Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park, nestled on the border between Kenya and Tanzania, is a captivating destination that spans nearly 400 square kilometers of diverse landscapes. The Park offers an awe-inspiring view of Mount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peak standing tall as Africa’s highest mountain. This backdrop creates iconic moments for wildlife photography, where herds of elephants and other African animals roam freely in the foreground of this majestic, towering giant.
At the heart of the park lies Kioko Lake, a seasonal marvel that can dry up completely during the arid months, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful ashy earth. This unique terrain, known as “Amboseli” by the Maasai people, is a reminder of the delicate balance between nature’s extremes. During your time in Amboseli, you can also discover Maasai culture by visiting one of their villages and creating a profound connection between the land, its wildlife, and its people.
Activities in Amboseli National Park
- Game drives (must-do!)
- Guided nature walks
- Hot air balloon safari
- Visit a Maasai village
- Bird watching
Climate
Kenya has a cold season from June to November with average temperatures of 20°C during the day. Nights can get cold during this season, so it’s best to take a sweater.
Mid-October to November is the short rainy season, after which temperatures rise up to 30°C during the day from December to April. April and May come with showers again as this is the long rainy season. It normally doesn’t rain throughout the day as one sees sunny mornings with rain clouds building up towards the afternoons and evenings.
The best time to visit Amboseli National Park.
We recommend visiting Amboseli National Park between June and November and between February and March
How to get there
Amboseli National Park is a three-hour drive from Kenya’s capital, Nairobi. Several airstrips serve Amboseli National Park. It is only a 45-minute flight away from Nairobi.
Facts about Amboseli National Park.
- Medium-sized Park of 392 square kilometers (151 square miles)
- Established 1974
- On the border of Kenya and Tanzania
- Relatively close to Kenya’s capital, Nairobi
- The huge elephant Tim lived here with tusks that reached the ground
- Magnificent view of Mount Kilimanjaro
Spirit of the Solitary Giraffe.
At dusk, locals and guides of Amboseli National Park often share the story of a solitary giraffe that appears on the horizon near the swamps.
Unlike other giraffes, it never ventures into the open plains, and those fortunate enough to spot it describe the creature as glowing in the fading light. As swiftly as it arrives, the giraffe disappears into the shadows, leaving an eerie silence behind.
This tale, deeply rooted in the rich oral tradition of the Maasai people, is often shared as a legend or spiritual tale.
Many Maasai believe this giraffe is the spirit of one from ancient times, roaming the land to watch over and protect the animals.
This story passed down through generations honors the spiritual bond the Maasai have with the wildlife and the land. It encourages respect for nature and its creatures while preserving the cultural heritage of the Maasai people.
For visitors, the tale adds a sense of wonder, enriching their experience in Amboseli and reminding them of the sacred connection between the environment and the people who call it home.
