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Amboseli National Park

Exploring Amboseli National Park: A Wildlife Haven Beneath Kilimanjaro

Amboseli National Park

All About Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park was established in 1974 and is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in southern Kenya, near the Tanzanian border. It covers approximately 392 square kilometers. The park is famed for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, which provides a majestic backdrop to the park’s diverse ecosystems. These include expansive savannahs, acacia woodlands, wetlands, and the seasonal Lake Amboseli. The park’s name is derived from this lake, which occupies a significant portion of the park but is typically dry outside the rainy seasons.

Amboseli is home to a rich array of wildlife, most notably its large herds of African elephants, including some of the rare “super-tuskers” elephants with exceptionally long tusks that often reach the ground. Other species commonly observed include buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, impalas, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and over 400 bird species. The park’s relatively open landscape allows for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a popular destination for safari enthusiasts.

The best time to Visit Amboseli National Park

When is the Best Time to Visit Amboseli National Park?

The ideal time to visit Amboseli National Park is during the dry seasons, which correspond to the park’s high and peak tourist seasons:

Low Season

April to May. This period coincides with the long rains, leading to lush landscapes but potentially challenging wildlife spotting due to dense vegetation. Some lodges may close, and visitor numbers are lower, often resulting in discounted rates.

High Season

June to October. The dry conditions make animals congregate around water sources, enhancing wildlife viewing. The bush is less dense, and the weather is generally pleasant, attracting more visitors.

Peak Season

December to March. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather near remaining water sources. The weather is warm and dry, making it a popular time for tourists, especially around the holiday season.

Amboseli National Park Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Amboseli National Park

Amboseli experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons:

Season Months Average Temperature Average Rainfall
Long Rains March-May 20°C – 30°C High
Dry Season June-October 18°C – 28°C Low
Short Rains November-December 20°C – 30°C Moderate
Short Dry Spell January-February 22°C – 32°C Low

How to Get to Amboseli National Park

Ways to Travel to Amboseli National Park

By Road: From Nairobi, Amboseli is accessible via two main routes:

Via Namanga: A 240-kilometer journey taking approximately 4-5 hours, passing through Namanga on the Kenya-Tanzania border.

Via Emali: A 228-kilometer route taking about 4 hours, branching off from the Nairobi-Mombasa highway at Emali.

Both routes lead to various park gates, including Namanga Gate in the northwest and Kimana Gate in the east.

By Air: Chartered flights are available from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli Airport, located within the park. The airport’s coordinates are approximately 2°38’42.00″S latitude and 37°15’0.00″E longitude.

Google Map of Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park Map Showing its location

The below Amboseli National Park Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Amboseli National Park Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park Fees 2024 – Non Residents

Details Non Residents Rates Peak Season July to December Low season January to June
Adults USD 60 USD 60
Children / Students USD 35 USD 35

Amboseli National Park Fees 2024 – Residents and Kenyans

Details – Kenyans and Residents Rates Peak Season – July to December Low season January to June
Adults KES 860 KES 860
Children / Students KES 216 KES 215

Below is the Step by Step process for Paying Amboseli National Park Fees.

  • Proceed to kws.ecitizen.go.ke to access the eCitizen portal.
  • The link will take you to the eCitizen platform, where your ID number and password credentials are required.
  • After signing in, tap on the services tab.
  • Scroll down and select Kenya Wildlife Service.
  • Select the park or sanctuary that you want to visit.
  • Enter the number of adults and children in your party.
  • The system will prompt the user with the preferred means of making payment. This can either be using mobile money, or a credit/debit card.
  • Through mobile money, one is required to pay using the MPESA Option
  • Use the special application number of your booking as your account number.
  • Enter the amount.
  • You will receive a confirmation message once your payment is successful.
  • Through the eCitizen site, one can view the history of their previous applications.

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