Wildlife in Amboseli National Park
Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to get close to large herds of free-ranging elephants. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Four of the “Big Five” can be found here: lions, elephants, leopards, and Cape buffalo. Rhinos are no longer present in the park. Other animals you can see include cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. The park’s swamps and marshlands are crucial habitats for many species and support a rich birdlife of over 400 species.
The Elephants of Amboseli
Amboseli is famous for its elephant population. It has been the site of a long-running elephant research project, making its elephants some of the most studied in the world. Visitors have an excellent opportunity to observe their complex social behaviors up close.
Things to Do in Amboseli
Your safari in Amboseli offers several unique experiences.
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse habitats on game drives to see the abundant wildlife, with the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Observation Hill: Climb this pyramid-shaped hill for panoramic views of the park, including the swamps where elephants, hippos, and buffalo gather.
- Cultural Visits: Visit a local Maasai village to learn about their traditional way of life and culture.
- Bird Watching: Discover the park’s incredible variety of birdlife, with over 400 species recorded.
- Photography: The combination of stunning landscapes and plentiful wildlife makes Amboseli a photographer’s dream.
Best Time to Visit Amboseli
| Month | Climate | Wildlife Viewing |
|---|---|---|
| January – February | Hot and dry. | Excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Clear views of Kilimanjaro are common. |
| March – May | Long rains. The landscape becomes green and lush. | Good for bird watching. Some roads may be difficult to navigate. Views of Kilimanjaro are best after rainfall. |
| June – October | Dry season, considered the best time to visit. | Wildlife is easier to spot as they congregate near swamps and rivers. The sky can be hazy. |
| November – December | Short rains. | A quieter season with good wildlife viewing and migratory birds present. |
Guide Tip
For the best chances of seeing Mount Kilimanjaro without its frequent cloud cover, plan to be out on an early morning or late afternoon game drive. The light is softer for photography at these times as well.
