Amboseli National Park is the second most visited park after the Masai Mara. Famed for the classic photographic image of elephants walking in front of snow capped Kilimanjaro, this is still one of the main attractions that Amboseli National Park holds and a big reason for its visitors. Mount Kilimanjaro is actually across the border in Tanzania. But Amboseli offers some of the best views of Africa’s highest mountain.
Amboseli National Park is well placed and has easy access to Nairobi. This makes it a convenient stop on any Kenyan Itinerary. You can drive from Nairobi or there are flights into the small Amboseli Airport. This reserve combines well with trips to Arusha, where you can connect to your Tanzanian safari.
Aside from awesome views, Amboseli also has a healthy wildlife population. It is one of the few places in East Africa where your chances of seeing endangered Black Rhino are high. A good elephant and lion population, and already you have crossed off 3 of the Big 5! Amboseli and surrounds has some excellent accommodation options.
If you are looking for a conserving way of life Great Plains Conservation operates Ol Donyo Lodge on the slopes of Chyulu Hills between Amboseli and Tsavo National Park. Tortilis Camp, with Kilimanjaro as its back drop, is in an Acacia Tortilis woodland within the park. This luxury tented camp takes you back to a “real safari” experience.
The intimate Porini Camp operates in a private concession bordering Amboseli. The Serena Hotel group has some super family options. Browse through some of our East African Family Safari Tours for ideas.
Besides waiting for that perfect photo of Kilimanjaro (best done at sunrise when the mountain is usually clear) game drives are a highlight. Morning and evening drives are usually available. If your lodge operates in a private concession then night drives are usually available. The local Masai community is very involved and visits to Villages are a great way to learn about local culture.
