Amboseli National Park
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Why Go On A Safari To Amboseli Park
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s top safari destinations after Masai Mara, celebrated for its exceptional African big-tusked elephants and big cats (lions, and sometimes cheetahs), all set against the backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro; Amboseli Park is a prime safari destination for both photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. The name Amboseli comes from a Maasai word meaning ‘Salty Dust’.
Exciting travelers with its big skies, far horizons and spectacular landscapes, it hosts a good number of wildlife and countless number of bird species recorded on in its swamps and wetlands.
Its unique attraction lies in its authentic ability to offer an unforgettable safari experience in an inspiring natural setting on clear days Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit is clearly visible during early mornings and afternoons making it a superb backdrop for wildlife photography.
Home to Big Tuskers
Amboseli Landscape & Scenery
Like an oasis in the dry savannah, Amboseli is impressive with its emerald-green swamps beneath towering Mt. Kilimanjaro delivers a beautiful mix of landscapes and habitats that enables the park to shelter such amazing wildlife.
Amboseli has an endless underground water supply due to Mt. Kilimanjaro, and give rise to several swamps in the park which features (Savanna grassland, acacia woodland, rocky thorn bush, swamps and marshland) and covers part of a lake basin. Lake Amboseli is characterized by very alkaline water but is usually extremely dry and dusty during the hot and dry season, weather that characterizes Amboseli.
Dominated by views of Mt. Kilimanjaro the highest free-standing mountain in Africa and the hundreds of elephants foraging around the swamps it’s definitely a sight to see.
Top 8 Best Things To Do In Amboseli Park
Discover some of the best things to do in Amboseli, these are some of the attractions that you can add on to your Kenya safari package bringing some extra energy to your vacation. Â Visitors can enjoy game viewing, bird watching, picnics, wildlife safari photography, camping, cultural village visits and hot air balloon safaris.
The main activity in Amboseli is the guided game drive, which will take you around the park to look for animals and birds. Hot-air ballooning is a brilliant alternative. It’s an incredible experience to fly at dawn over the park with Mt Kilimanjaro hopefully free of clouds. The only place you’re allowed to leave your vehicle is at Observation Hill. Climb it on foot and enjoy a picnic with stunning views.
1. Safari Game Drives In Amboseli
The main activity in Amboseli Park is the guided game drives, which will take you around the park in search of animals and bird species. Â The game drives normally start as early as 6:00am.when the gates open, and involve the use of a 4X4 Land Cruiser Jeep with an open roof-top.
2. Hot Air Balloon Safari In Amboseli
Fly high up in the skies above the Amboseli, a balloon safari is truly the best way to view the Amboseli National Park, Mt. Kilimanjaro, local safari lodges and camps and the surrounding landscape.
Your flight take off starts prior to the sunrise, we rise slowly and start to float over the open plains of Amboseli, watching as the sun light up the wilderness slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Keep your eyes open and you will see one side of the park crowned by the magical Mt. Kilimanjaro, the world’s highest free standing mountain whereas on the other side, the view is of lush green wetlands, open savannah grassland and Lake Amboseli.
The balloon flight in Amboseli completes with a ”Champagne Bush Breakfast” at the balloon landing site in the wilderness. – A perfect way to end an unforgettable day.
3. Bush Meals, Campfire Dinners & Sundowners In Amboseli
Experience an unforgettable bush sundowner at Amboseli Observation Hill, where you will be served drinks and cocktails while watching the sight of the African sunset. This usually happens as the sun begins its descent, the sundowner begins with a gentle evening game drive, arriving at the sundowner site just as the evening sky turns gold-pink, surrounded by nothing but scenic views framed by stunning landscapes and magnificent wildlife.
Your safari chairs will be set up facing towards Mt.Kilimanjaro, and there will be a full mobile bar service and cocktail snacks. Musical entertainment can also be provided at request. After sunset you will be driven back to the lodge in time for dinner, passing the swamps at the ideal time to spot hippos out of the water.
4. Cultural Maasai Village Visit In Amboseli
Visiting a Maasai Village while on a safari to Kenya is one of the rare chances to experience a taste of local life while on your African vacation. Experience the captivating culture of the Maasai tribe on a visit to their village in Amboseli. Gain an insight and understanding about the ‘Maasai Culture ‘ which is one of the most famous tribes. From their everyday life, exciting dances, their colorful clothing’s as well as their pastoral lifestyle have attracted tourists across the globe from time to time.
Learn about the African traditional cultures where you’ll get a chance to look inside their houses and catch a glimpse of how their family structures, and of course if you wish you can buy some Maasai jewelry which you will first notice from colorful shukas they are wearing, and the brightly beaded jewelry – the bracelets, necklaces, and amulets the women and men are wearing – something to remind you of your Kenyan vacation.
While on a safari trip in African you can easily visit a Maasai village in Masai Mara or Amboseli – and if you buy the beaded jewelry from them it’s just meant to support the village.
5. Bush Walks & Walking Safaris In Amboseli
Guided bush walks in Amboseli are led by our expert guides and (a member of the park security team), who have knowledge of the landscape, flora and fauna of this breathtaking haven, on foot is the best way to explore this wilderness park, and by far an exciting way to experience a safari.
Together we will follow animal trails and tracks, with luck get up close to the resident eland, zebra and giraffe, learn about traditional uses of wild herbs & barks, and observe other smaller wildlife. For all Kenya walking safaris it’s advisable to move out earlier, before the heat builds up, allowing you enough time to explore Amboseli’s unique landscape at a more relaxed pace before you return to the lodge for breakfast.
6. Night Game Drives In Amboseli
Night drives in Amboseli Park – as the sun goes down, leave the lodge in the comfort of a 4×4 open-sided safari vehicle with a highly qualified, experienced guide for a chance to marvel at the wondrous night sky in search of the unique nocturnal wildlife found here… Look for animals not found during daylight hours such as Aardvark, Porcupine, Honeybadger, Pangolin, Bat-Eared Fox and Bushbaby.
The lights of our 4×4 safari vehicle illuminate an unseen world, unknown even to experienced safari adventurers. Spotting the shy nocturnal creatures who walk, feed and fight their way through the Bush at night can be a bit as exotic and exciting as sighting larger mammals during the day. The night game drive is strictly managed and monitored in ensuring minimal negative impact to the ecosystem.
7. Visit To Lake Amboseli
Lake Amboseli is a non-permanent lake with very alkaline water that floods during heavy rainfall and is filled by underground streams from Mt. Kilimanjaro and the Chyulu Hills. While on your game drive, observe along the streams are large papyrus swamps that form the only permanent water source for the animals in the park. The swamps attract large numbers of animals such as elephants, flamingoes, hippos, buffaloes and many more, the area is surrounded by very tall Acacia trees.
8. Amboseli Observation Hill
This pyramid-shaped hill is one of the only places in the park where you can get out during your safari in Amboseli and walk/hike.
Long ago the Observation Hill was referred to as the poacher’s hill, and currently it’s one of the famous attractions in Amboseli, offering visitors a 360 degrees panoramic view of the Park and hiking is worth the effort. The peak provides an ideal lookout from which you can watch as you admire the plains, swamps and roads below. The views from here are also pretty special, whether south to Kilimanjaro or east across the swamps. If lucky you might witness the wildlife foraging the park, but the views here put them in their context.
Animals & Wildlife At Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park tops the list as one of Kenya’s most popular parks and offers great wildlife viewing. Amboseli is home to African bush elephant, Cape buffalo, impala, lion, serval cat, cheetah, spotted hyena, Masai giraffe, Grant’s zebra, blue wildebeest, and a good number of large and small birds can be seen in its swamps and wetlands.
Notably, the park is famous for its big tusked elephants, then again most of the African big 5 safari animals can be spotted here. As for the rhinos, they are no longer found here while sightings of leopards are rare, but keep in mind the other three of the Big Five are present. Even though we can’t guarantee all the Big 5 in Amboseli (Rhinos and Leopard); don’t let that discourage you because they are easily found elsewhere in Kenya (Lake Nakuru National Park and Ol Pejeta Conservancy is fantastic for rhino and the Masai Mara for leopard).
Home to Big Tusked Elephants
Wildlife Sightings At Amboseli National Park
Celebrated for its exceptional game viewing, the free roaming Elephants are Amboseli’s golden highlight here. The vegetation here and its terrain makes it easy for wildlife spotting and photography, the perfect opportunity for an up close view of up to fifty herds of elephants in one safari, with some of the elephants spending their time foraging in the park’s swamps.
Occasional sightings of Cheetah and lion are equally common, in addition to views of the spotted hyena. Make sure to watch out for bohor reedbuck, jackal and civet, making it the best wildlife-viewing destinations for both photography safaris and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Best Time For Wildlife Viewing At Amboseli National Park
While Amboseli National Park is beautiful all year round, the best time to visit Amboseli for wildlife watching is in the Dry months which happens from June to October and January to February which are good for game viewing when animals gather around marshes and other water sources to quench their thirst.
Home to big 5 safaris
Birds At Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park is a paradise for birdwatching safaris. With over 420 bird species recorded in the park, and 47 raptor species, it is a good birding destination for bird lovers.
Along the swamps and Lake Amboseli, watch out for the waterbirds such as egrets, herons, pelicans and crowned cranes. However, during the rainy season which happens from March to May and November to December, expect large numbers of flamingoes which may be present. Additionally along the wide open Amboseli grasslands keep an eye out for other bird species such as the Hartlaub’s bustard and local Pangani longclaw, white-bellied go-away bird and Von der Decken’s hornbill.
Famous Birds In Amboseli Park
African jacana, Goliath heron, Grey crowned crane, Hartlaub’s bustard & Rufous chatterer
List Of Birds In Amboseli Park
African swamphen, Common redshank, Dickinson’s kestrel, Eurasian thick-knee, Greater flamingo, Hartlaub’s bustard, Lesser flamingo, Long-toed lapwing, Pangani longclaw, Rufous chatterer, Rufous-bellied heron, Spike-heeled lark, Steel-blue whydah, Taveta golden weaver (NE), Von der Decken’s hornbill, White-bellied go-away bird, and Yellow-necked spurfowl.
Best Time For Birding Safari In Amboseli Park
Amboseli being a good bird viewing destination throughout the year, the best months happen from December to March. Keep in mind, the local birds can be spotted at any time while the migratory birds arrive and fills the park from November to April even though it’s a wet season.
Best Time To Visit Amboseli National Park
While Amboseli National Park is beautiful all year round, it is best to go during the dry months of June to October and January to February, during this time there is little to no rainfall, and wildlife gathers around the watering holes making it easier for safari goers to spot them during game drives.
Additionally, this dusty period offers you the best chances for clear Kilimanjaro views even though the views can be even more perfect during the wet season from November to May, when the sky is clear of dust.
Amboseli feels desert like at times, reflecting its dryness – which comes from the Masaai word for ‘Salty Dust’. It is worth noting that the dry month’s matches the peak safari season in Kenya, attracting crowds of tourists from all over the world who come to see the Great Migration safari in the Masai Mara. The same travelers usually book safari trips to Amboseli, making sure they explore these premium Kenyan parks.
The drier months of the year, from January to February and June to October, are the best times to go to Amboseli. The animals are out in the open sparse vegetation. However, keep in mind that the park gets very busy at these times.
Amboseli Safari Packages
Find a trip to Kenya. Browse our recommended Kenya tour packages or simply get in touch with one of our Africa safari experts to help custom-make your Kenya safari itinerary that matches your travel wishes; from exciting wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world white sand beach holiday tours, it’s a journey designed to immerse you in the extraordinary.
9 Days | 8 Nights
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Weather & Climate At Amboseli National Park
The weather in Amboseli is characterized by a tropical climate which is hot and dry just like any other part of Kenya with average day temperatures ranging from 28°C/82°F and 15°C/59°F at night.
The least rainy month in Amboseli is June to October and January to February which are the dry months. As for your early morning game drives in Amboseli, we recommend some warm clothing because it might be too chilly. The rainiest month in Amboseli usually happens from mid-March to mid-May whereas the short rains are from late October or November to mid-December.
This type of weather is influenced by factors such as mountains, swamps, open savannah grasslands and others.
Amboseli Dry Season–June to October
These are the dry seasons characterized by bright, sunny days – there is no rainfall.
June & July, these months are usually sunny with pleasant temperatures of around 26°C/79°F.
Both months of August & September are characterized by a rise in daytime temperatures with an average of 27°C/81°F in September.
The month of October is very hot and humid with short rains beginning at the end of this month.
Amboseli Wet Season–November to May
Amboseli’s wet season is marked by short rains followed by the long rains. January and February are part of the dry months in between.
The months of November & December mark the start of the short rains in Amboseli. During this period, expect short afternoon storms with daytime temperatures at an average of 28°C (82°F), which can rise.
Both January & February marks the start and end of the dry period in Amboseli with the timing a little challenging to predict. Nonetheless, February is hotter with average afternoon temperatures reaching 30°C/86°F or even higher.
The months of March, April & May in Amboseli marks the long rainy season. The rains usually begin from mid- march through to late April which is the wettest of them all. The rainfall is in form of short afternoon showers. Expect temperatures in the afternoon to reach 30°C/86°F.
Frequently Asked Amboseli Safari Questions
Q. When is the best time to visit Amboseli National Park?
As for the documentations you need for your holiday in Kenya, keep in mind entry requirements can change, so please contact your local Kenyan embassy or high commission to verify that the following information below is up to date.
-A passport is required for all foreign visitors and must be valid for at least six months.
-No visa is required. Instead, all visitors must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).
-Visitors must apply in advance for the eTA on www.etakenya.go.ke.
-The standard processing time is three days, but you can apply up to three months prior to travel and early application is recommended.
-When arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the Americas, a yellow-fever vaccination certificate is required.
-For more information we strongly direct checking the website of your local Kenyan embassy/high commission or the government travel advisories below:
Australia   –   www.smartraveller.gov.au
Canada   –   travel.gc.ca
EU Member States   –   ec.europa.eu
Ireland   –   www.ireland.ie
New Zealand   –   www.safetravel.govt.nz
United Kingdom   –   www.gov.uk
United States   –   travel.state.gov
Q. How much does a safari in Amboseli National Park cost?
The cost for a Kenya safari starts from USD $250 to USD $2,500 per person per day depending on your level of safari; either travelling on a mid-range comfort safari or a luxury Kenya safari. Talk to one of our African travel experts to ensure the best Kenya safari experience in line with your time and budget. Your final Kenya safari cost depends on the following factors:
– Time of year you’re travelling; low and high season prices.
– Your choice of luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps.
– Duration of your stay in Kenya.
– Where you are visiting and in what means, you have the option to choose between fly-in Kenya safaris or by road, using a comfy 4 X 4 Land Cruiser jeep with open rooftop. The cost for the two greatly differ.
– Your choice of additional safari activities which range from inclusive wildlife activities to optional activities like hot air balloon rides and visits to the Masai villages for cultural interactions.
Q. How to get to Amboseli National Park?
About medicine on your trip to Kenya, we recommend anti-malarial medication no matter what time of year you plan on visiting Kenya for safari. Kindly consult with your doctor at home for advice on the right choice of prophylaxis for your body well in advance of your departure date. Additionally, if you live in a yellow fever region or plan to travel through a region where it is endemic during your stay, you will need a yellow fever vaccination and certificate.
Q. What animals can I see in Amboseli National Park?
With hundreds of excellent luxury safari lodges and tented safari camps, you will be spoilt with lots of choices to pick from during your stay. But worry not, we will help you select the best lodges to stay in during your trip.
Additionally, when we talk about safari standards, the service level is high, with the ability to deliver the best luxury African safaris, suitable accommodations from lavish safari lodges to modern day boutique hotels and classic tented safari camps.
We shall share our list of top luxury accommodation options in Kenya – from eco-friendly architecture to the best luxury tented camps with a front-row seat to experience African wildlife mostly near game viewing hot spots like the Mara River where the Wildebeest Migration safari takes place. Our list of the best Kenya safari lodges also covers mid-range camps which can come in handy If you are travelling on budget.
Q. When is Amboseli National Park open?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Q. Do you need to book in advance to visit Amboseli National Park
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Q. What’s the best way to see Amboseli National Park?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Q. What hotels, lodges, and camps are near Amboseli National Park?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Q. What attractions are near Amboseli National Park?
When you think of Africa, Kenya is most likely the image you have in mind. Therefore, some of the top 10 best places to visit in Kenya, include the following destinations;
- Masai Mara: Catch the Wildebeest Migration & all year-round excellent game-viewing.
- Lamu Archipelago: Experience a classic barefoot luxury beach experience.
- Nairobi City: Feed the giraffes and visit the baby elephant’s shelter.
- Mombasa & Kenya Beaches: Explore coastal family resorts & luxury lodges, good with family trips to Kenya.
- Amboseli National Park: Photography safari destination, watch the big tusked elephants and the best views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia: Kenya’s hidden gem; visit the chimpanzee sanctuary, feed and touch the blind rhino and spend your nights in some of the top luxury lodges.
- Mount Kenya: for the mountain trekking enthusiasts, go on a 5 days trekking tour at Mount Kenya (the second tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru: Excellent game viewing, from rhino’s, leopards, tree climbing lions, endangered giraffes to birdlife, Lake Nakuru has it all.
- Shaba and Samburu: Kenya’s hidden gem, more than a wilderness where the special 5 wildlife roam; additionally, all the big 5 are here.
- Kenya South-Coast beaches.
Kenya Safari Reservations
Q. What type of clothes do I wear on Kenya safari?
Pack lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing for a Kenyan safari, including long sleeves, pants, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings on game drives. For more details, we suggest you do your own safari packing essentials and find out what fits your interests.
Browse our safari clothing packing advice on what to pack for your African tour:
- Lightweight trousers /shorts and t-shirts remain ideal for the daytime drives.
- Lightweight jacket / fleece for the early mornings and evenings.
- Remember to also pack some warm socks and a woolly hat would be suggested for early morning and evening game drives.
- Hiking shoes
Other items we would suggest you bring along with you include:
- Sunscreen glasses & hat/cap
- Comfy Shoes / Sandals
- Flip Flops to wear during the day
- A Torch / Lamp
- Binoculars
- Phone/laptop charger
- Pack your medication, and a spare set of spectacles or contact lenses if you wear these.
Q. What is the best time to see the Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The best time to witness the dramatic Masai Mara wildebeest migration in Kenya is typically between mid-July through mid-September where your chances of witnessing a river crossing are generally much higher. In early October marks the end of the herd crossing the river from Kenya down into Tanzania, as thunderstorms begin in the north the herds will embark on their return journey back to the Serengeti.
Checkout our Migration safari offers.
Q. Kenya Vs Tanzania: Which Is Better for an African Safari?
Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.
Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.
Q. Will I have a private vehicle or shared game drives with other people?
We tend to enforce a maximum person per vehicle policy of 6. Meaning, although you’ll be sharing with other guests, everyone will get a side-view seat with unhindered views.
Some trips are designed in such a way that a private vehicle and guide are included for a portion of the trip, but the use of a private vehicle throughout your safari comes at an additional cost.
Kenya Flying Safaris
Q. How many days do you need for an Africa safari?
The ideal duration for an East Africa safari package often ranges from 5 to 14 days, this allows you to enjoy a comfortable and a well-rounded rewarding safari experience during this African tour package. It also depends on the destinations you will visit, wildlife interests, and personal preferences.
Q. What do I do in case of an emergency?
We have a 24 hour emergency line. If anything goes south, we’re ready to assist you regardless of time or date.
Q. Are there malaria mosquito nets in Africa safari tented camps?
Many tented camps in Africa provide fitted mosquito nets in all rooms which are also insect proofed to protect you against malaria mosquito bites and other insect bites, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay.
It’s also advisable to carry insect repellent to further protect yourself especially in the outdoors during evenings.
Q. Is there Wi-Fi at the safari lodges & tented camps on safari?
Almost all Africa safari lodges and tented camp accommodations during your safari provide free Wi-Fi. You’ll find this available in all three accommodation levels – comfort or luxury accommodations.
Wi-Fi is provided in the public areas of the safari lodges/tented camps including the reception, dining areas, and lounge. It is not provided in the individual rooms/tents.
Moreover, because you will be inside a wilderness park, we still request that you come prepared with your own network data to avoid any inconveniences.
Kenya Safari Payment Methods
Q. Do you provide drinking water on safari?
East Africa is within the tropics and near the Equator, separating the northern and southern hemispheres. The tropical temperatures are relatively high on the safari route and even within the national parks/game reserves.
Because you’ll need to frequently hydrate during your safari, we ensure unlimited supplies of drinking water.
All Vulture Africa Safari vehicles are fitted with a cooler box or mini fridge with a constant supply of cool, bottled water.
We replenish our supplies of drinking water during stops along the safari route.
Here’s everything you need to know about packing for your Africa safari trip.
Q. Are mosquito nets provided in safari lodge rooms/tents?
We carefully research and choose our selection of top safari lodges and tented camps to offer the best in terms of comfort, relaxation, amenities, and atmosphere during your safari.
We fully understand the need for your protection against mosquitos and other insects.
All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites.
Tented camp showing bedroom with mosquito nets
You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself especially outdoors in the evenings.
Q. Is it possible to store excess luggage while on safari?
Vulture African Safaris understands that your holiday travel may be lengthy and could involve different activities during your trip. You may find the need to store some of your luggage at various times.
You can safely store your extra luggage at our Nairobi office for safekeeping until you have completed your safari.
This is a free service extended to all our safari guests.
Packing luggage for an East African safari holiday tour
Additionally, our 4×4 safari Jeeps accommodate generous luggage space in its rear luggage compartment.
Q. Do you handle requests for special dietary needs?
Kenya and Tanzania welcomes visitors from all over the world and their diverse diet preferences. These preferences may be due to religious beliefs, lifestyles, or health concerns.
The menus in all safari lodges & tented camps are continental cuisine however, vegetarian, kosher, halal, gluten-free, etc. meals are also provided.
We request you indicate your special diet needs during safari booking/confirmation.
Why Book Your Safari in Advance?
Q. Do you provide airport hotel airport transfers when we arrive and depart Nairobi?
As part of our safari tour services, Vulture African Safaris provides free pickup and return to the airport/hotel for any guests who are booked for a 3-day or more safari tour with us.
The transfers are provided even if you arrive or depart several days before or after your safari start/end.
Please let us know your arrival & departure flight details including airline codes and arrival/departure times. We will provide you with the name of your driver and telephone contact in advance of your arrival/departure.
Q. Do you book or can you recommend a Nairobi hotel for our pre or post-safari stay?
If you are arriving in Nairobi earlier than your safari starting date or are intending to stay a few days more after your safari finish, you will require a Nairobi hotel.
Our listed safari tours and advertised prices do not include your Nairobi hotel.
Nairobi has a wide range of hotels in the economy, comfort, and luxury categories suitable for your 1 night or extended stay.
As part of your safari tour, Vulture Africa Safaris will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your respective Nairobi hotel or residence. This includes most areas around Nairobi.
We suggest that you look up and book online your preferred Nairobi hotel. If you should require advice, suggestions, or booking assistance for your Nairobi hotel, we will be happy to assist.
We can make suggestions depending on your budget and what area of the city you are interested in staying.
Q. Can we purchase a local Sim card for use while in Kenya?
A Kenyan Sim card will greatly reduce your telephone roaming bills during your visit and while on safari in Kenya
1 GB of data costs an average of $5.
Safaricom, a telco provider in Kenya is the market leader with the best national coverage and better deals.
Sim cards can be purchased from official stores or approved resellers. You can purchase them at the Nairobi airport upon arrival. Cost is approximately $1 or Ksh.100
To purchase local sim cards, you are required to have a Sim-unlocked GSM-compatible phone.
Q. What are your recommended safari tipping guidelines?
Tipping in guidelines for Kenya and Tanzania safaris – although not mandatory, is expected in return for good service.
All hotels, lodges, and porterage gratuities are included in the cost of your safari – these are collectively referred to as the service charge.
You may also decide to tip individual waiters, porters, and other hotel service employees who provide exemplary service. Usually, $1 – $5 per meal or move is appropriate and appreciated.
It is, however, customary to tip your safari driver/guide at the end of the safari tour. The amount is dependent on your evaluation of the quality of the service rendered. An average of $10 per guest per day or 5-10% of your safari-only cost is suggested. However, the amount is at your discretion – you are welcome to provide additional compensation to any staffer who has provided special services. A bar gratuity of $1 is acceptable.
You may tip in Kenya shillings, USD, or in Euro at the end of your safari and preferably in an envelope.