Amboseli National Park – Safari, Accommodation, Fees, and Location

Amboseli National Park – Safari, Accommodation, Fees, Location and Photos

Overview of Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations. Located in the southern part of the country, it is known for its large elephant herds and clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park covers 392 square kilometers and is home to diverse landscapes, including savannah, swamps, and seasonal lakes.

This park is part of the Amboseli ecosystem, which stretches across Kenya and northern Tanzania. Its compact size makes it ideal for short safaris while offering high chances of spotting wildlife throughout the year.

Amboseli National Park Safari Experience

A safari in Amboseli National Park offers close-up views of elephants, buffaloes, lions, zebras, wildebeest, and over 400 bird species. Game drives are available in the morning and evening, with excellent photography opportunities, especially with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.

Visitors can also go on walking safaris near the park boundaries or arrange cultural visits to local Maasai communities. The park is well-suited for both first-time and repeat safari travelers.

Amboseli National Park Accommodation

There are several accommodation options inside and near Amboseli National Park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget camps.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is located within the park and offers comfortable rooms, game viewing decks, and a pool. Ol Tukai Lodge is another popular choice, known for its views of elephants crossing the plains. Tortilis Camp offers tented luxury and guided walking safaris.

Most lodges offer full-board packages and guided game drives. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons from June to October and December to February.

Amboseli National Park Entrance Fees

Entrance fees vary based on residency status:

International tourists pay USD 60 per adult and USD 35 per child per day.
Kenyan citizens pay KES 800 per adult and KES 215 per child.
East African residents pay KES 1,200 per adult and KES 600 per child.

The Kenya Wildlife Service manages these fees. Payment is usually made through MPesa or credit card at the park gates. Private vehicles entering the park are charged separately, depending on size.

Amboseli National Park Location and County

Amboseli National Park is located in Kajiado County, in southern Kenya. The park borders Tanzania and lies approximately 230 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. It forms part of the larger Amboseli ecosystem, which includes private conservancies and wildlife corridors that support seasonal animal migrations.

Its location near the Tanzania border and Mount Kilimanjaro makes it one of the most scenic national parks in East Africa.

Amboseli National Park Map and Directions from Nairobi

Amboseli is accessible by road and air. From Nairobi, the most direct route is via the Nairobi–Mombasa Road to Emali, then south to Kimana Gate. The total drive takes about four to five hours.

The park is served by a small airstrip for chartered flights, landing near Amboseli Serena Lodge. A map of Amboseli National Park is available at the main gates and at most lodges. It includes game drive circuits, swamp areas, viewing points, and picnic sites.

Amboseli National Park History and Background

Amboseli was first set aside as a wildlife reserve in 1906 and declared a national park in 1974. The aim was to protect its unique ecosystem and the free-roaming elephants that made the park famous.

The park has a long history of human-wildlife coexistence, particularly with the Maasai communities who have lived in the area for generations. Conservation efforts here have focused on managing water levels in the swamp areas, controlling illegal grazing, and reducing human-wildlife conflict along the park’s boundaries.

Amboseli National Park Photo Highlights

Amboseli is one of the most photographed parks in Africa. Its flat, open terrain makes wildlife easy to spot, and the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro adds dramatic scenery.

Popular photo spots include Observation Hill, the Enkongo Narok swamp, and elephant trails near Ol Tukai Lodge. Visitors often capture images of large elephant families walking in single file, lions in the grass, or flamingos in seasonal water bodies.

When uploading images to your gallery, use descriptive file names and alt text like “elephants in Amboseli with Kilimanjaro background” or “Amboseli safari game drive photo.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Amboseli National Park is in which county?
Amboseli is in Kajiado County, southern Kenya.

How far is Amboseli from Nairobi?
Amboseli is about 230 kilometers from Nairobi. Travel time is around 4 to 5 hours by road.

What is the entrance fee for Amboseli National Park?
USD 60 for international adults, KES 800 for Kenyan adults. Children and residents have different rates.

Where can I stay in Amboseli National Park?
Top lodges include Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, Ol Tukai Lodge, and Tortilis Camp. Budget options are available outside the gate.

What is Amboseli known for?
Amboseli is famous for elephant herds, Mount Kilimanjaro views, and rich birdlife.

Do I need a 4×4 to visit Amboseli?
Yes, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.

Is Amboseli good for a short safari?
Yes. The park is compact and has reliable wildlife sightings year-round, making it ideal for 1 to 3-day safaris.