Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park : is basically one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. The name “Amboseli” comes from a Maasai word meaning “salty dust”. Besides, it is a popular park with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This park is generally a is home to more than 50 species of mammal and over 400 species of bird. The park also has a dried up lake bed that is occasionally subjected to flooding. On the other hand, the swamps and springs take their waters from Kilimanjaro’s melting snow. Despite its majestic scenery, the awesome display of wildlife is still the main attraction in the park. It has become a haven for photographers and documentaries as they join safari to get closer to nature and its wildlife.
Activities in Amboseli National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro
This is the highest mountain in the African continent that provides perfect backdrop for nature photography. The hill also allows an overall view of the whole park especially the swamps and elephants.
Game drives
These generally provides a truly refreshing encounter of watching the sunrise and sunset in exceptional hues of colour change over the horizons. Wildlife to encounter include; the lions, buffalos, rhinos, leopards, giraffes, antelopes, monkeys, spotted hyenas, etc. Besides, the park is like a gigantic bowl of vast vegetation cover and numerous swamps that harbor wild animals of disparate species.
Cultural visits
The local communities living around the park are basically unique ethnic group in East Africa. Furthermore, the Maasai community is known for its traditional culture that has not been affected by modernization of the African continent. They generally lead a tribal way of life, which is worth exploring especially their traditional dances and clothing.
Guided nature walk
A guided nature walk in this park is a great way for travelers to stretch their legs and experience Africa’s beauty on a more intimate level. The backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro the highest free standing mountain in the world makes the Amboseli the ideal jungle in Africa for nature photography.
How to get to Amboseli National Park
By Road
The main road into the park is from Nairobi via Namanga (240 km) on the Nairobi-Arusha Road, through Meshanani Gate. The other road is from Nairobi via Emali (228 km) on the Nairobi – Mombasa Road. You can also access from Mombasa through Tsavo West National Park via Kimana (Olkelunyiet) Gate.
By Air
The Park has a single airstrip for light aircrafts at Empusel gate. On the other hand, airstrips exist at Kilimanjaro Buffalo Lodge and Namanga town.
Accommodation
Luxury
- Ol Tukai, Kibo Villa
Mid-range
- Amboseli Eco Camp
Budget
- Mwanga Campsite