Amboseli National Park Travel Guide
Meet Africa’s super-tuskers in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro
Amboseli National Park is a hidden secret in Kenya’s safari landscape- a small park that punches above its weight.
While most travellers come here in search of Africa’s last remaining ‘super-tuskers’, often viewed against the backdrop of Africa’s highest peak, game drives here offer so much more.
Abundant plains game supports healthy populations of predators, and on daily game drives you’ll discover a remarkable landscape of fever tree forests, sweeping plains, and towering volcanic peaks. This is Kenya as you’ve never seen it before.
At Amboseli, both the landscape and the wildlife compete for your gaze. While the super-tuskers are a remarkable sight, the park’s wide-open grasslands support an incredible diversity of animal life. Observation Hill offers sweeping views of Amboseli’s wetlands and seasonal swamps. The abundance of water also makes Amboseli a haven for birdlife, with more than 400 species identified in the park. Guided visits to nearby Maasai villages offer authentic insights into the local culture and traditions.
While on safari in Amboseli, most meals will be enjoyed at your lodge or luxury tented camp. Expect gourmet bush breakfasts, al fresco lunches, and candlelit dinners under the stars. Many camps and lodges offer curated dining experiences, from private picnics on the plains to sundowners overlooking Kilimanjaro. Guests staying near Amboseli’s gateway town, Kimana, can ask to explore local eateries serving authentic Kenyan cuisine.
Dietary requirements and preferences are gladly accommodated. Please advise at the time of reservation.
Comfort is key when packing for a safari in Amboseli, so aim for light, breathable clothing in neutral colours for safari drives and daytime activities. A warm jacket is essential for early morning game drives, and a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a high-SPF sunscreen are recommended for protection from the African sun. Pack comfortable walking shoes for cultural excursions and short bush walks. Since lodges are located in remote areas, ensure you have enough prescription medication and personal essentials for your stay.
The dry season in Amboseli (June to October, and January to February) is the best time for wildlife viewing, offering clear skies and mild temperatures. During this time, animals gather around available water sources, ensuring excellent sightings. The wet seasons (March to May and November to December) create lush landscapes and attract fewer tourists, though some areas may become inaccessible due to muddy conditions. This may be the tropics, but mornings and evenings can be chilly, particularly in the cooler months, while midday temperatures remain warm year-round.
Amboseli lies within a malaria-risk area. While the risk is lower during the dry season, travelers are advised to take anti-malarial prophylactics and use insect repellent to prevent being bitten. Consult your travel doctor before departure.
Where is Amboseli in Kenya? This handy map will help.
Amboseli is easily accessible on charter flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. Flying time is approximately 40 minutes. Road transfers from Nairobi take around five hours, offering a scenic journey through rural Kenya.
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