Amboseli – Land of Giants in the Shadow of Kilimanjaro

A timeless encounter between mighty elephants, ancestral lands, and Africa’s tallest peak.

Where Giants Roam Beneath the Mountain

Few places in Africa create a memory like Amboseli National Park. Here, vast herds of elephants—some with immense ivory—roam freely beneath the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, just across the Tanzanian border. It’s one of Kenya’s top safari destinations, second only to the Masai Mara, and ideal for travelers seeking iconic wildlife, rich culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Amboseli’s elephant sightings and Kilimanjaro backdrop make it a must-visit on any luxury Kenya safari.

Amboseli’s Famous Elephants

With over 1,200 elephants, Amboseli offers some of the closest and most iconic elephant encounters in Africa. These giants are well-studied, calm around safari vehicles, and often stroll through

swamps or across open plains, offering unmatched photo opportunities.

  • Other wildlife highlights include:

    • Lions, cheetahs, jackals, hyenas
    • Giraffes, buffalo, wildebeest, warthogs, and zebras
    • Unique antelope like the fringe-eared oryx and gerenuk

       

    Over 420 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and eagles

A Landscape Fed by Kilimanjaro

Amboseli’s terrain is diverse and dramatic—open plains, marshes, acacia woodlands, thorn bush, and seasonal Lake Amboseli, shaped by the meltwaters of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Don’t miss:

  • Observation Hill – A panoramic viewpoint over the plains and swamps

  • Enkongo Narok swamp – A key wildlife hotspot for hippos, elephants, and birds

Lake Amboseli – A dry alkaline lakebed most of the year, lush after rains

Cultural Encounters with the Maasai

Amboseli sits in the heart of Maasai country, where traditional pastoralist communities live in harmony with the wild.

As a Queen of East Africa guest, you can:

  • Visit authentic Maasai villages (manyattas)
  • Experience Maasai customs, ceremonies, and the famous Ipid jumping dance
  • Walk with a local guide who tracks wildlife by reading the land and footprints

These experiences are authentic, respectful, and guided by those who call Amboseli home.

Where to Stay: Our Top Lodge Picks

We partner with lodges that offer exceptional service, prime wildlife locations, and front-row views of Kilimanjaro.

Angama Amboseli – Contemporary Luxury in Kimana Sanctuary

  • Located in the private 5,700-acre Kimana Sanctuary, known for its “super tusker” elephants.
  • 10 stunning suites with uninterrupted mountain views and modern African design.
  • Infinity pool, photography studio, and tailor-made safari experiences.
  • Perfect for families, couples, and conservation-minded travelers.

Elewana Tortilis Camp – Timeless Safari Charm

  • .Nestled in an acacia grove on the park’s southwest edge, with prime elephant viewing.
  • Spacious tents with thatched roofs, a family suite, and a private house.
  • Solar-powered and community-focused, with 60% local Maasai staff.
  • Offers access to a private conservancy and exceptional guiding.

Getting to Amboseli

By Road:

  • Approx. 4.5-hour drive (220 km) from Nairobi via Emali on Mombasa Road (A109)
  • 4×4 vehicle recommended, especially during rainy months

By Air:

  • Daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport and Mombasa to Amboseli Airstrip
  • Charter flights also available

When to Visit Amboseli National Park

The best time to visit Amboseli is during the dry months from June to October and January to February. These months offer the best wildlife viewing and the clearest views of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially early morning and late afternoon.

  • Dry Season: June – October & January – February
    Best for game drives and Kilimanjaro views.
  • Rainy Season: April
    Lush and great for birdwatching, but roads may become muddy.
  • Short Rains: November – December
    Beautiful green scenery, less predictable weather.

Signature Experiences

  • Daily 4×4 game drives with expert guides
  • Close encounters with Amboseli’s iconic elephants
  • Sunrise and sunset photography with Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Walking safaris and swamp-viewing from Observation Hill
  • Cultural immersion and village visits
  • Birdwatching with over 420 species

     

Why Choose Queen Elizabeth with Us

Step into the wild in royal style. From personalized itineraries to five-star stays, Queen Safaris turns your travel dreams into reality.

Why Choose Amboseli with
Queen of East Africa

Amboseli is where giants walk, traditions are honored, and Kilimanjaro reminds you that some places are too powerful to forget.