Wildlife Safari
A wildife safari into Amboseli lets the
visitor enter the majestic realm of the Elephant. This beautiful park
consists of wide open plains crowned by the snow capped peak of
Kilimanjaro.
Amboseli is easily accessible from Nairobi, and its
relatively small size and open plains make game viewing very easy.
The
most obvious resident are the large elephant herds, and they are
impossible to miss. Elephants are a continual presence throughout the
park, and this provides plenty of opportunities to observe and learn
from a wide variety of their social behaviour. With a well trained
guide, it is easy to understand and follow the social heirachy of each
herd, and their constant social interaction.
Whether it is the
deep affection between a cow and her calf or a spectacular battle for
dominance between two full tusked bulls, elephant behaviour is always
fascinating.
Spending time among Amboseli's Elephants is the
perfect way to learn more about the role that they play in the local
ecosystem. There is a lot more to see in Amboseli other than Elephants.
The forests and swamplands are well worth exploring, and the wetland
areas and stands of acacia are rich birding country.
The open
plains attract plenty of grazing game. including zebra, wildebeest, and
impala. Cheetah are often seen here, either hunting on the plains or at
rest in the undergrowth.
The best time to see game in Amboseli is early morning and late
afternoon. In the midday heat, Elephants and other animals retreat to
the cool of thick undergrowth and can become invisible. Morning and
afternoon game drives also allow you to witness the unforgettable
African dawn and sunsets.
The most common means of Game viewing here is in customized vehicles,
with open topped roofs or sides ideal for photography. Game can be seen
from some of the lodges and camps.
Guided game walks are possible on the fringes of the park, and to the
high observation point within the park. These can be arranged at most
camps and lodges. This is a great way to experience the bush at its
best.
If you have a particular wildlife or birding interest, look for a Safari
operator who can offer you specialized guiding and services to suit
your needs.
Trekking (Foot Safari)
Some lodges and camps organize game walks and hikes outside of the Park. The wide open country is ideal for game viewing on foot. With a well trained and knowledgeable guide, a game walk around Amboseli lets you experience the wild "one on one" and to encounter wild game great and small on ground level. Walks can be arranged at most lodges and camps in Amboseli.
A privately escorted foot safari is the best way to really experience the African bush at its best. Walking through the wilds let you explore the wild at its most pure and visceral. as you track big game, you become aware of every sight and sound, the smell of the earth and the touch of the wind. An expert tracker will teach you the signs to look for, tracks- the individual tracks and spoor, and show you how to use the wind to disguise your scent, and to move silently through thick cover and get up close and personal with the game.
When you are at close range your senses are heightened, and you become increasingly aware of the animal you are watching, how it moves and feeds, how it reacts to its environment. If the animal reacts to your presence, it can be a real adrenaline rush.
There are few experiences as exhilarating as a close encounter with an elephant, lion or buffalo. This is an experience that will make you feel more alive. You will, of course, want to stay alive so make sure that any foot safari is undertaken by a fully trained and responsible guide.
Elephant Watching
Some of Amboseli's lodges and camps can arrange for special elephant focussed game drives with a highly qualified guide. The "Elephant Watching" trips will introduce you to a single herd, individual by individual. The morning or afternoon is them spent in their company, watching the interactions between the herd members. This is an excellent opportunity to do some intensive game viewing, and learn more about these highly intelligent, highly social creatures.
Bird Watching
Amboseli is as popular with birders as Elephant watchers. Over 400 species including at least 40 raptors have been recorded. Notable species include the Lesser Flamingo, many ducks, darters and heron nest in the wetlands, and birds of prey including a small population of Martial Eagles.
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