- Kenya
- 392 km² (39,200 hectares)
- 1974
- Kajiado
- Famous for "Giant" tusker elephants and stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
- Low–moderate risk.
- ~2°38′S 37°14′E
- Unfenced; part of a larger ecosystem connecting to Tanzania.
- Dried-up lake bed, sulfur springs, wetlands, and open savannah.
- for the best elephant sightings at swamps; for clear views of Kilimanjaro.
Amboseli is second only to the Maasai Mara in popularity. Its unique selling point is the photographic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro (located across the border in Tanzania). The park is a sanctuary for some of Africa’s largest elephants, which thrive in the permanent swamps fed by the mountain's snowmelt.
- Meshanani, Remito, and Kimana Gates.
- Daily scheduled flights from Nairobi Wilson to Amboseli Airstrip (~35–45 minutes).
- ~4 hours from Nairobi via the Namanga road; the route is well-paved and accessible.
- Permanent water sources like Enkongo Narok provide a green oasis in an otherwise arid landscape.
- A seasonal, dry lake bed that produces shimmering mirages in the heat.
- Massive herds of several hundred often cross the plains together.
- Lion, cheetah, and spotted hyena are common.
- Over 400 species, including pelicans, kingfishers, and flamingos in the wetlands.
Elephants congregate in swamps; best wildlife viewing.
Best visibility of Mt. Kilimanjaro’s peak.
Birdwatching peaks; Mt. Kilimanjaro often hidden by clouds.
- Specifically geared toward capturing elephants with the mountain backdrop.
- Often available in the private conservancies bordering the park.
Amboseli is the best place in the world to get close to free-ranging elephants. It is a photographer's paradise, offering the most iconic "Postcard from Africa" views.