Known for being the best place to see mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is probably Africa’s best hidden gem for safaris.
Overshadowed by the great Masai Mara in Kenya or the nearby Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, I was surprise to see many travelers skipping a safari in Amboseli National Park in East Africa. This national park not only offers the best views of Mount Kilimanjaro, but it is also home for one of the largest communities of elephants in Africa as well to zebras, lions, cheetahs and buffalo. Wild encounters are 100% guaranteed and no matter if you are a first-timer on your way to your first safari or an old experienced traveler looking to explore something different, Amboseli will leave you in awe.
Magic surrounds you everywhere in Amboseli. Either you go there for the panoramic views, the excellent bird-watching, or to spot these large herds of 30, 40 and even 50 elephants together, Amboseli won’t disappoint. Here is a guide on how to make the most during your visit in Amboseli National Park.
Amboseli National Park in a Nutshell
- Best time: June to October (dry season)
- Price average: $60 park entrance fee (non-residents), $200+ per day for safari lodges
- Quality of Wildlife: Excellent, known for large elephant herds and views of Mt. Kilimanjaro
- Average accommodation: Mid-range to luxury lodges and tented camps ($150-$600 per night)
- Accessibility: 4-hour drive from Nairobi or 40-minute flight
- Self-drive safari: Yes, with 4×4 vehicles recommended
- Top experiences: Elephant spotting, Kilimanjaro views, guided game drives, Maasai village visits
- ood amount of days: 2-3 days for a well-rounded safari experience
- Average price for a full safari: $500-$1,000 per person, including accommodation, park fees, and guided drives
- Where to go next: Cross into Tanzania for safaris in Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater (border is close by, 2-3 hours)
- Where to book hotels: use Booking.com for accomodation in cities like Nairobi or Arusha, but Safaribookings for planning full tours.
Understanding Amboseli National Park
Located almost 200 km south of Nairobi and situated right next to the border with Tanzania, Amboseli’s accessibility and biodiversity makes it one of the most interesting places to visit during a trip to Kenya.
Experts agree that the sceneries of Amboseli are probably the best in whole Africa and despite its size – way smaller than its bigger cousin, Masai Mara, or other national parks in Kenya like East Tsavo – Amboseli host some of the best animal encounters you can see in the continent.
It has some of the highest concentrations of wildlife during the dry season (June to October and December to March) and some consider it the best spot to see elephants in whole East Africa.
Planning a stop in Nairobi? Book you accomodation using Booking.com or Agoda.com to find the best price. My recommendation is to compare both platforms and check which one has the biggest discount.
Best Time to Visit Amboseli National Park
The best time to visit Amboseli National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. During these months, the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more visible as animals gather around water sources. The dry season also provides clear skies, offering stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the early mornings and late afternoons, which is one of the park’s most iconic features.
Key reasons to visit during the dry season:
- Wildlife viewing is at its peak. Animals congregate at waterholes, making them easier to spot.
- Clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
- Fewer mosquitoes and less risk of malaria, as the dry conditions reduce mosquito populations.
Though the dry season is ideal, Amboseli can also be visited in the wet season, from November to May. The landscape is lush and green, and birdwatching is excellent during these months, as migratory species arrive. However, wildlife is more dispersed, and some roads may be harder to navigate due to rainfall.
In summary:
- Dry season (June to October): Best for wildlife and scenic views.
- Wet season (November to May): Lush landscapes, good for birdwatching, but more dispersed wildlife.
Why plan a safari in Amboseli National Park
Amboseli’s unique location also adds something special to the mix. Its fresh underground water supply from the Kilimanjaro’s ice cap provides Amboseli with enough water, so wildlife can easily coexist all year round. Additionally, Amboseli offers some of the best sites in the world for birdwatching. Here, it is not surprising to see thousands of flamingo flying around as well large populations of ostriches and other East African birds.
For travelers visiting Amboseli and arriving from Nairobi or Arusha, the best way to explore it is from west to east. The western gates of the national park (Meshanani Gate or Kiritua Gate) are located between 70-80 kilometers from the town of Namanga. Furthermore, road conditions are also in very good shape (keep in mind, the road from Namanga to Kiritua Gate is a dirt-road) and there is plenty of accommodation in that area.
Inside the park, off road is forbidden by the authorities (in contrast to Masai Mara) and signalization is excellent. Amboseli is very well organized and very easy to move around without getting lost – something that can be a plus for those interested in doing a self-driving experience.
I visited Amboseli for 3 nights and 4 days and it was enough time to explore everything I wanted and take some incredible memories back home.
From A to Z – How to Start Planning a Safari to Amboseli National Park
- Choose Travel Dates
- Determine the best time to visit based on wildlife activity, flight prices, availability, etc.
- Set a Budget
- Calculate how much do you want to spend on your time in the country (without flights and visas) and how many of those days you want to spend them on a safari – a basic safari budget in Amboseli starts a 500 USD for one person or 700 USD for a couple
- Book Flights
- Book flights to nearby airports. Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) is the closest one, but you can also start in Tanzania and cross to Kenya overland.
- Decide what kind of safari you want to do
- Decide if you want to use a foreign tour operator (G-Adventures, Elewana, etc), a local operator (My top recommendation – Africa Kenya Safaris) or plan everything individually. Get an idea of tours and prices at Safaribookings.
- Plan Safari Activities
- Decide how many nights you want to spend. Calculate how many nights your budget allows and if you want to prioritize accomodation or safari experiences.
- Decide on extra activities like cultural visits, night safaris, or walking safaris.
- Arrange Transportation
- Decide how to get to Amboseli (fly, drive, or hire a driver).
- Rent a car or book airport transfers if needed.
- Check Visa Requirements
- Ensure you have the necessary visa for entry into Kenya. The e-Visa system works perfectly.
- Get Vaccinations & Travel Insurance
- Check for recommended vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever).
- Purchase travel insurance that covers safaris.
- Pack Safari Essentials
- Prepare suitable clothing, binoculars, camera gear, sunscreen, and travel documents.
- Confirm Safari Permits & Entry Fees
- Prepay park entry fees or confirm with your tour provider.
- Plan for Departure
- Reconfirm bookings and finalize last-minute preparations a few days before the trip.
Be connected at all times in Africa.
I recommend an e-SIM with Airalo. With them, I bought a plan of 10 GB for my whole stay in most countries.
Read more: Tsavo, Amboseli or Masai Mara – Which safari park in Kenya should you visit?
How much is a safari in Amboseli National Park
Entry Fees and Safari Prices for Amboseli National Park
Entry fees to Amboseli National Park are regulated by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and are generally divided into two categories: non-residents and East African Community (EAC) residents. These fees are charged on a per day basis, so longer visits will incur higher costs.
For non-residents (charged in USD):
- Adults: $60 USD per person per day
- Children (3–18 years old): $35 USD per child per day
For East African residents (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania):
- Adults: KSH 860 per person per day
- Children: KSH 215 per child per day
INSIDER TIP: When you book through a tour operator, they take care of organizing all these permits in advance. If you are planing an individual tour, you still need to get in touch with an agency who will take care of this, or try your luck at the gate. Since the amount of permits per day is limited, you can be unlucky on high season.
Vehicle Fees for self drive safaris in Amboseli
Amboseli is one of the best parks I’ve seen to do a self drive safari (I still recommend to go on a tour – more on that below). Still, If you are self-driving or using your own vehicle, there are additional charges for vehicles entering the park. These fees are based on the vehicle’s weight and type.
- Vehicles less than 6 seats: KSH 300 per day
I paid also 100 USD extra for a better vehicle and stayed in a standard lodge.
Safari Prices
In addition to entry fees, a safari experience comes with various costs, depending on the type of safari, accommodation, and duration of your stay. Here’s an overview of the most common safari options and their price range:
Guided Safaris
A good guided safari offers a complete package with professional guides who are knowledgeable about Amboseli’s ecosystem and wildlife. These tours can be either private or group-based and typically include transport, meals, and accommodation.
- 1-day guided safari: $150–$250 USD per person
- 3-day safari package: $450–$1,000 USD per person (depending on accommodation)
- 5-day safari package: $800–$1,500 USD per person
Private safaris tend to be on the higher end of this range, offering a more personalized experience with smaller group sizes and customized itineraries.
INSIDER TIP: DO NOT GET A VAN. Getting a van for your safari is a budget option that in my opinion is not worth it. One of the best decisions I took was booking a safari with a safari car for 100 USD extra.
Self-Drive Safari
For adventurous travelers, a self-drive safari is a popular option. While you save on guide fees, renting a vehicle capable of handling Amboseli’s terrain is essential. Costs include entry fees, vehicle hire, and fuel.
- 4×4 rental: $80–$150 USD per day, depending on the vehicle type
- Fuel: Approx. $40 USD per day (depending on how much you drive)
Keep in mind that while self-drive safaris give you freedom, having a professional guide can significantly enhance the experience by increasing your chances of seeing more wildlife.
Read more: Everything you need to know about the wildebeest migration
Where is the best place to stay in Amboseli
Unlike Masai Mara or Serengeti where location is key when it comes to moving around the national park, Amboseli is small enough that is worth risking location in order to save some money.
Travelers visiting Amboseli can also choose between staying inside the national park or outside the park. Both options are fine and it is important to mention that staying outside Amboseli does not mean risking the quality of the experience.
Accomodation prices in a nutshell
- Luxury lodges: $300–$800 USD per night (usually includes meals and guided tours)
- Mid-range lodges: $150–$250 USD per night
- Budget campsites: $40–$100 USD per night
Some packages include accommodation and game drives, while others charge separately for each. Ask beforehand. In my opinion, first time safari visitors should prioritize the quality of the safari over the quality of accomodation. Budget campsites are still great options and accomodation outside the national park can significantly reduce your costs.
A good place to understand what types of accomodation are available is Trip Advisor. I usually do my research there and then ask for deals with the tour operators.
Accommodation outside the national park
With multiple lodges and camps situated between Kiritua Gate and Namanga, this is probably the best location to stay when visiting Amboseli. Most lodges situated in this side of the park also offer excellent views of Kilimanjaro and depending on how far from the gate you book, you will need 10 minutes or less in order to get into the national park.
Prices for accommodation do not change much outside the national park. Rooms offering breakfast and dinner start at 80 USD a night and for 100-120 USD, you can spurge yourself a little bit without affecting the budget.
Accommodation next to the Meshanani, Ermito and Kimana gates are also available. However, expect long drives into the deep of the national park.
I stayed at Kilima Safari Camp and it was quite good. However, other recommendations are:
- Sentrim Amboseli Lodge
- Kibo Safari Camp (image below)
Accommodation inside the national park
Inside the national park, prices get high and quality as well. Amboseli Serena Lodge, Ol Tukai or Tawi Lodge offer luxury accommodation in the heart of the park. However, expect prices to easily triple or quadruple for a night.
For those expecting a full luxurious journey, Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli (photo below) is located in the southern part of the park and offers a complete private experience.
But not everything inside Amboseli is luxurious. Amboseli’s public campsite offers camping spots for just 30 USD and if you or your tour operator are traveling with a full camping equipment, this could be a great option to get a different kind of experience.
Amboseli’s public campsite is also the preferred choice for travelers doing self-driving.
Other activities around Amboseli
Beside the game drive activities, there is plenty to do around Amboseli. Even though the national park is too far from Namanga, cultural village tours with the Masai are possible not far away from the entrance gate.
Additionally, travelers interested in the activities the national park itself offers, can also enjoy wonderful experiences such as a night drive for just 20 USD, horse riding for 25 USD and even walking safaris for just 15 USD.
Take into consideration that these are just the fees for these activities. You still need to arrange a guide and vehicle to move around.
This is also something you can easily arrange with your tour operator. I visited a traditional Massai village after a game drive and it was a nice alternative to another day of long drives.
Additional Safari Costs
There are a few other costs to keep in mind when budgeting for a trip to Amboseli:
- Tips for guides and staff: While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary to tip your safari guide ($10–$20 USD per day) and lodge staff.
- Optional activities: Activities like birdwatching tours or Maasai village visits can cost between $20 and $50 USD.
Read more: What are the top experiences during a safari trip
Read more: How to plan the best safari in Masai Mara in Kenya
Self-driving or independent safari in Amboseli
Going on a self-driving experience when doing a safari is kind of a dilemma. The trip is definitely more unique, but finding animals is more complicated and long driving hours become exhausting.
And while self-driving in Serengeti or Masai Mara is not recommended at all, Amboseli is not a bad place to test those driving skills while going on a safari.
All roads in the national park have signalization, the driving conditions are fine for anyone who has driven on gravel road before and most vehicles simply follow other cars when it comes to spotting wildlife.
Self-driving fees do not divert at all from the normal vehicle fees and even though Google Maps is great for finding your way around the park, you can also get a road map at the arrival gate with the rangers.
NOTE: Remember basic etiquette while driving on a national park. Never get out of the vehicle. Do not chase animals in the wild and be cautious about encounters with elephants.
Read more: Self-driving in Serengeti – Is it really worth?
Read more: Which are the best safari parks in Africa
Which companies do I recommend for a safari in Amboseli National Park
As I mentioned before, I did a safari in Amboseli National Park on a private tour for four days and three nights.
I balanced my budget between accommodation and days in the national park, and decided to stay for a longer period of time and save money in accommodation.
Since I decided to go on a private safari with a private company, I didn’t have to deal with comparing accommodation prices and calling. I discussed with my tour operator my total budget, my priorities and let her decide what would be the best for me.
In comparison to Masai Mara, Amboseli is way cheaper. Group tours in Amboseli start at 200 USD for 3 days and 2 nights, while private tours for 2 people can start at 100 USD per night per person. The longer you also stay in the park, the cheaper is the tour.
For those looking for a safari experience in Amboseli the best they can do is get in touch with different tour operators, discuss the budget that you are willing to spend in total and arrange the right itinerary based on your needs.
Here is a short list of some trusted local tour operators for safaris in Kenya:
- Africa Kenya Safaris (I used this one for a more private and luxurious trip – Great service and top recommendation)
- Natural World Safaris
- Hyrax Safaris (I used this one on my first budget safari – They offered a great service with the budget I have planned)
- Memorable Safaris
- Go2Africa
- Eyes on Africa Adventure Safaris
A good recommendation is to compare prices and tours using SafariBookings. This is a marketplace platform with every safari company in the country. It is the most direct way to find the best safari at the best price without any middle men.
Check here safari tour operators to compare activities and find the best itinerary for you.
Read more: How to plan a trip to Serengeti National Park
Where to Go Next
After experiencing the majestic landscapes and abundant wildlife of Amboseli National Park, many travelers look for the next adventure. Amboseli’s location near the border of Tanzania makes it an ideal starting point for further exploration in East Africa. Here are some top recommendations on where to go next:
1. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Just a few hours’ drive from Amboseli, crossing the Namanga border into Tanzania, lies the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often paired with safaris in the Serengeti, and its unique ecosystem is home to an incredible density of wildlife, including the elusive black rhino. The crater floor offers a safari experience like no other, where you’ll encounter lions, elephants, and a wealth of bird species.
- How to get there: Drive from Amboseli to Namanga border, then continue on a guided safari into Tanzania.
- Best for: Unique landscapes, high wildlife concentration.
2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
If you’ve been inspired by the wildlife encounters in Amboseli, your next destination should be the legendary Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Famous for the Great Migration, the Serengeti offers unparalleled opportunities to witness massive herds of wildebeest and zebras on the move. Lions, cheetahs, and leopards also roam this vast savannah. Ngorongoro Crater, providing a diverse wildlife experience.
- How to get there: Cross the Namanga border and head towards Arusha, then continue to Serengeti by road or short domestic flight.
- Best for: Great Migration, big cats, expansive landscapes.
3. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
For adventurous travelers, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, is within easy reach of Amboseli. Located just across the border in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro offers a challenging but rewarding trekking experience, with breathtaking views and a diverse range of ecosystems. The mountain is visible from Amboseli on clear days, and climbing it provides a completely different experience from a safari.
- How to get there: Drive to Moshi from Amboseli via Namanga, then start your trek from one of Kilimanjaro’s several routes.
- Best for: Adventure enthusiasts, hikers, panoramic views.
4. Tsavo National Park, Kenya
If you prefer to stay within Kenya, Tsavo National Park is an excellent next stop after Amboseli. Divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, this is one of Kenya’s largest parks and is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from semi-arid plains to lush greenery near the river systems. Tsavo is famous for its red elephants, volcanic hills, and Mzima Springs, where you can observe hippos and crocodiles.
- How to get there: Tsavo West is approximately 100 kilometers from Amboseli, easily reachable by road.
- Best for: Elephants, remote and vast wilderness, volcanic landscapes.
5. Maasai Mara, Kenya
Another iconic Kenyan destination is the Maasai Mara, known for its wide-open plains and incredible wildlife, including the Big Five. Like the Serengeti, it hosts part of the Great Migration and offers some of the best chances to witness dramatic predator-prey interactions. The Maasai Mara can be visited on a longer itinerary after Amboseli for a contrasting safari experience.
- How to get there: Fly from Amboseli or Nairobi to Maasai Mara or drive via Nairobi.
- Best for: Big Five, Great Migration, traditional Maasai culture
Read more: How to get ready for your first safari trip?
Read more: How to cross overland from Kenya to Tanzania
How do I find cheap flights to Kenya?
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