Amboseli National Park Safaris

Your Guide to Kenya's Wildlife Conservation Safari Destination

The Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s wildlife conservation areas. Popularly known for its large number of elephants, the Amboseli National Park is a great safari destination for outdoor families, couples, and organized groups.

Other than this park’s game views visiting tourists can enjoy the Big Five, Lemomo Hill, and rich Maasai culture. In addition, the park hosts over 400 bird species of which 40 are birds of prey.

Amboseli National Park Safari Packages

About The Amboseli National Park

Kenya's Wildlife Conservatory Safari Destination

Amboseli National Park, established in 1974, sprawls across 151 square miles (392 square kilometers) in southern Kenya, near the Tanzanian border. Located at the foot of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, the park sits at an elevation of approximately 3,900 feet (1,189 meters) above sea level.

The landscape is distinguished by its striking contrast between dusty plains and lush swamps fed by underground springs from Kilimanjaro’s melting snow. The park’s vegetation varies from open grasslands to yellow-barked acacia woodlands, while vast stretches of dried lake bed shimmer with heat mirages during dry seasons.

The park is renowned for its large herds of African elephants, with some of the largest tuskers remaining in Africa. Besides elephants, the park supports abundant wildlife including lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and over 400 species of birds, particularly around the park’s permanent swamps.

Park Location

Amboseli National Park is located approximately 150 miles (240 kilometers) southeast of Nairobi in Kajiado County, Kenya, along the border with Tanzania.

Getting There by Road:

To reach Amboseli National Park from Nairobi, take the Mombasa Road (A109) southeast towards Emali. At Emali, turn right onto the C102 road and follow it through Mashuru and Isara to reach the park’s Kimana Gate. The journey typically takes 4-5 hours by car.

Getting There by Air:

Several airlines operate daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli Airport, with a flight time of approximately 45 minutes. Charter flights can also be arranged. Upon arrival at Amboseli Airport, most lodges and camps provide transfer services to their facilities.

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Amboseli National Park Fees

What's the cost of Amboseli National Park Safaris?

Amboseli National Park Entry Fee

Adults: Non-residents pay $60 per day, while Kenyans pay KSH 860

Children: Non-residents pay $35 per day, while Kenyans pay KSH 215

*NB: Fees vary due to season of the year. Extra fees for vehicle entry, aircraft landing, ranger escort and camping may apply where applicable.

Entrance Fee payment is made to E-citizen via MPesa, Visa Card, RTGS, EFT.

Amboseli National Park Accommodation Costs

Luxury Lodges and Camps: $500–$2,000+ per person per night (e.g., Kilimanjaro Guest House, Kilimanjaro Annex).

Mid-Range Lodges: $150–$400 per person per night.

Budget Campsites: $50–$100 per person per night.

Amboseli National Park Car Rental Costs

By Road: Private transfers or self-drive in a 4×4 can cost $100–$400, depending on vehicle type and group size.

Amboseli National Park Activities Costs

Game Drives: Often included in accommodation costs.

Balloon Safaris: $400–$500 per person.

Masai Village Visits: $20–$30 per person.

Other Costs

Meals and drinks (if not included in your package).

Tips for guides and staff ($10–$20 per day is typical).

For a mid-range 3-day trip, you might spend $700–$1,500 per person, including park fees, accommodation, transport, and some activities. Luxury options can exceed $5,000.

Amboseli National Park Activities

Some Popular Amboseli National Park Safari Activities

Game Drives

Explore the vast savannah on guided game drives, available in the morning, afternoon, or as full-day excursions. These drives offer a chance to spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and other wildlife like cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras.

Night Game Drives

Some conservancies outside the reserve allow night drives, where you can spot nocturnal animals like hyenas, lions on the hunt, and elusive leopards under the cover of darkness.

Photography Tours

Perfect for photography enthusiasts, specialized tours focus on capturing the beauty of the wildlife, landscapes, and dramatic sunsets of the Mara.

Walking Safaris

Accompanied by a professional guide, walking safaris allow you to explore the bush on foot, offering a more intimate connection with nature and insights into smaller flora and fauna.

Bird Watching

With over 450 bird species in the reserve, including ostriches, lilac-breasted rollers, and eagles, the Maasai Mara is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Camping

Camp out in the open park with options for both private and shared camping grounds.

When to visit and what to carry

The best time to visit the Amboseli National Park

Optimal Wildlife Viewing: Dry conditions between June and October concentrate animals around water sources, making them easier to spot.

Clearer Weather: Less rainfall means better visibility and more comfortable game drives.

Less Crowds: While still a popular time, it may be slightly less crowded than the peak season.

What to carry

Clothing: Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing for game drives, warm layers for early mornings and evenings, and a waterproof jacket for unexpected rain.

Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or boots for safaris and sandals for relaxation.

Hat and Sunglasses: To protect against the strong African sun.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.

Camera and Binoculars: To capture stunning wildlife and landscapes and enhance game-viewing experiences.

Travel Documents: Passport, park entry confirmation, and relevant permits.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in the warm climate.

Medications: Any personal prescriptions, along with a basic first aid kit and antimalarial tablets (if recommended by your doctor).

Power Bank and Adapters: To keep devices charged during your trip.

Snacks: For long game drives or during travel to the park.

The Amboseli National Park is perfect for day trips and multi-day safaris

Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended wildlife adventure, Amboseli National Park offers something for everyone. This iconic Kenyan destination welcomes solo explorers, romantic couples, families seeking memorable experiences, and groups of friends eager to share the thrill of the African savanna.

Amboseli National Park Solo safaris:

Perfect for independent travelers seeking a personal and immersive wildlife adventure in the heart of the capital’s wildlife haven.

Amboseli National Park Couple (Honeymoon) safaris:

A romantic getaway offering intimate moments, luxury accommodations, and breathtaking safari experiences ideal for newlyweds.

Amboseli National Park Family Safaris:

A fun and educational experience designed for all ages, combining wildlife adventures with family-friendly activities and accommodations.

Amboseli National Park Corporate Safaris:

Tailored team-building experiences or retreats that blend thrilling wildlife encounters with relaxation and networking opportunities.

Amboseli National Park Friends Safaris:

Exciting group adventures filled with memorable safaris, shared experiences, and the thrill of exploring nature together.

What you can see

The Amboseli National Park is home to the a wide range of wildlife and countless other species of flora and fauna

Game Drives: Explore the park on guided game drives in comfortable vehicles, witnessing large herds of African elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, along with other wildlife including lions, zebras, and wildebeest.

Nature Walks: Take guided walks with Maasai guides to explore the park’s unique mix of swamps, dry plains, and woodlands while learning about local culture and wildlife.

Predators in Action: Lions, leopards, and hyenas can be spotted hunting across the open plains, particularly during early morning or late afternoon drives.

Birdlife: Over 400 species of birds, including pelicans, kingfishers, hammerkops, and 47 types of raptor species in the marshlands and plains.

Predators in Action: Lions, leopards, and hyenas can be spotted hunting across the open plains, particularly during early morning or late afternoon drives..

Diverse Wildlife: Buffalo, impala, gazelles, Maasai giraffes, and numerous plains game species.

Wetland Wildlife: Large populations of hippos and various waterfowl in the permanent swamps and wetlands that are fed by underground springs from Kilimanjaro.

Spectacular Views: Unmatched views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, especially clear during early mornings and late afternoons, creating perfect photo opportunities with wildlife in the foreground.

"In Amboseli National Park, where the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro casts a majestic presence, dawn awakens to a symphony of wildlife. Here, under the vast African sky, the drama of the savanna unfolds – elephants gather at the watering holes, cheetahs chase their prey across the open plains, and a kaleidoscope of birds fills the air with vibrant colors."

Accommodation around the Amboseli National Park

Here are some of the multiple accommodation facilities around the Amboseli National Park

Ultra-luxury Lodges ($1000+ per night)
  • Ol Tukai Lodge
  • Elewana Tortilis Camp
  • Angama Amboseli
Luxury Lodges ($500-1000 per night)
  • Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
  • Kibo Safari Camp
  • Amboseli Sopa Lodge
Mid-range Lodges ($200-500 per night)
  • Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge
  • Sentrim Amboseli Lodge
Budget-friendly Options (Under $200 Per Night)
  • Some tented camps located outside the park boundaries (specific names may vary)
Mobile Camping
  • Several operators offer mobile camping experiences where camps move with wildlife
  • These range from basic to luxury mobile setups
Conservancy Lodges (Located in private conservancies)
  • Tortilis Camp (within the Amboseli National Park)
Community-owned Lodges
  • Engaresero Camp (located near the park)

Key features that typically differentiate the categories:

  • Ultra-luxury: Private plunge pools, personal butlers, helicopter transfers available
  • Luxury: High-end amenities, excellent guiding, gourmet dining
  • Mid-range: Comfortable accommodation with good amenities and reliable service
  • Budget-friendly: Basic but comfortable amenities, shared game drives
  • Mobile camping: Various levels of comfort, more adventurous experience
  • Conservancy lodges: More exclusive game viewing, fewer vehicles
  • Community-owned: More authentic cultural experiences, direct community benefits

Book This Package

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Reach out:

For enquiries or bookings, write to info@baecation.co.ke. We’ll revert within 20 minutes during business hours.

Amboseli National Park FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About the Amboseli National Park

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