Amboseli National Park Travel Essentials
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"Where Majestic Elephants Roam Free"
Amboseli National Park Tourism
Amboseli National Park is located in southern Kenya, near the border with Tanzania. It is situated approximately 240 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. The park is known for its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, which lies just across the border in Tanzania. Amboseli National Park covers an area of about 392 square kilometers and is home to a large herds of elephants, considered some of Africa's largest.
In addition to elephants, Amboseli is home to a wide variety of other wildlife and big 5, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and a plethora of bird species. Visitors to Amboseli have the unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close, observing their social interactions and witnessing their bathing rituals in the park's numerous waterholes.
Entry Fees To The Amboseli National Park
Citizen: Adult – KSH 860, Child – KSH 215
Resident: Adults – KSH 860, Child – KSH 215
Non-Resident: Adults – KSH 60, Child – KSH 35
Entrance Gate & Timings of The Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park in Kenya has four main entrance gates:
- Kimana Gate: Located in the northeastern part of the park, Kimana Gate is closest to the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is approximately 233 kilometres (about 145 miles) from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. This gate is a popular choice for visitors coming from Nairobi and those who wish to explore the northern region of the park.
- Meshanani Gate: Situated in the northern region of Amboseli National Park, Meshanani Gate is closest to Ol Tukai Lodge. This gate is approximately 250 kilometres (about 155 miles) from Nairobi. Visitors staying at Ol Tukai Lodge or those interested in exploring the northern part of the park can opt for this entry point.
- Kitirua Gate: Located in the eastern part of the park, Kitirua Gate is closest to the popular Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge. It is about 228 kilometres (approximately 142 miles) from Nairobi. Travellers planning to stay at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge or explore the eastern areas of the park can use this gate.
- Iremito Gate: Situated in the western region of Amboseli National Park, Iremito Gate is closest to Kilima Safari Camp. It is about 260 kilometres (approximately 162 miles) from Nairobi.
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Things to do in Amboseli National Park
1. Game Drives Safari
Game drives are the most popular safari activity in Amboseli. Experienced safari guides accompany you in specially equipped vehicles, providing insights into the animals' behaviour, natural history, a (Read More)nd conservation efforts. Morning game drives typically start around 6:30 AM and last for approximately 3-4 hours, taking advantage of animals' increased activity levels during cooler hours. Afternoon game drives usually begin around 3:30 PM and also last for about 3-4 hours, allowing you to witness the wildlife as they prepare for the evening.
2. Walking Safaris
Walking safaris typically last 2-3 hours and provide an opportunity to explore the park on foot, accompanied by trained guides. These safaris offer a more intimate and immersive experience, allowing y (Read More)ou to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem, identify tracks and signs, and learn about the flora and fauna from a closer perspective. Note that walking safaris have designated times and restrictions for safety purposes.
3. Birdwatching Safaris
With over 400 bird species, the park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Optimal bird-watching times are early morning and late afternoon when bird activity is high. The duration of the safari can vary, (Read More)but a typical bird-watching session lasts around 2-3 hours. Expect to spot a diverse range of bird species, including flamingos, eagles, pelicans, and migratory birds. Binoculars and a bird identification guide are recommended.
4. Hot Air Balloon Safari
Lasting approximately one to two hours, these safaris take place early in the morning, just before sunrise. Participants board the balloon and ascend into the sky, offering panoramic views of the sava (Read More)nnah, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the surrounding scenery. From the air, you can observe herds of animals roaming the plains, spot elephants and other wildlife from a bird's-eye view, and capture stunning photographs. After the flight, a champagne breakfast is typically served.
5. Lake Amboseli
Lake Amboseli, located in the western part of the park, is a seasonal lake that offers wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities. Visitors can reach the lake by driving along the park's roads an (Read More)d engaging in game drives to spot elephants, buffaloes, and diverse bird species. The best time to visit is during early mornings or late afternoons for optimal wildlife sightings and photography.
6. Night Safaris
Some lodges and camps in Amboseli offer night safaris, which provide a unique opportunity to witness the nocturnal activities of wildlife. Accompanied by trained guides, visitors can explore the park (Read More)after sunset using spotlights and specialized equipment to spot elusive creatures such as aardvarks, nightjars, and other nocturnal animals.
7. Sundowner Experience
The sundowner experience in Amboseli National Park offers visitors the chance to enjoy drinks while watching the sunset in a scenic location within the park. This activity is organized by lodges and c (Read More)amps in the park.
8. Observation Hills
Observation Hill in Amboseli National Park offers panoramic views of the park and its diverse wildlife. A short hike to the top allows visitors to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets, perfect for ph (Read More)otography. Spending around 30-45 minutes for the hike and an additional hour at the summit is recommended. The best time to visit is early mornings and late afternoons for optimal lighting conditions.
9. Maasai Villages
Located on the outskirts of Amboseli National Park, Maasai villages offer a chance to experience the unique culture and traditions of the Maasai people by engaging with the locals, learning about thei (Read More)r way of life, and participating in cultural exchanges during the recommended 1–2-hour visit. For an authentic encounter, consider visiting during the mornings or early evenings.
10. Enkongo Narok Swamp
In the eastern part of the park, near Observation Hill, you'll find the Enkongo Narok Swamp. This lush area attracts diverse wildlife, including elephants and numerous bird species, making it perfect (Read More)for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Spending 1-2 hours here allows ample time for observation and photography. For the best experience, visit during early mornings or late afternoons when animals gather at the swamp to quench their thirst.
11. Kimana Observation Point
The Kimana Observation Point, near Kimana Gate at the park's northeastern boundary, offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. It's perfect for photography and sightseei (Read More)ng. Spending 30 minutes to an hour here is recommended. The best time to visit is early morning for clear and unobstructed views.
12. Amboseli Elephant Research Camp
The Amboseli Elephant Research Camp focuses on elephant study and conservation. Travellers can join guided tours to learn about elephant behaviour, research, and conservation efforts. It is advised to (Read More) allocate 1-2 hours for the visit, and early morning or late afternoon offers the best chance to see active elephants.
Must Know Before You Travel to Amboseli National Park
- All park gates are open all year round from 06:00 AM to 07:00 PM.
- All the safaris and activities in the park are charged additionally and pre-booking of the safaris is advised, especially during the peak time of June to October.
- One can also choose to explore the park in their own vehicle except for the safaris. If self-driving, prefer a 4x4 vehicle
- Before visiting, consult your doctor for necessary vaccinations and anti-malaria medication.
- Bring a reusable water bottle as single-use plastic is prohibited in Amboseli National Park.
- You can get your Safari card issued or recharged at the Iremito Gate which is the Point-of-Sale (POS) / Point-of-Issue (POI) in the park.
- When staying inside the park, the accommodation options are fewer, and more expensive as you have to pay the park fees every day.
- Make sure you carry enough cash on hand before entering the park for expenses as ATMs are not readily available in the Park.
- Pets are not allowed in Amboseli National Park.
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Wildlife at the Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is famous for its large herds of African elephants, along with the Big Five (leopard, lion, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant). The park also teems with large herbivores like blue wildebeest, impala, Masai Giraffe, Grant’s zebra, and gazelles. Predators like leopards, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, and wild dogs add to the excitement. Additionally, Amboseli is home to reptiles such as crocodiles, snakes, and lizards, adding to the park's overall biodiversity.
Bird enthusiasts can spot over 600 bird species. Among them are water birds like the African swamphen, greater flamingo, and rufous-bellied heron. Raptors include the Dickinson’s kestrel and Von der Decken's hornbill, while ground birds like the Eurasian thick-knee, Hartlaub’s bustard, and long-toed lapwing roam the savannah. Visitors can also spot unique species such as the Pangani longclaw, rufous chatterer, spike-heeled lark, steel-blue whydah, Taveta golden weaver (NE), and white-bellied go-away bird.
Bird enthusiasts can spot over 600 bird species. Among them are water birds like the African swamphen, greater flamingo, and rufous-bellied heron. Raptors include the Dickinson’s kestrel and Von der Decken's hornbill, while ground birds like the Eurasian thick-knee, Hartlaub’s bustard, and long-toed lapwing roam the savannah. Visitors can also spot unique species such as the Pangani longclaw, rufous chatterer, spike-heeled lark, steel-blue whydah, Taveta golden weaver (NE), and white-bellied go-away bird.
Tips
- It is advised to pack and carry your meals before going on safaris. Some resorts also pack that for you.
- As a general guideline, a tip of around 10-15% of the total cost or a few dollars per day is customary to tip safari guides, drivers, and other staff members.
- Visitors are not expected or required to make donations during cultural visits to the villages as financial arrangements are already in place with tour operators and lodges.
- It is advisable to refrain from smoking while inside the park premises due to the fire risk it poses.
- Tap water in Amboseli National Park is generally not considered potable and hence, it is recommended to drink bottled water or use water purification methods, such as boiling or using water purification tablets, to ensure your safety.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities or religious sites, and seek permission before taking photographs of people. Wear muted colours like grey, browns and olive green.
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