Amboseli National Park is a renowned wildlife destination in Kenya that attracts thousands of tourists every year. One of the key aspects to consider when planning a trip to this beautiful park is choosing the right lodge to stay in. In this article, we will explore some of the top lodges in Amboseli National Park, highlighting their unique features and amenities.
1. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge:
Nestled in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge offers breathtaking views of the mountain and the vast plains of Amboseli. The lodge provides comfortable accommodation in its spacious rooms and suites, all designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool or indulge in a relaxing massage at the spa. The lodge also offers game drives and guided nature walks for a memorable wildlife experience.
2. Tortilis Camp:
Situated on the edge of Amboseli National Park, Tortilis Camp provides guests with an authentic safari experience. The camp features spacious and luxurious tents, each offering panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Guests can savor delicious meals prepared with fresh local ingredients and enjoy sundowners while admiring the stunning African sunset. Guided bush walks, game drives, and cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages are also available.
3. Ol Tukai Lodge:
Located in the heart of Amboseli, Ol Tukai Lodge offers comfortable accommodation with stunning views of the park and its wildlife. The lodge features spacious rooms and cottages, all equipped with modern amenities. Guests can unwind by the swimming pool or enjoy a drink at the bar overlooking the park. The lodge organizes daily game drives and nature walks, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with Amboseli’s diverse wildlife.
4. Amboseli Sopa Lodge:
Set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli Sopa Lodge offers a tranquil and serene environment for visitors. The lodge boasts well-appointed rooms and suites, each tastefully designed to provide utmost comfort. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy a game of tennis, or indulge in a massage at the spa. The lodge also organizes guided game drives and bird-watching excursions for nature enthusiasts.
5. Amboseli Porini Camp:
For those seeking an intimate and eco-friendly safari experience, Amboseli Porini Camp is the perfect choice. The camp consists of spacious and luxurious tents, each with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas. Guests can enjoy delicious meals prepared with organic ingredients and relax in the communal lounge area. The camp offers guided game drives, bush walks, and night safaris, providing a unique opportunity to spot Amboseli’s nocturnal wildlife.
When planning your visit to Amboseli National Park, consider the location, amenities, and activities offered by each lodge to choose the one that suits your preferences. Whether you prefer a luxurious experience or a more rustic adventure, Amboseli has a range of lodges to cater to every traveler’s needs. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable safari experience in Amboseli National Park.
Why Was Amboseli Lodge Abandoned?
Amboseli Lodge was abandoned due to disruptions in inbound air traffic and the subsequent diversion of flights to Tawi and Ol Doinyo Uas strips. As a result, transfer times to the lodges increased up to three hours, causing inconvenience to tourists. This led to a surge in complaints on social media platforms, which in turn resulted in numerous cancellations of bookings. The significant revenue losses incurred by the hotels and the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) further contributed to the decision to abandon Amboseli Lodge. The disruptions and subsequent negative impact on tourism created an unsustainable situation for the lodge, making it unviable to continue its operations.
How Many Days Do You Need In Amboseli?
To fully experience Amboseli National Park, it is recommended to allocate at least 3 days and 2 nights for your visit. This duration allows you ample time to explore the park and its diverse wildlife, as well as take in the stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to do during each day of your 3-day visit:
Day 1:
– Arrive at Amboseli National Park and check-in to your accommodation.
– Embark on an afternoon game drive to start spotting the park’s abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, zebras, and various bird species.
– Enjoy a sundowner while taking in the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kilimanjaro.
– Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
Day 2:
– Start your day with an early morning game drive to catch the animals during their most active hours.
– Explore different areas of the park, such as the swamps and grasslands, to spot a wider range of wildlife.
– Take a break for lunch at a scenic spot within the park.
– Continue with game drives in the afternoon, searching for more wildlife and enjoying the picturesque landscapes.
– Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3:
– Begin the day with a final game drive, giving you the opportunity to spot any animals you may have missed during the previous days.
– Take a guided nature walk to learn more about the park’s ecosystem and its flora and fauna.
– Enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area within the park.
– Depart from Amboseli National Park, taking with you unforgettable memories of your wildlife encounters and breathtaking views.
By spending 3 days in Amboseli, you allow yourself a comprehensive experience of the park’s wildlife and natural beauty. This duration also provides some flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as unfavorable weather conditions or unexpected wildlife sightings.
Which Is Better Masai Mara Or Amboseli?
When considering which is better between Masai Mara and Amboseli, it’s important to note that both parks offer unique and wonderful experiences. However, there are certain factors that differentiate them, allowing you to make an informed choice based on your preferences.
Masai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its abundant wildlife and incredible biodiversity. Here are some key features of the Masai Mara:
1. Wildlife Diversity:
– The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo).
– You can also spot other animals such as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and various antelope species.
2. The Great Wildebeest Migration:
– Masai Mara is one of the prime locations to witness the annual Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures.
– This natural spectacle is a breathtaking sight and draws visitors from all over the world.
3. Beautiful Landscapes:
– Masai Mara offers stunning landscapes, including vast savannahs, rolling hills, and acacia woodlands.
– The picturesque setting provides a perfect backdrop for wildlife photography and scenic game drives.
On the other hand, Amboseli National Park has its own distinct features that make it a worthwhile destination:
1. Iconic Views of Mount Kilimanjaro:
– Amboseli is renowned for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.
– The park’s flat plains and swamps provide a unique setting for wildlife photography, with the majestic mountain as a backdrop.
2. Abundance of Elephants:
– Amboseli is famous for its large elephant population, offering excellent opportunities to observe and photograph these magnificent creatures up close.
– The park’s open terrain allows for clear visibility and memorable encounters with elephants in their natural habitat.
3. Birdwatching:
– Amboseli is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with over 400 bird species recorded in the park.
– Flamingos, pelicans, herons, and various raptors are just some of the birds you can spot during your visit.
While both Masai Mara and Amboseli offer incredible wildlife experiences, Masai Mara stands out for its diverse range of wildlife and the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration. On the other hand, Amboseli is renowned for its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the abundance of elephants. Consider your preferences, such as wildlife diversity, landscape beauty, and specific animal sightings, to make the best choice for your safari adventure.
Is Amboseli National Park Worth Visiting?
Amboseli National Park is definitely worth visiting for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is renowned for its diverse range of animals and stunning landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Here are some reasons why Amboseli National Park is worth a visit:
1. Abundance of wildlife: Amboseli is home to a wide variety of animals, including large herds of African bush elephants, African buffalos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and impalas. You will also have the opportunity to spot predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, as well as smaller mammals like dik-diks and vervet monkeys.
2. Birdwatching paradise: The park boasts over 400 species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. From majestic raptors like the African fish eagle and martial eagle to colorful flamingos and numerous waterbirds, Amboseli offers a rich birding experience.
3. Magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro: Amboseli is known for its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. The park’s open plains and swamps provide the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs of the mountain, especially during sunrise and sunset.
4. Cultural encounters: The Maasai people, known for their vibrant culture and traditional way of life, inhabit the areas surrounding Amboseli National Park. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with the Maasai community, learn about their customs and traditions, and even participate in cultural activities like traditional dances and crafts.
5. Guided tours and activities: Amboseli offers a range of guided tours and activities, including game drives, nature walks, and visits to Maasai villages. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystem and allow you to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty.
Amboseli National Park is worth visiting due to its abundant wildlife, diverse bird species, stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, cultural encounters, and a variety of guided tours and activities. It promises a memorable and enriching experience for anyone who appreciates nature and wildlife.
Conclusion
Amboseli National Park lodges offer a unique and unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Despite the recent disruptions in air traffic, the park remains a must-visit destination in Kenya. With its small size, it is recommended to book a 3-day 2-night tour to fully explore and appreciate the park’s beauty.
One of the main highlights of Amboseli is its abundance of elephants. If you have a fondness for these majestic creatures, Amboseli is the place to be. The park is known for its large herds of African bush elephants, providing ample opportunities for up-close encounters and stunning photography.
Beyond elephants, Amboseli is also home to a wide range of other animals and bird species. From African buffalos and giraffes to hyenas, lions, impalas, and cheetahs, the park offers a diverse and vibrant wildlife experience. Bird lovers will also be delighted by the numerous species that call Amboseli home.
When it comes to accommodation, Amboseli National Park lodges provide comfortable and convenient options for visitors. Despite the recent challenges with air traffic diversions, the lodges are well-equipped to cater to tourists’ needs. However, it is advisable to check with the lodges beforehand to ensure smooth transfers and minimize any inconvenience.
A trip to Amboseli National Park promises an incredible adventure filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you are a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or a bird watcher, Amboseli offers a unique and enriching experience that should not be missed. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a memorable journey in the heart of Kenya’s natural beauty.
