Amboseli Tsavo and Diani Beach Tours
Amboseli National Park, Kenya – Land of Giants and Majestic Views
Amboseli National Park, located in southern Kenya near the Tanzanian border, is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. Covering an area of approximately 392 square kilometers, the park is globally renowned for its large elephant herds, stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and diverse ecosystems ranging from swamps and savannahs to acacia woodlands.
Location and Accessibility
Amboseli lies about 240 km southeast of Nairobi, making it easily accessible by road (approx. 4–5 hours) or a short flight. It is part of the greater Amboseli ecosystem, which includes private conservancies and Maasai community lands.
Wildlife and Attractions
The park’s name comes from a Maasai word meaning “salty dust,” referencing the dry lake beds that define much of its landscape. Despite the semi-arid environment, Amboseli boasts abundant wildlife thanks to the swamp systems fed by underground rivers from Mount Kilimanjaro’s melting glaciers.
Key wildlife includes:
- African elephants – famously calm and approachable, often seen up close.
- Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards – though elusive, predators roam the park.
- Buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and various antelope species.
- Over 400 species of birds, including pelicans, kingfishers, and raptors.
Tsavo National Park, Kenya – The Untamed Wilderness of Africa
Tsavo National Park is one of Kenya’s largest and oldest wildlife sanctuaries, divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West, covering a combined area of over 22,000 square kilometers. Located in the southeast between Nairobi and Mombasa, Tsavo is famous for its vast landscapes, dramatic scenery, and rich wildlife diversity.
Location and Access
Tsavo National Park is split by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and railway into:
- Tsavo East – Known for open savannahs and red elephants.
- Tsavo West – Characterized by rugged terrain, volcanic hills, and lush springs.
Both parks are accessible by road and air, with entrances at Mtito Andei, Voi, Bachuma, and Chyulu Gate. It’s a convenient stopover on the way to or from the Kenyan Coast.
Wildlife and Unique Features
Tsavo East National Park
- Famous for its “red elephants”, dusted in the park’s reddish soil.
- Home to lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelope, and more.
- Notable attractions include:
- Aruba Dam – A great wildlife viewing point.
- Lugard Falls – Beautiful rapids and carved rocks on the Galana River.
- Yatta Plateau – One of the world’s longest lava flows.
Tsavo West National Park
- Offers dramatic landscapes with rolling hills and volcanic outcrops.
- Wildlife includes black rhinos, hippos, elephants, big cats, and rare lesser kudu.
- Major highlights:
- Mzima Springs – Clear springs with an underwater viewing chamber for hippos and fish.
- Shetani Lava Flow – A vast field of black lava rock.
Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary – A protected area for endangered black rhinos.