1.)History of Amboseli National Park
2.)Amboseli national park location
3.) Amboseli National Park Entrance Fee
4.)How to get to Amboseli National Park by Road
5.)How to get to Amboseli National Park by Air
6.)Game drive cost in Amboseli National Park
7.)FAQ About Amboseli National Park
8.)Accommodation at Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park, often referred to as the "Home of the African Elephant," is a premier wildlife conservation area in southern Kenya, renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
The park's origins trace back to 1906 when it was designated as a 27,700 square Kilometer Southern Reserve for the Maasai people by the British colonial government. In 1948 in recognition of the abundant wildlife and unique habitat in the area 3260 Square Kiometer was proclaimed as Maasai Amboseli Game reserve and placed under the administration of National Park Trustees. In 1961 the area became a county council game reserve .
In 1971 a presidential decree declares that an area of 392 square kilometers surrounding the ecosystem main swamp was to be used exclusively for wildlife and tourism and in 1974, 372 square kilometers was gazetted as a National Park to protect its unique ecosystem. In 1991, Amboseli was recognized as a man and biosphere reserve thus making man and biosphere reserve in Kenya to be 2 including Mount Kenya UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its global ecological significance.
Amboseli national park location
Amboseli National Park is situated in Kajiado County, southeastern Kenya, near the Kenya-Tanzania border. It covers an area of approximately 392 square kilometers, 96865.31 ACRES and lies at the northwest base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak.
The park's proximity to this iconic mountain provides a breathtaking backdrop, especially during clear mornings and late afternoons.
Payments can be made through the eCitizen platform via MPesa, Visa Card, RTGS, or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).
Citizen Adult | 860Ksh |
Citizen Child | 215Ksh |
Resident Adult | 860Ksh |
Resident Child | 215Ksh |
Non-Resident Adult | 60 USD |
Non-Resident Child | 35 USD |
From Nairobi, travelers have several options:
Via Emali to Iremito Gate: This route covers about 204 kilometers. From Nairobi, drive along the Nairobi-Mombasa road to Emali. At Emali, turn onto the Emali-Loitokitok road and follow signs leading to Amboseli via Iremito Gate.
Via Kimana Gate: Continue on the Emali-Loitokitok road to Kimana town, then follow signs to the park through Kimana Gate.
Via Namanga to Meshanani Gate: This route is approximately 220 kilometers. Travel from Nairobi to Namanga on a tarmacked road, then proceed on a murram (gravel) road from Namanga to Meshanani Gate.
From Tsavo West National Park: A road links Amboseli to Tsavo West National Park, leading to the park through Kimana Gate, covering about 240 kilometers.
How to get to Amboseli National Park by Air
Amboseli boasts a tarmacked airstrip—Kimana Airstrip—suitable for light aircraft. Daily scheduled flights operate from Nairobi to Amboseli, as well as from Tsavo West and the Masai Mara.
Less than 6 seats | KSH 300 |
6-12 seats | KSH 1,030 |
13-24 seats | KSH 2,585 |
25-44 seats | KSH 4,050 |
45 seats and above | KSH 5,000 |
List of Animals Found In Amboseli National Park
Mammals
African Elephant – Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds.
Lion – Often spotted in the savannah areas.
Leopard – Though elusive, leopards can be found in wooded areas.
Cheetah – Frequently seen hunting in open plains.
Spotted Hyena – Active during both day and night.
African Buffalo – Common around the swamps and grasslands.
Zebra – Large herds roam across the park.
Giraffe – Mostly found near acacia woodlands.
Wildebeest – A key species in the park's ecosystem.
Hippopotamus – Often found in swampy areas.
Black-backed Jackal – Frequently seen scavenging.
Bat-eared Fox – Known for its distinctive large ears.
Grant’s Gazelle – A common antelope species in Amboseli.
Thomson’s Gazelle – Recognized by its small size and speed.
Impala – Found in herds across the park.
Waterbuck – Typically found near water sources.
Warthog – Easily spotted running with their tails upright.
Eland – The largest antelope species in the park.
Bushbuck – Often found in the park’s wooded areas.
Banded Mongoose – Small, social carnivores often seen in groups.
Secretary Bird – A distinctive bird of prey.
Crowned Crane – Easily identified by its golden crest.
African Fish Eagle – Common near water bodies.
Superb Starling – A colorful, iridescent bird.
Marabou Stork – Often seen scavenging.
Lappet-faced Vulture – One of the largest vulture species.
Grey Heron – Frequently found near swamps.
Kori Bustard – One of the largest flying birds.
Egyptian Goose – Common near water sources.
Flamingos – Sometimes spotted in the park’s wetlands.
Reptiles
Nile Crocodile – Found in the swamps and water bodies.
African Rock Python – A large, non-venomous snake.
Black Mamba – One of the most dangerous snakes in Africa.
Monitor Lizard – Common near the wetlands.
Chameleon – Found in the park's wooded areas.
Tortoises – Various species can be found in the grasslands.
The Geology in Amboseli National Park is heavily dominated by Mount Kilimanjaro volcano with many of the rocks such as basalt having been derived from lava flow.When Kilimanjaro erupted lava flows blocked the ancient Pangani river and created the present day seasonal and featureless Lake Amboseli. The Flat Topography of Amboseli is dotted with a number of small extinct volcanic hills such as Namatior ,Kitirua and Ilmerishari
FAQ About Amboseli National Park
Distance from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park
The park is located approximately 365 kilometers (226 miles) southeast of Nairobi.
The name "Amboseli" originates from the Maasai word "Empusel," which translates to "salty dust place." This aptly describes the park's terrain, characterized by vast, dry plains often covered in a fine, alkaline dust. The area within the park contains a dried lake bed, that when dry, creates the dusty conditions that lead to the name.
Train Services from Nairobi to Amboseli
Currently, there is no direct train service from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park. Travelers typically opt for road transfers or flights to reach the park.
Best Time to Visit Amboseli National Park
The dry season (June to October and January to February) is generally considered the best time to visit Amboseli, as wildlife congregates around water sources, making for excellent viewing.
Accommodation at Amboseli National Park
Kilimanjaro Guest House is a self-catering accommodation located within Amboseli National Park, offering guests panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and close encounters with the park's renowned elephant herds. Three bedrooms accommodating up to seven guests: First bedroom: One double bed. Second bedroom: One double bed. Third bedroom: Three single beds. Rates for Residents is 12,000 KES per night while Non-Residents: $240 USD per night.
Image of Amboseli KWS Guesthouses
Kilimanjaro Annex
Kilimanjaro Annex is a self-catering accommodation facility located within Amboseli National Park, Kenya. It offers guests an immersive experience amidst the park's diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The annex can accommodate up to four guests. Rates for Residents is KSh 6,000 per night while for Non-Residents is $100 per night. Please note that rates are subject to change, and it's advisable to confirm current pricing before making a reservation
Simba Cottages
Simba Cottages are self-catering accommodations located within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests an immersive wildlife experience with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Each cottage accommodates up to two guests. Rates for Residents is KSh 4,000 per night. Non-Residents: $90 per night.
Chui Cottages
Chui Cottages are self-catering accommodations located within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests an immersive wildlife experience with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.Each cottage accommodates up to two guests.Rates for Residentsis KSh 4,000 per night whiel Non-Residents is $90 per night
Ol Tukai Lodge is a luxury safari lodge nestled within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and close encounters with the park's renowned elephant herds.The lodge features 80 chalet-style rooms, each with a private terrace overlooking either the wetlands or the mountain. These rooms are designed to provide comfort and luxury amidst the African wilderness.
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a luxurious retreat nestled within Kenya's Amboseli National Park, offering guests panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding savannahs. The lodge's design reflects Maasai cultural elements, creating an authentic ambiance that harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings
Kibo Villa is a luxurious private retreat nestled within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro and an intimate safari experience.
Comentários