Amboseli National Park: An Overview
Location
Amboseli National Park is situated in Kenya’s southwest region, near the border with Tanzania and northwest of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Size
The park covers an area of 151 square miles.
History
Gazetted in 1974, Amboseli National Park was established to protect its unique ecosystem. In 1991, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large herds of elephants.
Entrance Fees & Permits
The entrance fee is USD 60-70 per person per day.
Hours of Operation
Amboseli National Park is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm.
Access
- By Road:The park is 135 miles from Nairobi, accessible via the Mombasa Road and C102, taking around three and a half hours. The park has four main gates: Meshanana, Iremito, Kimana, and Kitirua.
- By Air: Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli Airport take approximately 42 minutes over a distance of 96 miles.
- By Train: The Madaraka Express from Nairobi to Emali takes about 2.5 hours. From Emali, a road trip of 80 miles (2-3 hours) via the C102 towards Loitokitok leads to the park.
Weather & Climate
The dry winter months (late June to August) are ideal for visiting, offering mild conditions and optimal game viewing as grass levels are low. The park experiences short rains in November and December, and long rains from March to April, making animal sightings more challenging due to taller grass.
Avoiding Crowds
Visiting during the green season (October to early December) or mid to late May and early June can help avoid the crowds.
Value for Money
Amboseli offers diverse accommodation options and safari packages. Staying outside the park can provide more budget-friendly choices while still offering a great safari experience.
Popular Wildlife Sightings
Amboseli is famous for its elephant herds and the "Big Five." Visitors can also see a variety of plains game, including kudu, wildebeest, and dik-dik, as well as cheetahs and buffalo.
The Terrain
The park features diverse landscapes, from dusty savannas to seasonal lakes, wooded areas, swamps, and grasslands.
Game Drives
Game drives, conducted in open or enclosed 4×4 vehicles with pop-up roofs, typically occur early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Observation Hill offers panoramic views of the park.
Guided Walking Safaris
Qualified guides lead walking safaris, providing close-up views of plains game and distant predators. Observation Hill is a popular spot for taking in the park's expansive views. Many conservancies around Amboseli also offer walking safaris for guests staying in local lodges or camps.