Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is in Kajiado county, Kenya.  The name Amboseli comes from a Maasai word “Empusel” meaning salty dust place. It is second most popular national park after the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It covers an area of 392 km2 with an endless underground water supply . Amboseli National Park is a great destination you should not miss while visiting the great nation of Kenya. Below are some the reasons as  to why you should visit the Park;

Amazing View of Mount Kilimanjaro

 Amboseli National Park offers beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro  which is   Africa’s tallest mountain. Mt.Kilimanjaro is the most popular mountain hiking and climbing destination in Africa attracting many visitors from all over the world.   Every year hikers take on the challenge of climbing to the highest spot on the mountain. The Observation Hill is one of the attractions in Amboseli national park and an famous spot for game viewing.  The Hill was formed due to volcanic activity from Mountain Kilimanjaro which caused the earth’s crust to rise.

Big herds of Elephant

Amboseli  is most famous for its elephant population which attract tourists from all over the world. The elephants  arrange themselves  against Africa’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro. Elephants are  members of the big five animals in Africa and they are the biggest among all the animals in the park. 

Amboseli National Park is Africa’s best spot for viewing large-range of elephants. The park is  one of the most popular parks in Kenya due to its views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the huge elephant herds that live in its boundaries .  The  Park has over 1600 elephants and because of hosting the large number of the elephants, Amboseli national park was declared as the UNESCO World Heritage site in the year 1991.

Birds in Amboseli National Park.

Amboseli national park is an important bird site in Kenya. The park is a home to over 600 types of  birds including raptor and rare bird species. For nature lover’s, it is a  paradise that has amazing  landscapes and different wildlife. The park is not only famous for its awesome elephants and amazing views of Mt.Kilimanjaro, It is also a hotspot for bird watchers ,with more than 420 types of bird in the park . Amboseli  provide a habitat for diffrent types of birds, making it a paradise for bird lovers. Here is a number birds to watch in Amboseli National Park;

The Secretary Bird holds a special place as one of Africa’s most greatest avian species and tops our 15 Birds to Watch in Amboseli National Park. Its tall and striking appearance makes it instantly recognizable.

The Superb Starling lives up to its name with its noticeable feathers. Its glossy blue and green feathers, with vibrant orange markings, create a captivating sight against the beautiful grasslands of Amboseli.

Crane Radiating elegance, the Grey-crowned Crane can be observed beautifully  walking through the wetlands of Amboseli.

To find Amboseli a very productive bird watching spot, one needs to get there during and just after the October-December rains. This is when local birds are joined by migrants from the Northern hemisphere, sometimes in fairly large numbers.

Wildlife in Amboseli

Amboseli national park is a home to a large wildlife. The wildlife is  estimated to be of  80 different species including African elephant, African buffalo, impalas, lion, zebra, and wildebeest . In addition, the park is a  famous habitat to a  a large population of elephants.

Amboseli National Park is  visited throughout the year by touriste. The best wildlife watching time of the park is in during the Dry season that is from  June to October. This is when animals gather around the swamp and other  water sources. When it’s dry, animals crossing the sandy plains kick up a lot of dust, offering great photo opportunities in the late afternoon. The dry spell between the rains, from January to February, is also be a great time for viewing the wildlife.

 The Park is  home to the Big Five, and his refers to the large animal  which are  deadly and dangerous. The Big Five include the Lions, Leopards, Rhinos, Elephants and the African Buffalo. The term Big Five was used by the big-game hunters when referring to the most difficult animals to hunt on foot in Africa.

Amboseli National Park offers you a breath taking experience and a sense of an African touch that surrounds the Maasai tribe . Found in the land near the park area, their culture, clothing, food ,name and a wild experience of the different wildlife species and birdlife as you plan to visit Kenya and this will make your experience fun filled and good to remember. When touring  the regions surrounding the park, you’ll come across the  Maasai culture,  clothing, traditional food and the  maasai  names. You will also come across the different types of wildlife and birds. As you plan your visit to Kenya, these elements combine to create a memorable and joyous experience that you’ll cherish.

The Maasai Culture

Amboseli park  borders are controlled  by the Maasai people. A visit to the Maasai village while in Amboseli National Park  is important  as it shows  the African culture.

The Maasai people have occupied the Amboseli region for centuries and they have a rich cultural heritage.

Additionally, guests have the  opportunity to visit the Maasai village and engage in genuine cultural exchanges.

Moreover, Maasai cultural traditions  are witnessed in the village and they include Maasai dances, traditional songs, and their unique way of addressing . This is similar to the Karamojong of Uganda. Additionally,  guests can also buy  local food dishes  Maasai artifacts.

 Additionally, there is  an annual 7 day Maasai gala organized in Loitoktok were most of  the culture, norms and traditional practices are showcased. The maasai annual Olympics  take place in kimana, a small town in Kajiado South.

 Travelers Learn about Maasai  beadwork, traditional dances, and the significance of the maasai red robes. Through storytelling and shared experiences, guests  gain a great appreciation for the Maasai deep connection with the land.

Amboseli National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kenya. With its amazing views, different wildlife, and rich culture, the park offers something for everyone. Visitors witness firsthand  conservation efforts and learn about the Maasai’s traditional way of life. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, bird-lover, or cultural lover, Amboseli National Park has something for everyone. 

Experience the Best of National Parks in Kenya

FAQs

1.What makes Amboseli a unique wildlife destination?

Amboseli is known for its large herds of elephants. The park is home to various wildlife, including the Big Five (Lions, Leopards, Rhinos, Elephants, and Buffalos).

2.What birdwatching opportunities are available in Amboseli National Park?

Amboseli is an important birding site, hosting over 600 bird species, including raptors and rare birds. The park is a paradise for bird lovers, offering opportunities to spot unique species such as the Secretary Bird, Superb Starling, and Grey-crowned Crane.

3.What cultural experiences can visitors enjoy in Amboseli?

Amboseli borders are controlled by the Maasai people, and visitors engage in cultural exchanges by visiting a Maasai village. The Maasai showcase their traditional dances, songs, beadwork, and unique way of life. Travelers also purchase local food dishes and Maasai artifacts.

4.Is Amboseli National Park part of the UNESCO World Heritage site?

Yes, Amboseli National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, due to its significant elephant population and amazing views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

5.What are some annual events related to Maasai culture near Amboseli?

The region hosts an annual 7-day Maasai gala in Loitoktok, showcasing Maasai culture, norms, and traditional practices. The Maasai annual Olympics take place in Kimana, providing additional insights into their unique way of life.

6.How does Amboseli contribute to conservation efforts?

Amboseli National Park actively engages in wildlife conservation, mainly focusing on the protection of elephants and their habitat. Visitors witness firsthand conservation efforts and learn about sustainable practices during their visit.