Amboseli safari from Nairobi is arguably the most famous park in Kenya
The amboseli safari from Nairobi is arguably the most famous park in Kenya – it is where those classic postcard pictures of elephant herds against the backdrop of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, were taken. But it is far more than a photo opportunity and offers visitors a window into the way of life of the expeditions maasai safaris people who inhabit the area around the park.
The park is renowned for its large herds of free-ranging elephants and this is one of the best places in the world to see them, with the tuskers unfazed by vehicles and allowing close-up encounters. It is also home to a variety of other wildlife, from zebra and wildebeest to giraffes and gazelles. The park is divided into five different wildlife habitats ranging from the dried lakebed of Lake Amboseli to wetlands, savannah and woodlands. Birdlife is also rich with a diversity of species including pelicans, kingfishers, crakes and egrets as well as 47 types of raptor.
Mammals are the main attraction here and herds of up to 100 animals can be seen, depending on the season. Besides the elephants, other big game to be found in Amboseli include buffalo, lion, leopard and cheetah. Other species include hyenas, spotted and plains jackal, topis, dikdik and gazelles.
Amboseli is the best place in Africa to see elephants, with their huge herds and impressive size. It’s the kind of place that’s easy to visit with a short trip from Nairobi, but is likely to leave an impression on you for years to come. Wildebeest migration safari packages
The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October, when waterholes are easier to spot and the grass is low. But a visit at other times of year is still very rewarding.
There are several tour companies that offer tours to Amboseli, which can be booked as a two-day/one-night excursion from Nairobi. These usually include transportation in a small pop-top 4×4 safari vehicle, entrance fees and accommodation. Amboseli can also be visited as part of a longer safari to Northern Tanzania, combining with the likes of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro parks. Budget tours often include a stay at an overnight lodge inside the park. These tend to be more basic than higher-end hotels but are still comfortable and offer great views over the wilderness and scenic landscapes. These are a good option for travelers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They are ideal for first-time safari goers or those with limited time. They are typically operated in conjunction with local Maasai guides. These are a much more authentic experience than those operating from larger Nairobi-based tour companies. Many budget tours also include air transfers between destinations, avoiding long road transfers. The shortest flights between Wilson Airport and the Amboseli airstrip take less than an hour in a light aircraft. These are offered by several airlines including Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania and Safarilink.
