Amboseli
Say elephants and Kenya and chances are you’ll end up in the iconic Amboseli National Park. Down south at the foot of Kilimanjaro you’ll experience a wild mix of nature and culture you won’t find anywhere else.
Spot elephants at Mount Kilimanjaro
Down in southern Kenya about four hours drive from the capital Nairobi you’ll find Amboseli. The park is famous for its postcard views of elephants grazing with the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro behind them. The land here is nourished by the melting snow from Africa’s highest peak and the acacia forests give shade to big herds of wildlife from the blazing sun. The Maasai community is still very present here and in 1991 the park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its unique balance between conservation and local life.
Things to do around Amboseli
The name Amboseli should already gives it away, this is where you come to spot wildlife.
Amboseli National Park
When you think of Amboseli National Park you picture huge elephants wandering across the plains with Kilimanjaro towering in the distance. The park sits in southeastern Kenya right on the border with Tanzania. In this easy to explore area you can go on safari yourself or hop in a jeep with one of our local partners to track down wildlife. What you’ll definitely see out here are elephants and birds. Because of the wildlife population and bird migration this paradise is best visited outside the rainy season.
Motorbike safari in the conservancy
Over eight years old? Then you can jump on a motorbike safari just outside the park. Amboseli doesn’t have fences so you’ve got the same chance of spotting wildlife as inside the park. Ride along with a local who knows exactly how to keep a safe distance from the animals. During this two hour ride you’ll watch the sun slowly disappear behind Kilimanjaro. Prefer to discover this part of Kenya from a car? We’ll arrange a night game drive for you.
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All your burning questions about Amboseli answered
What makes Amboseli National Park so special?
Amboseli is famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its massive herds of elephants. The park offers classic savanna landscapes, bird-filled swamps and incredible wildlife photo moments.
When is the best time to visit Amboseli?
The dry seasons from June to October and January to February are perfect for safaris. During these months animals gather around the water sources and visibility is at its best.
What animals can I see in Amboseli?
You can spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, hyenas and plenty of bird species. With a bit of luck you might also catch sight of cheetahs or leopards.
Can I see Mount Kilimanjaro clearly from Amboseli?
Yes, on clear days you’ll get a breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro from several spots in the park. Early mornings are usually the best time for a crystal clear view, but most days you can see Africa’s highest peak towering in the distance.
How do I get to Amboseli?
You can reach Amboseli by car from Nairobi, which takes around four hours, or by domestic flight to the park’s airstrip. At Charlie’s Travels we recommend driving, since the journey itself is already full of beautiful views and local life.
How many days should I spend in Amboseli?
Two to three days is perfect to really explore the park, spot plenty of wildlife and soak up those incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
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