Amboseli National Park

Formerly known as Maasai Amboseli Game Reserve, the now Amboseli National Park is a relatively small reserve at just 392km² (243.58 miles), but still has ample to offer. Not only is Amboseli lauded for its large herds of elephants and being home to four of Africa's iconic Big 5, but it was also declared as part of the Amboseli UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve in 1991. Found just 200km south-east of the capital, Nairobi, Amboseli is the perfect place for a Kenya safari.

Amboseli was established as a national park in 1974 with its namesake, “Amboseli”, stemming from the Maa word Empusel, meaning ‘salty, dry place'. Explore each of its unique habitats ranging from open plains and acacia woodlands to wetlands with sulphur springs. Although it's said to placed second in popularity after the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, there are plenty of reasons to embark on an Amboseli National Park safari:

The Top Reasons To Visit Amboseli National Park:

1. Discover Amboseli’s ‘Red’ Elephants

Due to its semi-arid landscape and constant underground water supply from Kilimanjaro's ice cap, the park has natural springs that  attract a plethora of wildlife. While the park is home to some odd 300 species of game, the crowning jewel is the elephant population. Roughly 1600 elephants roam at any one time, with their population being one of the most extensively researched in the world.

The park was famous for the research done by Dr Cynthia Moss on an older matriarch, Echo, who guided her family through the worst drought in Amboseli's history. Having guided several generations of her family for 64 years, she passed of natural causes in 2009, leaving her herd to continue the legacy with the knowledge she imparted.

An Amboseli National Park safari can see guests admiring herds 50 to 100 strong. After playing in the water and cooling off during the day, the elephants can be seen spraying themselves with the dusty sand and soil, making them appear red.

2. Spot A Host Of Wildlife & Birdlife

Amboseli National Park in Kenya is famously home to four of the Big 5 – missing only rhinos – and an exciting collection of other wildlife including impala, herds of wildebeest and Burchell's or plains zebra, gazelle, topi, spotted hyena, giraffe, and even the elusive bat-eared fox. Keep an eye out for smaller species such as warthogs, jackals, and dik-dik.

Twitchers are in for a treat with over 400 species of bird to tick off, including a whopping 40 odd species of raptors. Keep a pair of binoculars on hand to spot a Martial eagle, African fish eagle, secretary bird, Dickinson's kestrel, Weaver Bird, African sacred ibis, and even the Madagascar Pond-heron.

3. Great For First-Timers & Return Travellers

With its compact size, Amboseli National Park is easily explored in two to three days, making it a fantastic spot for first-time safari goers. While it's entirely possible to visit a bigger park for a first safari, the beauty of a smaller reserve is the sheer concentration of wildlife. Embark on twice daily game drives and enjoy various sightings pointed out by expert trackers and guides.

As a smaller park, it's also easier to maintain and to keep an eye on all the wildlife who call it home without being invasive. For those who only have a day or two, Amboseli's prominent springs are always bound to entice a variety of game – and elephants are a certainty! Between sightings, travellers are treated to views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the world's tallest free-standing mountain, when it's not swathed by cloud. Morning game drives are often the best time to get a peek at its snow-covered peak.

4. Ample Accommodation Options

A wonderful variety of Amboseli lodges and camps await visitors to this compact but comprehensive national park. From more traditional, authentic camps to ultra-luxe lodges, there's something to suit every guest.

When To Visit Amboseli National Park in Kenya

The best time to visit Kenya depends on what activities you're looking to experience. Africa typically has the most rain in its summer months and, while beautiful,  can make game viewing more difficult due to higher vegetation. In contrast, the more dry winter months offer easier game viewing as vegetation is more sparse and wildlife seek out the available water sources.

High / Peak Season: June to October

• Best time for game viewing – grass is shorter which makes animals easier to spot and they don't stray too far from water sources.
• Mostly sunny with very little to no rain.

Low / Green Season: November to May

• The start of the green season sees shorter rains while the longer rains occur from April to May
• Photography opportunities are at their peak now thanks to lush greenery
• A fantastic time for bird watching
• While it's never guaranteed, this is the best time to view Kilimanjaro as rains settle any dust in the air

How To Get To Amboseli

Fortunately, due to its proximity to the capital city of Nairobi, Amboseli National Park is highly accessible. While it's possible to drive between the two, the easiest route is a short-haul flight from Wilson Airport to the Amboseli airstrip, which takes less than an hour in a light aircraft.

While Wilson Airport does not service international flights, it sees plenty of regional traffic, perfect for those looking to combine other African destinations. Have a look at all Kenya travel tips for more guidance.

Combine Amboseli With Other Popular Destinations

Amboseli safari tours are easily combined with other incredible African destinations, most notably Tanzania as they share a border. Explore the likes of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park and Arusha National Park or even the Ngorongoro Crater, the world's only intact volcanic caldera, a crater brimming with wildlife.

Alternatively, take a walk on the wild side and witness the Great Migration in Tanzania's flagship conservation area, Serengeti National Park. For the ultimate safari and beach combination, consider adding on Tanzanian destinations such as a Zanzibar Island holiday, Mnemba Island or Pemba Island are both great options too. On the Kenyan side, experience barefoot luxury while exploring the Lamu Archipelago.

Ready To Plan An Amboseli Safari Experience?

Are you ready to visit the wondrous wildlife and landscapes of Amboseli National Park? Whether one of our pre-planned tours has caught your attention or you wish to have your dream safari brought to life, our Africa Safari Experts are well-versed and ready to assist. Get in contact: