About Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is a renowned wildlife conservation area located in the southern part of Kenya, near Tanzania border. This small but rewarding safari destination covers an area of 392 square kilometers and is home to a plethora of wildlife species, including over 80 species of mammals and over 400 bird species.
What sets it apart is the fact that it is set against a backdrop of looming Mount Kilimanjaro; the tallest mountain in Africa. ‘Amboseli’ is an English corruption of the Maa word Empusel which means “salty, dry place”. The park is famous for being home to a large number of wild African elephants that roam free in a serene natural setting with a rewarding view of an ice-capped mountain.
Wildlife Highlights
Amboseli is world-famous for its impressive elephant population, making it one of the best places to observe African elephants up close in their natural habitat. Elephants here are known for their sociable behavior, often moving in family groups led by a matriarch, and displaying intricate social bonds. Due to conservation efforts, Amboseli’s elephants are among the most studied in the world, with some having distinct personalities and names known to researchers. This makes it possible to learn more about the elephants’ behavior, life cycles, and critical role in Amboseli’s ecosystem.
Big Five
The park is also home to the other Big Five species: lions, rhinos, buffalos, and leopards. These iconic animals are some of Africa’s most celebrated species and are often what visitors to Amboseli hope to see, especially in their natural interactions with one another.
Bird Watching
Amboseli is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. There are over 400 bird species that have been recorded in the park, including both resident and migratory birds. The variety of bird species and the colorful displays during migration make birdwatching in Amboseli an enriching experience. This another Amboseli highlight that makes it worth exploring.
Other Animals
Beyond the Big Five, Amboseli boasts wildlife a-plenty. Giraffes gracefully move across the plains, using their long necks to browse on acacia trees, while zebras roam in large herds, often mingling with wildebeests. These two species often migrate in tandem, as they share similar grazing habitats. There are also other animals including hyenas, monkeys, jackals, cheetahs, just to mention a few.
Best Time to Visit
Amboseli National Park is a year-round destination but certain times are better for wildlife viewing because of seasonal changes.
Seasons: Dry vs. Wet
June to October and January to February is the best time for wildlife viewing as it is dry season. Animals are easier to spot as they tend to gather around water sources. During this period, vegetation is sparse, improving visibility and offering clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
In contrast, November to December and March to May is wet season. This makes the park a lush, green landscape, attracting migratory birds and creating beautiful scenery but can make wildlife more dispersed and harder to spot.
Migration Patterns
Amboseli isn’t known for a large-scale migration like the Maasai Mara, but seasonal changes do affect animal movements within the park. During the dry season, elephants, buffalo, and other animals move toward the park’s swamps and marshes, providing excellent viewing opportunities. In the wet season, animals spread out as water becomes more available, though birdwatching is at its peak with an influx of migratory species.
Climate Considerations
Amboseli’s temperatures are relatively warm year-round with a range of 20°C to 30°C during the day, though mornings and nights can be cooler. The dry season provides more moderate and comfortable conditions, while the wet season may bring higher humidity and occasional rain showers. The dry season is most preferred for both ease of travel and optimal safari experiences, but the park’s beauty and wildlife are accessible in any season.
Safari Activities
Game Drives
If you want to explore Amboseli, a guided game drive is a must-do, with morning and evening game drives allowing you to spot as many species as possible. Early morning drives offer a chance to catch animals in action as they’re most active during cooler hours, while evening drives provide stunning views as the sun sets behind Mount Kilimanjaro.
Guided Walking Safaris
Guided walking safaris provide a more intimate experience as you explore the park on foot under the guidance of trained rangers. These safaris are a great way to learn about the smaller details of the eco system which are often missed on game drives.
Birding Tours
Amboseli has over 400 bird species which make it a paradise for bird lovers. If you are interested in spotting and learning about the park’s diverse avian life, this tour is certainly for you. Birding tours are available year-round but are especially rewarding during the wet season when migratory birds arrive.
Cultural Visits
A safari in Amboseli is incomplete without a cultural visit to a local Maasai village. The Maasai people are an integral part of the Amboseli landscape and have a long-standing relationship with the land and its wildlife. You can experience traditional Maasai customs, including dances, songs, and crafts, and gain insight into the Maasai’s sustainable lifestyle and their role in conservation.
Where to Stay
Here is a few accommodation options in Amboseli National Park:
- Tier 1(Luxury)
- Tortilis Camp
- Elewana’s Collection Sand River Lodge
- Ol Tukai Lodge
2. Tier 2(Mid-Range)
- Kibo Safari Camp
- Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
- Sentrim Amboseli Lodge
3. Tier 3(Budget-Friendly)
- AA Lodge Amboseli
- Kimana Amboseli Tented Camp
- Amboseli Eco Camp
