Of Chows and Dhows

Amboseli is incredibly beautiful and remains one of my favourite safari destinations in Kenya. The national park covers 392 km² and has a diverse ecosystem.

Why you should visit Amboseli National Park

There is a seasonal lake, swamps, thorny bushes, and some woodland. In addition to several species of both flora and fauna calling the national park home, it is home to large herds of elephants.

Last time I checked, they are over 900 thus gaining the name, The Land of the Giants, and rightfully so. The jewel of Amboseli’s crown has to be the breathtaking view of the majestic Mt.Kilimanjaro towering over the land.

Getting to Amboseli National Park

There are several ways to get to Amboseli National Park.

By Road

Amboseli National Park is located approximately 240 km southeast of Nairobi. The journey takes about 4-5 hours. You can either access the Park through Meshanani and Kimana Gates.

The Park is located approximately 390 km northwest of Mombasa. Access the Park through Iremito Gate.

By Train

Board the SGR County Train from Nairobi or Mombasa and alight at the Emali Station. From there you can hire a vehicle to the Park or have your accommodation make arrangements to pick you up. The distance between Emali and Amboseli is 133km (a 2-hour drive).

By Air

You can also fly to the Park using AirKenya or Safarilink.

Things to do in Amboseli

• Game Drives. The number one thing you must do while in Amboseli is go on game drives. Catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset, and identify the animals you spot( make a game out of spotting, naming, and counting them)- guaranteed you will come across a herd of elephants.
• If you are staying outside the Park you can visit the neighbouring Kimana Sanctuary and Elerai Conservation Area and enjoy a more private game drive experience.

• Hiking Observation Hill is also a must, the panoramic view of the park from the hilltop is incredible. The hike is quite short, less than an hour long and the terrain is easy as there are steps. The heat is the only thing you need to be wary of as you’ll be trekking directly under the sun. You get to see the swamp and wildlife roaming freely. 

• Cultural visits to Maasai villages can also be arranged by your accommodation of choice. Visit the Maasai communities resident in the Amboseli area to learn more about their way of life. Visit their houses(if they allow), jump and dance with them, and learn how to build a fire with nothing but sticks and dry cow dung. Support the communities by buying crafts from them.

• Savour the views of Africa’s highest peak, especially in the morning before it gets cloudy. Imagine going on a game drive and having the towering Mt Kilimanjaro as your backdrop! The view never gets old. 

• Is lounging in the lodge an activity? If so, add it to this list. Swim, eat, relax and enjoy the sunny days in Amboseli.

Where to stay in Amboseli

There are plenty of places to stay, ranging from budget to luxury either located inside or outside the Park. 

More options include:

KWS Self Catering–

Kilimanjaro Guest House, Simba Cottages, Chui Cottages

Campsites – Amboseli Campsite

Lodges–

• Ol Tukai Lodge
• Satao Elerai
• Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
• Tawi Lodge
• Kibo Safari Camp
• Amanya Camp

I hope the photos will inspire you to visit the land of the giants and fall in love with Amboseli as much as I did.

Indulge!

Amboseli PhotoDiary

The most graceful of creatures can be found roaming around the Amboseli National Park.

You can expect such a sight as the elephants move around. I am always amazed by these majestic animals! Did you know elephants are among the most intelligent species in the world?

Quick question, are zebras white with black stripes or black with white stripes? 

Expect 360-degree views of Mt Kilimanjaro on a clear day.

Sentrim Amboseli

I stayed at Sentrim Amboseli, a lovely Camp inside the Park.

Frequent camp visitors include Vervet monkeys(blue balls) and these furry guys.

Amboseli National Park Rates

Things you should know before visiting Amboseli National Park

• Amboseli is less than five hours from Nairobi.
• The Park is self-drive friendly. A 2WD can make it but a 4WD is preferable, especially during the rains.
• Cash is not allowed at the National Park gates so ensure you load your MPesa wallet or carry your card.
• Single-use plastics are not allowed. If you do carry some, make sure you keep them and carry them back with you.
• Amboseli is hot. Carry sunscreen with you and light, breathable clothes for day time. Evenings do get chilly and a jacket would suffice. Carry comfortable hiking shoes, if you plan on trekking Observation Hill.
• Game drive etiquette- Stay in your vehicle, avoid making loud noises, do not get close to the animals or feed them, and do not litter.
• On cultural visits- respect the communities you visit. Do not take photos of the people without their consent. Giving children cash is discouraged. 

For more information about Amboseli check out http://www.amboseli.com/

The next time you’re planning a Kenyan safari, Amboseli should definitely top your list.

Feel free to reach out to me to help you plan a similar trip to Amboseli National Park.

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Stay winning and tembea Kenya!