Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations, best known for its large elephant herds and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Located in southern Kenya near the Tanzania border, Amboseli offers classic African safari landscapes: open plains, swamps, and wildlife-rich areas where you can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and countless bird species. This Amboseli National Park safari guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, including what wildlife to see, the best time to visit, and essential travel tips.
Where to stay in Tsavo?
We stayed in the most amazing safari lodge you can ever stay in: Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli. The lodge is located in the middle of Amboseli National Park (yes, with a fence around it to protect you from predators). Breakfast and dinner with a view! Just make sure to really lock your doors, as baboons have learned to open door handles!
What wildlife can be spotted in Amboseli National Park?
1) Gnus / Wildebeests
The gnu! I saw a few gnus running around and stamping their feet to show off their territory when there were hyenas close by.
2) Zebras
We once again saw zebras, but due to the green swam, their colors came out more beautifully!
3) Hippos
Our first hippo! Lions are not the most dangerous animal in Africa, but the hippo is! Number 1 death in Africa is the hippo.
4) Flamingos
Ok, bad photo, but this shows you how many flamingos there are. We couldn’t get any closer, but what a sight it was!
5) Hyenas
During our evening safari, we saw the hyenas waking up and getting ready to hunt! This was so special. You could also see all the zebras and gnus becoming more suspicious of their surroundings!
6) Elephants
The next morning, we took an early safari and stumbled upon an elephant blocking the main road (rule #1: animals own the road and have priority). His herd stood aside from the road, and some elephants were putting on their ‘sunscreen’ by rubbing earth on themselves.
7) Lions
Suddenly, our guide turns the jeep and accelerates. Someone spotted a lioness. When we arrived at the location, I could not see the lioness. I even thought she was hiding in a bush, but 10 minutes later I realized the rock in the high grass was not a rock but a lioness (imagining all those ‘rocks’ I thought I saw previously).
When all the safari jeeps of the park were present, the lioness gave up her hunt (a gnu) and began strolling. Suddenly, two other lionesses appeared. One of them is the goofy one. Reminding you that I’m a cat lover, I went nuts. Eventually, the lionesses decided to rest and disappeared after doing one final stretch on a tree!
Maasai Village
After our safari, we also went for a visit to a local Maasai village to learn more about their culture and habits. Read about my Maasai Village Experience.
Safari Practical Tips
Driver & Guide
You can’t drive your own car into Amboseli. You’re obligated to go with a licensed driver and guide. You can easily arrange a safari tour at your hotel, but best to plan with an agency. We did it with our travel agency in advance.
Tip: Drink before your safari, 3 cups of black tea to stay hydrated during the safari.
Get up early or sleep in
The best safaris are the ones in the early morning or late afternoon. That’s when the animals are most active. Around noon, all animals will take shelter to keep cool. We did 1 early-morning safari and 2 evening safaris in Amboseli National Park.
What to wear on a Safari?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate, and do safaris in neutral colours (beige, brown, and green). Do wear warm clothing as it gets cold during the evening and morning safari.
What to pack for a Safari?
Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your safari trip:
- A pair of binoculars: to see all wildlife up close.
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned
- Malaria pills & mosquito repellent: There is a high risk of malaria throughout Kenya. Prevention through malaria tablets and strict mosquito repellent measures (DEET, mosquito nets) is essential. The risk is highest during and after the rainy season (June-December).
- Hat or cap: for sun protection
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Amboseli
✈️When is the best time to visit Amboseli?
The dry season (June-October and January-February) offers the best wildlife sightings.
🌄 Can you see Kilimanjaro from Amboseli?
Yes, on clear days, you can see Mount Kilimanjaro rising behind the plains.
🕒 How many days do you need in Amboseli National Park?
Most travelers spend 1-3 days on game drives and wildlife viewings. We stayed 3 days in Amboseli National Park.
🐘 Is Amboseli good for first-time safari travelers?
Yes, it’s one of Kenya’s most accessible and wildlife-rich parks.