Amboseli National Park day tour | Annest Kenya Safaris
What you could see at
Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha Day Safari Tour
- Flamingo
- Buffalo
- Leopard
- Lion
- Thomson’s Gazelle
- Giraffe
- Serval Cat
- Baboon
- Klipspringer
- Antelopes
- Rhino
- Impala
- Zebra
- Eland
- Hartbeest
An Amboseli National Park Day Tour offers an unforgettable experience in one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife destinations, known for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large herds of elephants. Located approximately 240 kilometers southeast of Nairobi, Amboseli National Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Africa and witness wildlife in its purest form. This day tour is perfect for those with limited time but still seeking a full safari experience, complete with stunning landscapes and close encounters with Kenya’s wildlife.
Early Morning Departure
The tour begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Nairobi, usually around 5:00 or 6:00 AM. The early start is crucial to make the most of your day in the park, as wildlife is most active during the cooler hours of the morning. As you travel toward Amboseli, you’ll pass through picturesque Kenyan countryside, with opportunities to enjoy views of the rolling savannahs and local villages along the way.
The journey takes about 4 hours, and upon arrival at the park’s entrance, you’ll immediately notice the imposing silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. On a clear day, the snow-capped summit provides an awe-inspiring backdrop to the park’s wildlife and landscapes. As you enter the park, you’re greeted by the sight of open plains, swamps, and acacia trees that define Amboseli’s unique ecosystem.
Game Drive in Amboseli National Park
The highlight of the Amboseli day tour is a game drive through the park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Amboseli is particularly famous for its large population of elephants. The park’s swamps and marshes provide a consistent source of water, attracting elephants year-round, and you’ll likely see families of these gentle giants roaming the plains or bathing in the water. The sight of elephants walking in front of Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most iconic and photographed images in Africa.
In addition to elephants, Amboseli is also home to lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and wildebeests. The park’s smaller predators, such as jackals and serval cats, can also be spotted, along with herbivores like impalas and gazelles. Your expert guide will navigate through the best areas for wildlife sightings, ensuring you have ample opportunities to photograph and observe the animals in their natural habitat.
The park’s swamps are a major attraction for birdwatchers, as they attract a variety of bird species, including pelicans, kingfishers, and African jacanas. In total, there are over 400 bird species in Amboseli, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for the majestic African fish eagle, one of the park’s most iconic birds.
Spectacular Views of Mount Kilimanjaro
One of the most remarkable features of a visit to Amboseli is the panoramic view of Mount Kilimanjaro, which looms majestically over the park. At 5,895 meters, Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, and its snow-capped peak contrasts beautifully with the dry, dusty plains below. While the mountain itself is located across the border in Tanzania, Amboseli provides some of the best viewpoints for visitors to take in its grandeur.
As you move through the park, your guide will lead you to areas where Kilimanjaro is most visible, providing excellent opportunities for photography. On a clear day, the views are simply spectacular, with herds of elephants and other wildlife grazing beneath the towering peak.
Lunchtime Break
After a morning of wildlife viewing, the tour includes a break for lunch, typically at one of the lodges within or near the park. These lodges offer a comfortable setting to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in views of the surrounding wilderness. Depending on the tour operator, lunch may be a picnic or a buffet-style meal at the lodge, where you can unwind and discuss the day’s sightings with your guide.
During this time, you’ll also have the chance to explore the lodge’s grounds, which are often frequented by animals like baboons, vervet monkeys, and even giraffes. The lodge provides an ideal setting to recharge before heading out for the afternoon game drive.
Afternoon Game Drive and Swamp Exploration
Following lunch, the tour continues with another game drive, focusing on exploring some of Amboseli’s unique features, including its expansive swamps. These swamps are fed by underground rivers from Mount Kilimanjaro’s melting glaciers, providing a permanent water source in an otherwise dry region. The Enkongo Narok and Ol Okenya swamps are particularly active areas, where large concentrations of elephants, hippos, and other wildlife congregate to drink and cool off.
The swamps also offer a rich feeding ground for birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. You might also see animals like zebras, wildebeests, and buffaloes wading through the water or grazing along the edges of the wetlands. The afternoon light provides a softer, golden hue to the landscape, enhancing the beauty of the park and offering more ideal conditions for photography.
Afternoon Game Drive and Swamp Exploration
After a full day of exploring Amboseli National Park, you’ll begin the journey back to Nairobi in the late afternoon. The drive back offers time to reflect on the day’s experiences and enjoy the changing colors of the African sky as the sun begins to set. You’ll arrive back in Nairobi in the evening, typically around 6:00 or 7:00 PM, with unforgettable memories and photos of your Amboseli adventure.
Tour Highlights
- Elephants and Mount Kilimanjaro: Amboseli is world-renowned for its large elephant herds set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Diverse Wildlife: The park is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and more, offering excellent game-viewing opportunities.
- Birdwatching: With over 400 bird species, Amboseli is a haven for birdwatchers, especially around its swamps and wetlands.
- Cultural Insight: Optional visit to a Maasai village for an authentic cultural experience, learning about their traditional lifestyle.
Tour Price Includes
Not Included In the Tour Price:
- Tour in our Standard Customized Pop-top 4WD Toyota Land cruiser Jeep.
- Services of an experienced English /other language speaking driver/ guide.
- Amboseli National Park entry permit.
- Game viewing drives
- Breakfast
- Buffet Lunch at the Amboseli
- Bottled drinking water in safari vehicle
- Pick up /drop off at Nairobi hotel or residence.
– Bottled & Soft Drinks
– Items and services of a personal nature
– Tips & Gratuities.
