Amboseli National Park

“Home of the African Elephant” Crowned by Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, the Amboseli National Parks is one of Kenya's most popular parks. The name "Amboseli" comes from a Maasai word meaning "salty dust", and it is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Nature lovers can explore five different habitats here ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and woodlands. They can also visit the local Maasai community who live around the park and experience their authentic culture.

Park Activities

  • Bird Watching

  • Camping

  • Game Viewing

  • Photography

  • Scenic Tours

How to Get There

  • By Road: The main access is from Nairobi via Namanga (240 km) on the Nairobi-Arusha Road through Meshanani Gate. Alternatively, from Nairobi via Emali (228 km) on the Nairobi-Mombasa Road. From Mombasa, access is primarily through Tsavo West National Park via Kimana (Olkelunyiet) Gate.

  • By Air: The park has one airstrip for light aircraft at Empusel Gate. Additional airstrips are available at Kilimanjaro Buffalo Lodge and Namanga town.

Attractions

  • Large herds of elephants

  • Mt. Kilimanjaro

  • The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo)

  • Observation Hill, offering panoramic views of the park, particularly the swamps and elephants

  • Swamps below Observation Hill, home to elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and waterfowl such as pelicans and Egyptian geese

  • Contemporary Maasai culture and indigenous lifestyle

Accommodation

  • Kibo Camp

  • Kilima Camp

  • Sentrim

What to Bring

  • Drinking water, picnic items, and camping equipment for overnight stays

  • Recommended: binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and guidebooks

Highlights

  • Known as the “Home of the African Elephant”

  • Located at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak

  • Famous for up-close views of large elephant herds

  • Name “Amboseli” means salty dust in the Maasai language

  • Offers five diverse habitats: dry lakebed, wetlands with sulphur springs, savannah, and woodlands

  • Opportunity to experience authentic Maasai culture

  • Activities: bird watching, game viewing, camping, photography, and scenic viewing

  • Accessible by road from Nairobi via Namanga (240 km) or Emali (228 km), and from Mombasa via Tsavo West

  • Has a main airstrip at Empusel Gate and others near Kilimanjaro Buffalo Lodge & Namanga town

  • Accommodation: Kibo Camp, Kilima Camp, and Sentrim

  • Recommended to carry: water, picnic/camping gear, binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and guidebooks