AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
The Amboseli National Park lies at the foot of the snow-capped Kilimanjaro, 5896 meters above sea level, in the southern part of Kenya.
Amboseli, with an area of 392 km2, was declared a national park in 1972. The southern border of the park is also the border with Tanzania. Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain, is the dominant element.
The name "Amboseli" comes from a Maasai word meaning "salty dust" and it is one of the best places in Africa to observe large herds of elephants at close range.
Nature lovers can explore various habitats here: Wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and forest areas. Due to the melting of the glacier, Lake Amboseli, which used to be dry, has been visible again for a few years now.
The local Maasai communities who live their authentic culture live around the park.
Wildlife
The large mammal community includes a wide range of herbivores and carnivores. Cape buffalo, impala, Maasai giraffe, gerenuks, lesser kudu, Grant's zebra, gazelle and wildebeest roam the landscape in search of water and grazing in the dry season. The park has a high elephant population of around 1,800 animals, making it a suitable habitat for this iconic species. It is also home to large carnivores such as lion, leopard, cheetah, spotted hyena, jackal and civet cat. In the early morning hours you can often take the famous photos that everyone automatically associates with Kenya. Elephants, giraffes, lions and Kilimanjaro in the background.
Because of its large herds, it is also known as the "land of giants". Land of the Giants" because of its large herds of elephants, including some with impressively large tusks. The park was a safe haven for an incredible bull elephant named Tim. This mighty elephant quickly became one of the attractions with his size and iconic tusks that reached down to the ground. At the time of his natural death in 2020, he was estimated to be around 50 years old. In addition, Amboseli was home to Echo, the most studied elephant in the world, about whom there are many books and documentaries. Thus, the park offers a living memory of iconic species of extraordinary physique that cannot be seen anywhere in the world.
Birdlife
With 400 bird species represented, including water birds such as pelicans, kingfishers, lobsters, hamerkop and 47 species of birds of prey. It is an important bird sanctuary and is home to endangered species such as the Malagasy pond heron.
Worth seeing
Observation Hill, the name comes from the fact that the pyramid-shaped hill is ideal for aerial photography and observation. The summit offers a magnificent panoramic view of the park.
CAMPS/LODGES IN AMBOSELI
Amboseli Serena Lodge ****
96 rooms
is designed in the style of a Maasai village and blends harmoniously into the landscape. Fed by an underground spring, a small stream flows through the complex, creating a spacious, evergreen garden.
Ol Tukai Lodge ***
80 rooms
is located in the heart of Amboseli with a great view of Kilimanjaro. The original Ol Tukai Lodge was built for the film crew that shot the movie "Snow on Kilimanjaro" here in 1948. The current lodge was rebuilt in 1997.
Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp ***
20 tents
is situated on the edge of the park in the reserve. The tents are comfortable with integrated bathrooms. All tents with terrace have a view of Kilimanjaro. 10 tents have a paddling pool with a view of Kilimanjaro. The remaining 10 tents are without a paddling pool.
Tawi Lodge ****
12 cottages
is situated in a private conservancy, 5 minutes from Amboseli National Park. Each cottage has a wooden veranda and a fabulous view of the highest mountain in Africa, even from the bed or bathtub. All cottages have an en-suite bathroom with both bath and shower. Each cottage has its own fireplace and a mini bar for special sundowners. Lighting and water supply are solar powered. The style of the lodge is a harmonious combination of modern (for your comfort) and traditional (to remind you that you are in Africa).
Sentrim Amboseli Camp ***
is located on the edge of the park and is a generously equipped tented camp. All tents have an integrated bathroom. You can enjoy a spectacular view of Mount Kilimanjaro from the camp's vantage point.
