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Experiences

What to do in Amboseli & Chyulu Hills

Amboseli is famous for its big tuskers, iconic elephants with larger-than-life tusks, most often photographed against the swirling snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Game drives are the best means to see the herds (go in the early morning for the clearest views of Kili), and morning and afternoon drives are available from all lodges. What most don’t know is that the animals here extend far beyond the elephants, and buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and all three big cats (lion are the easiest to find) are sure to make an appearance. Once you’ve snapped your photos, bush walks are a great way to get a real feel for the landscape. If you’re serious about walking, visit from June to October or January and February when the grasses are short and the rain is less. Maasai are common in this part of Kenya and lodges will happily take you to the surrounding villages for a peek into community life, as well as visits to conservation and community projects, depending on their involvement.

Spot wildlife on a night game drive in Amboseli

Under a canvas of stars, set out from camp in a jeep to spy on the wildlife as Amboseli comes alive with a whole new cast of creatures. Even more so than the day, night time belongs to the predators. Lions slink between the trees, sniffing out hidden antelopes, and spotted hyenas howl in excitement as they look for leftovers. In the quiet of the evening, scan the brush for a pair of glowing eyes - then try and figure out if they belong to a bush baby, aardvark or even the shy civet. Your guide knows all and won't let any rustle go unnoticed!
Spot wildlife on a night game drive in Amboseli

Meet the Maasai of Amboseli

Leave your home-away-from-home in the Amboseli to meet the people who are the true keepers of Kenya. Dressed in traditional red shukas and ornate beadwork with a spear in hand, it's an honour to meet the warriors of the centuries-old Maasai tribe. Visit a local homestead where you'll hear the stories and legends that have been passed down for generations, listen to traditional songs round the fire and see the landscape through new eyes. You may even get the chance to ask where the name 'Amboseli' came from.
Meet the Maasai of Amboseli

Search for Amboseli's big tusker elephants

If you've ever wondered whether you'd see a mammoth, we've found the closest thing. Legendary, impressive and rather photogenic, the 'Big Tuskers' of Amboselli are aptly named for their enormous tusks that weigh in at over 50kg and almost brush the ground as they walk. Enjoy a game drive with Mount Kilimanjaro as your backdrop in search of the elephants as they stroll across their domain. There are less than 30 of these soulful creatures left in the world and to see them in the wild and up-close...well there's nothing quite like it.
Search for Amboseli's big tusker elephants

Spot wildlife in Amboseli on a bush walk

Feel the crunch beneath your boots and the sweet African breeze as you explore the plains of Amboseli. Let your guide share the secrets of the bush with you while spotting animal tracks (of lion and dung beetle alike) and inspecting the acacias for more unusual flora and fauna. Game drives may be the star of many safaris but there's no truer way to experience the bush than a hands-on and close-up walkabout. Your camera will thank you! And, you'll still have the chance to see plains game and big cats from a comfortable distance.
Spot wildlife in Amboseli on a bush walk
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