Amboseli National Park, located in southern Kenya, is a premier wildlife destination renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Covering approximately 392 square kilometers, the park offers visitors unparalleled opportunities to experience Africa's iconic wildlife against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, the continent's highest peak.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Amboseli is celebrated for its large herds of African elephants, often seen traversing the plains with Mount Kilimanjaro towering in the background. In addition to elephants, the park is home to four members of the "Big Five": lions, leopards, and buffaloes. Other species include cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and numerous antelope species. Bird enthusiasts can delight in over 400 bird species recorded in the area, making it a significant birding destination. citeturn0search0

Key Attractions

  • Mount Kilimanjaro Views: The snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro provides a majestic backdrop, especially during early mornings and late afternoons, offering perfect photographic opportunities.

  • Observation Hill (Nomatior): This vantage point offers panoramic views of the entire park, including its swamps, plains, and wildlife. It's an ideal spot for visitors to appreciate the park's diverse ecosystems.

  • Swamps and Springs: Fed by underground rivers from Mount Kilimanjaro's melting snow, the park's swamps, such as Enkong Narok Swamp, are vital habitats for wildlife, especially during dry seasons.

  • Maasai Cultural Experiences: Visitors can engage with the local Maasai communities, learning about their traditions, visiting their villages (manyattas), and purchasing handcrafted souvenirs.

Activities

  • Game Drives: Explore the park's diverse habitats and observe wildlife in their natural settings.

  • Bird Watching: With its rich avian diversity, Amboseli is a haven for bird watchers.

  • Photography: The combination of wildlife and scenic landscapes makes it a photographer's paradise.

  • Cultural Visits: Immerse yourself in Maasai culture through organized village tours.

Accommodation

Amboseli National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:

  • KWS Self-Catering Facilities: Managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service, these include:

    • Kilimanjaro Guest House: Accommodates up to 7 people with amenities such as a furnished sitting area, DSTV, kitchen, and bathrooms.

    • Kilimanjaro Annex: Suitable for 4 people, featuring two bedrooms, kitchen facilities, and bathrooms.

    • Simba and Chui Cottages: Each unit accommodates 2 people and includes a kitchenette and necessary amenities.

    Reservations can be made through the park warden or KWS headquarters. citeturn0search0

  • Privately Owned Lodges:

    • Ol Tukai Lodge: Offers luxury accommodation with modern amenities.

    • Amboseli Serena Lodge: Provides upscale lodging with cultural decor and excellent services.

    Additionally, there are several other lodges, tented camps, and hotels located just outside the park boundaries.

Park Entry Fees

As of the latest information, the park entry fees are categorized based on residency status:

  • Non-Residents:

    • Adults: $60 USD per 24 hours

    • Children: $35 USD per 24 hours

  • Residents and Citizens:

    • Adults: KSH 860

    • Children: KSH 215

Payments can be made through the eCitizen platform via MPesa, Visa Card, RTGS, or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). citeturn0search0

Vehicle Entry Fees

Vehicle charges per day are as follows:

  • Less than 6 seats: KSH 300

  • 6-12 seats: KSH 1,030

  • 13-24 seats: KSH 2,585

  • 25-44 seats: KSH 4,050

  • 45 seats and above: KSH 5,000

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How to Get There

  • By Road: Amboseli is accessible through multiple gates:

    • Iremito Gate: Via Emali on the Nairobi-Mombasa road, then turning onto the Emali-Loitokitok road.

    • Kimana Gate: Continuing on the Loitokitok road to Kimana town, then following signs to the gate.

    • Meshanani Gate: Accessible via Nairobi-Namanga road.

  • By Air: The park has a tarmacked airstrip, Kimana Airstrip, suitable for light aircraft.

Park Rules and Regulations

To ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife, the following rules are enforced:

 

  • Driving is permitted between 6 am and 6 pm only.

  • The speed limit within the park is 50 km/h.

  • Animals have the right of way; do not disturb or harass them.

  • Feeding animals is prohibited.