Located in southern Kenya near the Tanzania border, Amboseli National Park is one of the most accessible major parks in the country. Whether you’re arriving from Nairobi, Mombasa, or the Coast, there are several convenient ways to reach the park—by road or air, on a guided safari, or even through a self-drive adventure. Here’s everything you need to know.
✈️ Flights to Amboseli: Fast and Scenic
Flying is the quickest and most scenic way to reach Amboseli, especially if you’re short on time or want to avoid Kenya’s sometimes unpredictable roads. Several daily scheduled flights operate from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli Airstrip.
✈️ Flight Details:
- Flight Duration: Approx. 40–50 minutes
- Departure Airport: Wilson Airport, Nairobi (WIL)
- Arrival: Amboseli Airstrip (Inside the park)
- Airlines: Safarilink, Air Kenya, Fly ALS (seasonal)
🧳 Good to Know:
- Most lodges and camps offer airstrip transfers—check if yours is included.
- Flights can be booked independently or as part of a safari package.
- Luggage limit is typically 15 kg (soft bags preferred).
Flying in offers aerial views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the park’s swamps, and elephant herds—an unforgettable welcome.
🚙 Driving to Amboseli from Nairobi
Driving is the most flexible and affordable option to reach Amboseli, especially for families, photographers, or self-drive explorers. The road from Nairobi is mostly paved, although some sections near the park gates can be rough and dusty, especially after rain.
🚗 Key Route (Most Common):
- Route: Nairobi – Emali – Loitoktok Road – Kimana – Amboseli
- Distance: ~225 km (140 miles)
- Driving Time: 4–5 hours (longer with stops)
🛣️ Road Trip Tips:
- Leave Nairobi early to avoid traffic and arrive before dark.
- Fill up your fuel tank in Emali or Sultan Hamud—limited fuel near Amboseli.
- A 4×4 is recommended, especially in rainy season.
- Watch for livestock, speed bumps, and slow trucks on the Mombasa Highway.
Alternative access is also possible from Namanga, via Meshanani Gate, if you’re coming from Arusha or Lake Magadi.
🧭 Park Gates & Access Points
Amboseli has several official entrance gates, depending on your route and accommodation.
| Gate | Best For | Nearby Camps |
|---|---|---|
| Kimana Gate | Most popular, closest to Nairobi route | Kibo, AA Lodge, Tawi, Sentrim |
| Meshanani Gate | Coming from Namanga or Magadi side | Tortilis Camp, Ol Tukai, Serena |
| Iremito Gate | Alternative gate for those from Chyulu | Limited access |
| Airstrip Gate | For those flying into the park | Ol Tukai, Serena, Elerai |
Pro tip: Confirm with your lodge which gate is closest—this can save you an hour or more of driving.
📦 Amboseli Safari Packages
Booking a safari package is ideal if you want a seamless experience that includes transport, accommodation, meals, park fees, and guided game drives. Packages range from budget camping safaris to luxury fly-in getaways.
🎒 Types of Packages:
- 2–3 Day Nairobi–Amboseli Road Safaris: Great for weekend getaways.
- 5–7 Day Amboseli + Tsavo + Coast Combo Tours: Perfect for longer explorations.
- Fly-in Luxury Safaris: Max comfort, minimal travel stress.
Many reputable operators offer packages from Nairobi or Mombasa. Look for licensed guides, 4×4 vehicles, and included park fees when booking.
🛻 Self-Drive Safaris in Amboseli
Experienced travelers can plan and execute a self-drive safari into Amboseli, allowing for total independence and flexible game drives. However, this is recommended only if you’re confident in off-road driving, wildlife etiquette, and navigation.
🧭 Self-Drive Essentials:
- 4×4 required during rainy season and for swamp detours
- Always check-in at the gate and get a park map
- Obey all park rules: no off-road driving, respect animal distances
- Carry extra water, fuel, and tire repair kits
- Cell signal is limited, especially in the park’s southern regions
Consider combining self-drive with a guided game drive for your first day, then exploring on your own afterward.
🎟️ Amboseli Park Entry Fees (Updated 2024/2025)
All visitors must pay park entry fees at the gate or via E-Citizen (Kenya’s digital platform). Fees vary based on nationality and vehicle type.
| Category | Fee (per day) |
|---|---|
| Kenyan Citizens (Adult) | KES 800 |
| Kenyan Citizens (Child/Student) | KES 215 |
| Resident (Adult) | KES 1,030 |
| Resident (Child/Student) | KES 515 |
| Non-Resident (Adult) | USD 60 |
| Non-Resident (Child/Student) | USD 35 |
| Safari Vehicle (6–14 seats) | KES 3,000 |
Tip: If you’re staying outside the park, make sure to exit before 6:00 PM or pay for an extra day.
🗺️ Amboseli Access Overview
| Access Method | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | Luxury, short trips | Fastest, scenic, pricier |
| Private Road Trip | Families, mid-range travelers | Most flexible, good road condition |
| Self-Drive | Experienced safari-goers | 4×4 needed, more prep required |
| Group Safari | First-timers, social travelers | Hassle-free, budget-friendly options available |
Whether you want to fly in over Kilimanjaro, take the wheel on your own game drive, or cruise down from Nairobi in a safari van with a guide, getting to Amboseli is easier than ever. With a bit of planning, the journey becomes part of the adventure.