Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is located in Southern part of Kenya in Kajaido district covering an area of about 365 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. In fact, the park derives its names from a Masai word meaning ‘’Salty dust’ in relation to the terrain in the park. Amboseli is popularly known for having the highest population of African wild elephants which are inhabitants of the open plains, acacia woodlands and marsh land making it a great stopping area for world research about elephants. In addition, the park offers great views of the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro- the highest free-standing mountain in the world hence making it one of Kenya’s most popular parks. Furthermore, the park is comprised of wetlands, savannah marsh and woodland that support wide range of wildlife species such as; leopards, hyenas, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, antelopes, monkey species, peacocks, Ostriches, different bird species among others. Besides, the park provides a great cultural experience where you can meet some of the Maasai and visit a traditional village.

What to do in Amboseli National Park

Guided game drives

Amboseli is a home to over 1000 animal species thus making it the best game viewing location and the best-done activity in the park in the game drive where you expect to see lots of wildlife species. These include; leopards, hyenas, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, antelopes, monkey species, peacocks, Ostriches, elephants, serval cat, foxes, hippos, Kudu, African wild dogs, baboons, Caracal, duiker, cheetah, waterbuck, etc. Game drives in Amboseli are conducted all day long but the most rewarding drive is the early morning game drive from 6:30am to 11:30am. On the other hand, one can still opt for the evening game drive that runs from 2:00pm to 6:30pm when animals are gathering on the water banks quenching for thirsty. Visit Amboseli National Park and have great views of the wildlife in the area.

Cultural Encounter

A visit to the Masai culture is also one of the interesting activities that draws tourist to the park for a life time experience. Whilst here, tourists get to learn more about their unique life styles, clothing, interesting dances as they jump up and down and folk songs and stories. Therefore, upon your visit to the park, Cultural experience shouldn’t be missed.

Bird Watching

This Park is surely a birder’s paradise with over 400 bird species which can be spotted along the swamp areas, acacia woodlands and grassland. These include; Yellow-necked spur fowl, Long-toed lapwing, Love birds, Lesser flamingo. Eurasian thick knee, African swamp, White-bellied go way bird, Starlings, Crowned cranes. Pangani, Steel-blue whydah, Secretary birds, Heron, Von der decken’s hornbill. Hartaub’s bustard, Water birds, pelicans, crakes, kingfishers, not to mention but a few. To emphasize, birding is best done during the rainy season and when the migratory bird species are present in the area from the month of March to May and around November. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars for a clear sight of birds at a far distance.

Lake Amboseli Visit

This lake has existed for decades even before the establishment of Amboseli national park and it’s where the park drives its name. Lake Amboseli acts as a supportive water source to the wildlife in the area and also a cooling place for the sun-bathing elephants. Therefore, tourist who visit this place can enjoy a boat cruise on the Lake which is worth experiencing.

Hot air Balloon experience

Basically, this activity is conducted very early in the morning and it’s one of the most rewarding activities in the area whereby tourists are able to fly the skies of the park. During this interesting activity, travelers get a chance of getting a nice clear view of wildlife. These include; buffalos, different birds, herds of elephants, the plains and vegetation among others. Don’t forget to carry your Cameras for taking pictures for memories and binoculars for a clear sight.

How to get to the Park

By road; Amboseli national park can be easily accessed from Nairobi the major city of Kenya which takes approximately 4-5 hours. From Nairobi to Meshanani Gate, drive via Isinya and down the Magadi Road in Nairobi. It’s advisable to use 4×4 wheel drive.

By Air; Charter flights from Nairobi Wilson airport and Moi airport in Mombasa can fly you to the park in less than 1 hour.