Attraction Description

Amboseli National Park is in southern Kenya. It’s known for its large elephant herds and views of immense Mount Kilimanjaro, across the border in Tanzania. Observation Hill offers panoramas of the peak and the park’s plains and swamps. Varied wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, cheetahs and hundreds of bird species. The western section is dominated by vast Lake Amboseli, which is dry outside the rainy season

Climate:

The park is generally hot and dry except during the rainy season. Average day time temperatures are a toasty 28oC/82oF.

When to go:

The park is open year-round and always accessible.

Best time to visit:

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.

Operating Hours:

The park is open from 06:00 hrs. to 18:00 hrs. daily.

Getting there:

By road – you can book a tour with Samson Tours and Safaris from Mombasa or Nairobi. Access from Mombasa is through Tsavo West National Park through the Kimana Gate.

Note: many of the park’s interior roads are unnavigable during the rainy season because the volcanic soil becomes too muddy.

By air – The park only features one air strip for light aircraft at the Empusel gate.

Things to do and see

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

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

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

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.