Amboseli
Whether it’s the super tusker elephants, the iconic Mt. Kilimanjaro backdrop or huge herds of elephants walking across the lake bed, there is something about Amboseli that draws Will back every year.
Overview
Will first visited Amboseli in 2020 and he’s been hooked on it ever since. As a photographer there may be nowhere better in Africa to get close to elephants, our largest land based co-inhabitant, or frame super tusker elephants against the beautiful snow capped peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest free standing mountain. There's an array of wildlife and bird species, particularly around the mountain fed springs in the heart of the park and a wide range of camps, from luxury to less-so and knowing where and when to visit is crucial. Being a national park Amboseli has a strict policy on off roading - only possible with particular permits that Will can obtain for you - and at certain times of year it is possible to get caught in traffic jams here. If you are a photographer Will recommends at least three nights here, more if you can, but for those of you happier without a camera in hand you may not need more than two nights to feel you’ve absorbed this environment.
Best Time to Visit
Amboseli endures one of the harshest dry seasons in Kenya. From June through to October a mere 8mm of rain is expected and the effect of this on the landscape and its wildlife is huge. In November the short rains ensure fresh snow atop the mountain and a return of lush, green grass to the area which lasts through to February and the arrival of the long rains in March.
For those eager to get on the famous Amboseli lake bed the dry season is crucial, September and October are your best bets. For those after snow on Kilimanjaro Will suggests February before the arrival of the rains in March.
Jan
Excellent
Feb
Excellent
Mar
Good
Apr
Mixed
May
Mixed
Jun
Good
Jul
Mixed
Aug
Good
Sep
Excellent
Oct
Excellent
Nov
Good
Dec
Excellent
Known For
The Amboseli Lake Bed - undoubtedly a photographer's paradise. Usually accessible in the dry season only (July through September) this offers unparalleled opportunities to photograph elephant herds at ground level as they cross the lake bed on the park's northern boundary. It's not just elephants though, you'll often see zebra, giraffe, hyena and wildebeest and for the luckiest travellers lions and a super tusker.
Mt. Kilimanjaro Backdrop - nowhere else in Africa can you photograph such iconic animals with an equally dramatic backdrop. With such focus on wildlife in its environment in today's photography, Amboseli has become one of the places to create visceral images of an array of wildlife with the world's tallest free standing mountain in the background.
Super Tuskers - Craig is the current poster boy for Amboseli but there are many exciting emerging super tuskers in Amboseli as well. Michael is often seen in September and October, Tee-jay can be seen around Elephant Garden Conservancy and X-004 has perhaps the best tusks of the lot.
Gallery
Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife showcased in our gallery. Each photograph narrates a tale of exploration and the raw beauty of the safari.
Ideal Pairing
"If you're a photographer try heading up to Solio Game Reserve to continue your photographic adventure, or one of the Mara conservancies to catch up on some big cat action. Not as interested in photography? Get up to Borana, you'll never regret a safari there."
Begin your safari today. Will replies to all enquiries within 24 hours and tailors each itinerary according to your specific interests