Amboseli Safari: An Honest Review of a 2-Day Adventure

Dreaming of seeing elephants roam freely with the mighty Kilimanjaro as a backdrop? Then, very possibly, Amboseli National Park in Kenya has to be on your radar. A short, 2-day safari, like your regular weekend getaway, it is a great way to sample the beauty and wildness of East Africa without completely blowing your vacation time… or your savings! Very likely you are curious what such a trip actually looks like, what you can expect, and if it’s actually worth it. So, honestly, here is a peek at my own experience, filled with tips and tidbits to assist you make a really good choice.

What to Expect on Your Short Amboseli Getaway

Now, before we go any further, really picture this: the alarm buzzes way too early, you get in a 4×4 vehicle, and begin the ride. The initial part of the drive from Nairobi may be a little bumpy, like any road trip, so perhaps bring a good playlist or an engaging podcast. But, really once you arrive near the park, things become far more interesting.

The transition is quite distinct – suddenly, the tarmac yields to dirt roads, and the air grows warmer, so filled with the smell of dust and dry grass. Just a little further, and you will discover that the landscape is breathtaking. It stretches out like you won’t believe, with flat plains meeting the sort of distant, hazy silhouette of Kilimanjaro. Then, apparently the wildlife starts making appearances right away. You might spot giraffes munching on treetops, zebras grazing peacefully, and perhaps a glimpse of predators like lions or hyenas lurking in the distance.

Speaking of animals, Amboseli is arguably renowned for its elephants, lots and lots of elephants. You are quite likely to observe these giant creatures in family units, interacting, playing, and heading directly toward watering holes. Really the sight of a big bull elephant, with massive tusks against the background of Kilimanjaro, really it’s something that will be with you forever.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Let’s be real for a minute, game drives are almost always the highlight of any safari, and Amboseli definitely doesn’t disappoint. Typically you will be spending a good chunk of your day out exploring the park. The best times for sightings are usually early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when the animals are really active due to the milder climate.

With respect to what you will actually see, just picture everything. Besides the obvious majestic elephants, you are really likely to see a huge cast of other wildlife. Think lions, leopards, cheetahs (if you’re quite lucky!), giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, different types of gazelles, and lots of bird species. It’s a pretty remarkable sight. Remember that, just like in real life, animal sightings are not ever totally guaranteed. Still, Amboseli generally offers outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities because of its relatively small size and open landscape.

It’s worth noting that guides communicate with each other, usually, which heightens your prospects of finding rarer creatures. They often share locations of recent sightings, very ensuring that you do not pass up on seeing something spectacular. So, if you are an avid photographer, that don’t overlook taking advantage of the available sunlight and the expertise of your guide, too, so to snap some wonderful photos.

Where to Stay: Lodges and Camps

Now, just because you’re in the wild doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort. So many places offer lodging options inside and just outside Amboseli catering to an array of budgets and preferences. The choice of where to stay really can actually enhance your safari in many different ways.

The lodges often supply fully furnished rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and even things such as swimming pools – that you can fully enjoy following a dust-filled afternoon. Some lodges are constructed to supply magnificent viewpoints of Kilimanjaro, enabling you to wake up to really magnificent vistas.

Lodges include options for those looking for all the standard facilities and great food, so maybe research places such as Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge or Ol Tukai Lodge. If you prefer something that gives you that natural vibe, then maybe pick out a tented camp such as Tortilis Camp. These offer you that chance to fully submerse in the environment while, as well, relishing every creature comfort.

Be very sure to book your accommodation ahead, more or less, notably if traveling during peak times. And perhaps explore the specific amenities each choice gives to pick what most closely fits your desires. As an example, does it provide electric outlets to charge cameras and other gear, because believe me, you will be using your camera.

Food and Dining

Just in case you think it is all wildlife sightings and sleeping bags, be relieved knowing that meals during your safari tend to be pretty excellent. The majority of lodges and camps really offer full board, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Usually the meals are buffet style, therefore there is something for everyone.

Now the food is always varied, to be honest, and includes an assortment of stuff, like continental breakfasts, hot lunches, and themed dinners. You are more or less sure to see different meats (yes, often even including game meat), pasta, rice, fresh veggies, and tropical fruit. Should you have particular dietary needs, such as you being vegetarian or vegan, or possessing a food intolerance, be sure to tell your lodging ahead so they can handle it.

In addition, almost always be sure to bring lots of bottled water with you, particularly during game drives, as it does get fairly hot. Beverages apart from water, you know, things like alcoholic and soft drinks, are always easily accessible at the lodges but may come at a supplementary fee. Really don’t miss enjoying a cool drink in the wake of an active day in the park; it’s totally pleasing.

Tips to Maximize Your Amboseli Safari

To definitely obtain the most from your 2-day Amboseli safari, you’ve really got to plan and keep some stuff in mind. Here are a few guidelines:

• Pack Smart: That implies comfy clothing in neutral shades (khaki, olive green, brown), sunblock, a hat, sun shades, bug spray, and some warmer clothes for cool mornings and evenings. You may also wish to include a good pair of binoculars and cameras, of course, with spare batteries and memory cards.
• Optimal Timing: So, generally the optimal period to see Amboseli is during the dry seasons, which are usually from June to October and January to February. Animal watching is much easier then as they assemble around water sources, also reducing dense greenery.
• Health and Safety: Talk with your health care provider in regards to any vital vaccinations and anti-malarial drugs. Always carry a fundamental first-aid kit, and stick to your guide’s advice regarding animal interactions and basic safety protocols.
• Be Respectful of the Environment: Stick to marked tracks when traveling, under no circumstances toss garbage, and value the wildlife. Help to keep Amboseli magnificent for everyone.

Choosing a Safari Operator

The safari tour company you pick seriously makes a significant difference. So research the best operators, compare quotes, and go through online feedback ahead of committing to a purchase. Ensure that the company is approved, adheres to ethical procedures, and delivers qualified guides that learn about the park and the wildlife. What to look for is really someone who cares about eco-tourism and adding back to local towns.

You might want to go with a private safari, especially when you favor an absolutely individualized experience, and want you and your small group to move at your pace and emphasis specific sightings. Otherwise, for your more typical pocketbook and opportunities to hook up with other visitors, group excursions are really popular.

Just be careful to completely ask for all the info regarding the tour program, that you find out exactly what is covered and what it doesn’t, and about the automobiles being applied, so the overall cost, and also cancellation coverages. Great planning usually gets you further!

Budgeting for Your Trip

Budgeting for a safari is something you definitely must to do in advance so there aren’t surprises when all is said and done. Just know the cost really fluctuates according to elements such as the period of travel, how luxurious your lodging is, whether or not it is a private or group tour, as well as things that may or may not be factored in the deal. Consider, park fees, lodgings, meals, tour bus rentals, guide service charges, and of course some money for presents, tips, and perhaps keepsakes for family when budgeting your cash flow.

Now, it might be quite attractive to pick the most cost-effective deal accessible, but just be thorough and go through what is truly on sale, the reviews and then opt for the option that mixes rate and superior quality and ethical procedures. Quite a few travel professionals let you modify your itinerary to enable you to acquire just the specific skills within a specific price. Booking ahead way ahead sometimes nets deals so watch out!

Common Questions About Amboseli Safaris

Personal Reflections

Alright, let me provide insight regarding individual activities – Amboseli surpassed all hopes! I observed herds, large, just sauntering quietly all over flatlands through Mount Kilimanjaro’s breathtaking picture-perfect historical background, only so wonderful!

Right before making your purchase for safaris there do research the company fully to fully check their credentials alongside practices they follow and also do not let anyone get past your health professional about inoculations desired as well safeguards so any journey taken there always remains healthy yet amazing. A good arrangement does help an expedition and produces experiences one doesn’t ever let die easily once started at this point.

Then so I can leave you that small yet impactful nuggets – make preparations well ahead before setting any foot in!

• Pack lightly yet very wisely
• Continue keeping drinks by using your hands and continue hydrating!
• Respect nature/animals without having that in front for selfies but rather appreciate exactly as it sits inside those raw zones so Amboseli could potentially be amazing over years that do turn for visitors!