Amboseli

Amboseli national park

Amboseli National Park,  The name “Amboseli” comes from a Maasai word meaning “salty dust”, and it is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Nature lovers can explore five different habitats here ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and woodlands.  They can also visit the local Maasai community who live around the park and experience their authentic culture.

Location of Amboseli

Amboseli National Park is located in Loitoktok District, Rift Valley Province of Kenya. Amboseli has an endless underground water supply filtered through thousands of feet of volcanic rock from Kilimanjaro’s ice cap, which funnel into two clear water springs in the heart of the park.

When to go Amboseli

The best wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June – October). This is the time the animals flock to the marshes, lakes and other water holes. And so will you for the cool shade and to discover the wildlife.

Attractions in Amboseli

  • Large Herds of Elephants
  • Mt. Kilimanjaro
  • Big Five
  • Observation Hill which allows an overall view of the whole park especially the swamps and elephants,
  • Swamp below observation hill hosts many elephants, buffaloes, hippos and a variety of water fowls like pelican, Egyptian goose
  • Contemporary Maasai culture and indigenous lifestyle

Wildlife of amboseli

The park is famous for being the best place in the world to get close to free-ranging elephants.[4] Other attractions of the park include opportunities to meet Maasai and visit a Maasai village. The park also has views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

Accommodation at Amboseli

KWS Self Catering

Kilimanjaro Guest House
Simba Cottages
Chui Cottages

Campsites

Amboseli Campsite

Privately Owned Lodges

Oltukai Lodge
Amboseli Serena Lodge
Tortilis Tented Lodge
AA Amboseli lodge
Kibo safari Camp
Manjaro Tented Camp
Amboseli sopa lodge.
 

How to get  amboseli

  • By Road: The main road into the park is from Nairobi via Namanga (240 km) on the Nairobi – Arusha Road, through Meshanani Gate. The other road is from Nairobi via Emali (228 km) on the Nairobi – Mombasa Road. Access from Mombasa is mainly through Tsavo West National Park via Kimana (Olkelunyiet) Gate.
  • By Air: Airstrips: The park has a single airstrip for light aircrafts at Empusel gate. Other airstrips exist at Kilimanjaro Buffalo Lodge and Namanga town

Things to do and see in Amboseli 

The elephants

With its reputation for active elephant sighting it’s easy to spot them roaming the plains in the morning and evenings. And during much of the day you can observe them splashing and foraging in Ol Okenya Swamp

Elephant Research Camp

The elephants at Amboseli live a rich and protected life. But they are also keenly studied, thanks to the pioneering work of Dr. Cynthia Moss. Echo, the most researched of the elephants, was the subject of numerous books and documentaries and studied for almost 40 years by Dr. Moss.

Observation Hill at amboseli 

With its pyramid shape this is a unique spot. It’s also one of the few spots in the park where you can get out of your safari vehicle and just walk. At the summit, take in the plains, marshes, lakes and roads below. You’ll see wonderful views of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the south and the great swamps to the east.

Sinet Delta at amboseli 

Not far from Observation Hill, take a northern road to the Sinet Delta for excellent birdwatching. As you turn south be on the lookout for giraffes foraging in the thicker brush. And some wonderful views of Kilimanjaro.

Maasai People of Amboseli

There are several Maasai communities around Amboseli Park. If you wish, your guide can arrange a visit to see and meet these authentic nomadic people and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
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