Nestled at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is the second most visited reserve in Kenya after the world-famous Maasai Mara. It’s located about 140 km (87 miles) south of Nairobi. Because of this close proximity, an Amboseli National Park safari is a great adventure if you are in or around Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi.

The population around Amboseli is mainly from the Maasai tribe of Kenya. In fact, the name ‘Amboseli’ comes from a Maasai word that loosely translates to “salty dust.” However, because of booming tourism and agricultural activities along the region’s swampy system, you will also find people from other Kenyan tribes in the area.

Your Amboseli National Park Safari with Gemini Expeditions

This Gemini Expeditions Amboseli National Park safari starts with a scenic train journey by the SGR Madaraka Express from Nairobi or Mombasa to Emali. You’ll find a tour guide at the SGR terminal waiting to transfer you to your Amboseli lodge. The guide will help you check in, settle and enjoy your stay, which will include comprehensive game drives in Amboseli. Your three-day Amboseli safari will be capped off with another train journey back to Nairobi or Mombasa.

Not sure you want to take a train on your way to Amboseli? Try our exciting 3-day Amboseli safari in a private tour van or Land Cruiser.

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Overview

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Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

At just under 400 sq km, Amboseli National Reserve is quite a vast expanse. It lies northwest of Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak and the world’s highest freestanding mountain. The park provides spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s summit.

But perhaps more importantly, Amboseli National Park is home to a large variety of African wildlife. It presents excellent opportunities to spot herbivores like elephants, zebras, antelopes, buffalo, giraffe, lesser kudu, dik-dik and many more.

With such a wide selection of prey comes a number of hunters. Some predators that you can view at Amboseli include lions, cheetahs, leopards and wild dogs. For birdwatchers, this park boasts over 600 species of birds, many of which you won’t struggle to find. There’s an abundance of marine life as well, with crocodiles and hippos being the main attractions.

Amboseli National Park has five different types of habitats. Alongside the open plains, it also features wetlands with sulphur springs, a dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, acacia woodlands and the slopes of Ol Doinyo Orok. These features, coupled with the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, provide one of the most picturesque safari destinations in Kenya and Africa.

Trip Highlights

Three days and two nights at the Amboseli National Park
Meals on a full-board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Comprehensive game drives provided by a professional local tour guide
Amboseli safari in a comfortable tour Land Cruiser
Accommodation in luxurious Amboseli lodges
A visit to local Maasai villages and learn about the Maasai culture

Day 1 :

Getting to Amboseli and your resort

Gemini Expeditions will book your SGR train ticket departing from Nairobi or Mombasa (depending on your location) to Emali. A guide will pick you up from the Emali SGR Terminal and drive you to your Amboseli hotel. The approach to Amboseli is one of the most breathtaking thanks to the scenic backdrop provided by snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. You will arrive in Amboseli just in time for lunch, which is often served immediately after check-in.

Enjoy a rest before your first game drive starts at 2:30 pm all through 6:30 pm. The tour guide will drive you back to the hotel, where you may settle for dinner, entertainment, and an overnight stay.

Day 2 :

Full day in Amboseli National Park

Start your day with an early morning safari. The tour guide will pick you up at 6 am for your Amboseli safari. This is a great time to view animals in the open plains.

As the day progresses, many of them (especially predators) will retreat to their hiding and resting spots to get away from the sun. This often makes it a bit harder to spot them, thus making early morning safaris essential.

The tour guide will drive you back to your Amboseli lodge for breakfast. This is followed by yet another safari in the late morning and early afternoon.

At lunch hour, the guide will drive you back to your hotel for a buffet lunch. The afternoon is typically a free session for you to walk around, swim, or explore Amboseli lodges. In the evening, you may settle for dinner, entertainment, and overnight stay.

Day 3 :

Maasai Village and back home

Although there are no game drives today, there’s still a lot of fun to be had. Start the day with breakfast at your safari lodge, then the tour guide will pick you up at 8 am.
You will head to the local Maasai village, where you will be warmly welcome with traditional Maasai songs, jumps and dances. Visitors are allowed to join in the fun and take as many pictures as they want.
Learn about the culture, art and customs of the Maasai people. Get to freely interact with them in English and Kiswahili (or your native language if there’s a translator). But, of course, the beauty of this visit is learning a few Maasai words.
Embark on the journey to Emali where you can catch your return train to Nairobi or Mombasa.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amboseli National Park

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What does Amboseli mean?

The name “Amboseli” originates from the Maasai language, meaning “salty dust.” This name reflects the area’s arid conditions and alkaline soils in parts of the park, which are a result of ancient volcanic activity and the evaporation of Lake Amboseli.

Where is Amboseli National Park?

Amboseli National Park is located in southern Kenya, near the border with Tanzania. It is situated in Kajiado County and lies at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. The park is accessible from major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, making it one of Kenya’s most visited safari destinations.

How big is Amboseli National Park?

Amboseli National Park covers an area of 392 square kilometers (151 square miles). While it is smaller compared to other parks in Kenya, it boasts a high concentration of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for safari enthusiasts and photographers.

How far is Amboseli from Nairobi?

Amboseli is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) south of Nairobi. The drive from Nairobi takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, travelers can take a train to Emali and connect to the park via road, significantly reducing travel time.

How far is Amboseli from Mombasa?

Amboseli is about 460 kilometers (286 miles) from Mombasa. Driving from Mombasa to the park can take 8 to 10 hours. A faster option is to take the SGR train from Mombasa to Emali, then proceed to the park by road.

Amboseli National Park is at the base of which mountain?

Amboseli National Park is located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Although most of the mountain is in Tanzania, its snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop for the park, especially during sunrise and sunset. This iconic view is one of the park’s main attractions.

What animals are in Amboseli?

Amboseli is famous for its large herds of elephants, often seen roaming the plains. Other wildlife includes lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and warthogs. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting over 600 bird species, including flamingos, cranes, pelicans, and herons.

Is an Amboseli safari worth it?

Yes, an Amboseli safari is absolutely worth it. The park offers an unparalleled opportunity to see elephants up close, stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, diverse ecosystems, and rich Maasai culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Amboseli’s beauty and wildlife make it a must-visit destination in Kenya.

How much does an Amboseli National Park safari cost?

The cost of an Amboseli safari varies based on factors like the duration of the trip, type of accommodation, and transport. A 3-day safari typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 per person, including game drives, meals, and lodging. At Gemini Expeditions, every Amboseli safari has a price listed to help you budget better.

What is Amboseli National Park famous for?

Amboseli National Park is famous for its large elephant population, dramatic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and diverse wildlife. It’s also known for its swampy springs, which sustain animals during dry seasons, and its vibrant Maasai culture. The park is a haven for photographers, offering iconic landscapes and wildlife scenes.

3-Day Amboseli National Park Safari: SGR & Expedition In The Wild

Your Amboseli National Park Safari with Gemini Expeditions

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Cost Includes

Cost Exclusions

Frequently Asked Questions About Amboseli National Park

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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Your Amboseli National Park Safari with Gemini Expeditions

Overview

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Cost Includes

Cost Exclusions

Frequently Asked Questions About Amboseli National Park

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

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