Amboseli National Park Entry Fees 2025
- BeyondForest
- Mar 8
- 8 min read
Updated: Nov 14
5.)Top Accommodation at Amboseli National Park
6.)How to get to Amboseli National Park by Road,Air
wildlife highlights elephants and Mt. Kilimanjaro views
Amboseli National Park often referred to as the "Home of the African Elephant," located in southern Kenya near the border with Tanzania, is one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa
Covering an area of about 392 square kilometers, the park is world-renowned for its striking landscapes dominated by the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa. On clear days, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak rising above the open plains, making Amboseli a favorite for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
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The park's origins trace back to 1906 when it was designated as a 27,700 square Kilometer Southern Reserve for the Maasai people by the British colonial government.
In 1948 in recognition of the abundant wildlife and unique habitat in the area 3260 Square Kilometer was proclaimed as Maasai Amboseli Game reserve and placed under the administration of National Park Trustees. In 1961 the area became a county council game reserve .
Amboseli is particularly famous for its large elephant herds, which roam the plains in family groups and are among the most studied in the world.
In 1971 a presidential decree declared that an area of 392 square kilometers surrounding the ecosystem main swamp was to be used exclusively for wildlife and tourism and in 1974, 372 square kilometers was gazetted as a National Park to protect its unique ecosystem. In 1991, Amboseli was recognized as a man and biosphere reserve thus making man and biosphere reserve in Kenya to be 2 including Mount Kenya UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its global ecological significance.
Payments can be made through the eCitizen platform via MPesa, Visa Card, RTGS, or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).
According to KWS Kenya Wildlife Service here are the latest Park Entry Fee for Amboseli National Park
Adult (EA Citizen KSh) | 1,500 |
Adult Resident (KSh) | 2,025 |
Adult Non-Resident (USD) | 90 |
Child/Student (EA KSh) | 750 |
Child Resident (KSh) | 1,050 |
Child Non-Resident (USD) | 45 |
Have IDs or passports ready to avail resident or student rates.
Amboseli National Park is located in southern Kenya, within Kajiado County, about 220 kilometers southeast of Nairobi and close to the Kenya–Tanzania border.
The park lies at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, whose snow-capped summit creates a stunning backdrop for the open savannah plains and seasonal swamps. Amboseli is easily accessible by road through the Namanga and Emali routes or by air via nearby airstrips such as Kimana.
Amboseli National Park is situated in Kajiado County, southeastern Kenya, near the Kenya-Tanzania border. It covers an area of approximately 392 square kilometers, 96865.31acres
Amboseli National Park Activity Fees (Per Person, Per Day)
Night game drive | KES 2,155 |
Cycling | KES 215 |
Horse riding (KWS horses, rider excluded) | KES 2,585 |
Horse riding (private horses) | KES 1,030 |
Guided walking safari | KES 1,500 |
From Nairobi, travelers have several options
Via Emali to Iremito Gate
This route covers about 204 kilometers. From Nairobi, drive along the Nairobi-Mombasa road to Emali. At Emali, turn onto the Emali-Loitokitok road and follow signs leading to Amboseli via Iremito Gate.
Via Kimana Gate
Image of Kimana Gate at Amboseli National Park by Kangs Photography
Continue on the Emali-Loitokitok road to Kimana town, then follow signs to the park through Kimana Gate.
Via Namanga to Meshanani Gate
This route is approximately 220 kilometers. Travel from Nairobi to Namanga on a tarmacked road, then proceed on a murram (gravel) road from Namanga to Meshanani Gate.
From Tsavo West National Park
A road links Amboseli to Tsavo West National Park, leading to the park through Kimana Gate, covering about 240 kilometers.
Private Campsites
EA Citizen (KSh) | 500 |
Resident (KSh) | 700 |
Non-Resident (USD) | 50 |
African Citizen (USD) | 25 |
Child / Student | 250 |
Non-African Child | 15 |
Public Campsite
EA Citizen (KSh) | 250 |
Resident (KSh) | 350 |
Non-Resident (USD) | 30 |
African Citizen (USD) | 15 |
Child / Student | 200 |
Non-African Child | 13 |
Amboseli National Park Vehicle & Aircraft Fees
Vehicle
Less than 6 seats | KSH 300 |
6-12 seats | KSH 1,030 |
13-24 seats | KSH 2,585 |
25-44 seats | KSH 4,050 |
45 seats and above | KSH 5,000 |
Aircraft Landing (Single)
Up to 3 seats | 300Ksh to 500Ksh |
4–6 seats | 500Ksh to1,000Ksh |
7–14 seats | 1,000Ksh to 1,500Ksh |
15–20 seats | 2,155Ksh to 2,500Ksh |
21+ seats | 3,015Ksh to 3,500Ksh |
Traveling to Amboseli National Park by air is the fastest and most convenient option, especially for visitors with limited time. Daily scheduled flights operate from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli Airstrip, a journey that takes approximately 45 minutes. Charter flights are also available, offering flexible travel options directly into the park. Several domestic airlines, including Safarilink and AirKenya, service this route. Upon arrival, travelers can easily connect with safari vehicles provided by lodges or tour operators for game drives. Flying not only saves time compared to the 4–5 hour road journey but also offers scenic aerial views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Amboseli boasts a tarmacked airstrip Kimana Airstrip suitable for light aircraft. Daily scheduled flights operate from Nairobi to Amboseli, as well as from Tsavo West and the Masai Mara.
Mammals
African Elephant | Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds. |
Lion | Often spotted in the savannah areas. |
Leopard | Though elusive, leopards can be found in wooded areas. |
Cheetah | Frequently seen hunting in open plains. |
Spotted Hyena | Active during both day and night. |
African Buffalo | Common around the swamps and grasslands. |
Zebra | Large herds roam across the park. |
Giraffe | Mostly found near acacia woodlands. |
Wildebeest | A key species in the park's ecosystem. |
Hippopotamus | Often found in swampy areas. |
Black-backed Jackal | Frequently seen scavenging. |
Bat-eared Fox | Known for its distinctive large ears |
Grant’s Gazelle | A common antelope species in Amboseli. |
Thomson’s Gazelle | Recognized by its small size and speed. |
Impala | Found in herds across the park. |
Waterbuck | Typically found near water sources |
Warthog | Easily spotted running with their tails upright |
Eland | The largest antelope species in the park. |
Bushbuck | Often found in the park’s wooded areas. |
Banded Mongoose | Small, social carnivores often seen in groups. |
Secretary Bird | A distinctive bird of prey. |
Crowned Crane | Easily identified by its golden crest. |
African Fish Eagle | Common near water bodies. |
Superb Starling | A colorful, iridescent bird |
Marabou Stork | Often seen scavenging |
Lappet-faced Vulture | One of the largest vulture species. |
Grey Heron | Frequently found near swamps |
Kori Bustard | One of the largest flying birds. |
Egyptian Goose | Common near water sources. |
Flamingos | Sometimes spotted in the park’s wetlands. |
Reptiles
Tortoises | Various species can be found in the grasslands. |
Chameleon | Found in the park's wooded areas. |
Monitor Lizard | Common near the wetlands. |
Black Mamba | One of the most dangerous snakes in Africa |
African Rock Python | A large, non-venomous snake. |
Nile Crocodile | Found in the swamps and water bodies. |
The Geology in Amboseli National Park is heavily dominated by Mount Kilimanjaro volcano with many of the rocks such as basalt having been derived from lava flow. When Kilimanjaro erupted lava flows blocked the ancient Pangani river and created the present day seasonal and featureless Lake Amboseli. The Flat Topography of Amboseli is dotted with a number of small extinct volcanic hills such as Namatior ,Kitirua and Ilmerishari
Amboseli National Park Is In Which County
Amboseli National Park is located in Kajiado County, Kenya. The park sits in the southern part of the county, near the Kenya–Tanzania border, and covers an area of about 392 square kilometers.
Can Amboseli National Park fees be paid via MPesa?
Yes, Amboseli National Park fees can be paid via MPesa. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) encourages cashless payments, and MPesa is one of the most convenient options available at the park gates. Visitors can also pay using Visa, MasterCard, or direct bank deposits.
When using MPesa, ensure you have the correct paybill number provided by KWS, and always carry your ID or passport to confirm your eligibility for citizen, resident, or non-resident rates
Are children under 3 free?
Yes, children under 3 years old enter Amboseli National Park free of charge. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) exempts toddlers below three years from paying park entrance fees, regardless of nationality.
Do tour operators include the entrance fee?
In many cases, tour operators do include the Amboseli National Park entrance fee in their package price, but not always.
Some safari companies provide all-inclusive packages covering transport, accommodation, meals, and park fees for convenience. Others, however, may quote a lower base price and require visitors to pay the entrance fee separately at the park gate.
When is Amboseli National Park high season?
Amboseli National Park’s high season typically runs from July to October and from December to February.
These periods coincide with Kenya’s dry seasons, when wildlife viewing is at its best. During the dry months, animals gather around swamps and waterholes, making them easier to spot, and Mount Kilimanjaro’s peak is often more visible due to clearer skies.
Distance from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park
The distance from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park is about 220 kilometers by road. The journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours depending on the route and traffic. The most common routes are via Namanga (on the Nairobi–Arusha road) or via Emali (on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway), both leading to different park gates such as Kimana, Meshanani, and Iremito.
The name "Amboseli" originates from the Maasai word "Empusel," which translates to "salty dust place." This aptly describes the park's terrain, characterized by vast, dry plains often covered in a fine, alkaline dust. The area within the park contains a dried lake bed, that when dry, creates the dusty conditions that lead to the name.
Train Services from Nairobi to Amboseli
Currently, there is no direct train service from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park. Travelers typically opt for road transfers or flights to reach the park.
Best Time to Visit Amboseli National Park
The dry season (June to October and January to February) is generally considered the best time to visit Amboseli, as wildlife congregates around water sources, making for excellent viewing.
Kilimanjaro Guest House is a self-catering accommodation located within Amboseli National Park, offering guests panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and close encounters with the park's renowned elephant herds. Three bedrooms accommodating up to seven guests: First bedroom: One double bed. Second bedroom: One double bed. Third bedroom: Three single beds. Rates for Residents is 12,000 KES per night while Non-Residents: $240 USD per night.
Image of Amboseli KWS Guesthouses
Kilimanjaro Annex
Kilimanjaro Annex is a self-catering accommodation facility located within Amboseli National Park, Kenya. It offers guests an immersive experience amidst the park's diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The annex can accommodate up to four guests. Rates for Residents is KSh 6,000 per night while for Non-Residents is $100 per night. Please note that rates are subject to change, and it's advisable to confirm current pricing before making a reservation
Simba Cottages
Simba Cottages are self-catering accommodations located within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests an immersive wildlife experience with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Each cottage accommodates up to two guests. Rates for Residents is KSh 4,000 per night. Non-Residents: $90 per night.
Chui Cottages
Chui Cottages are self-catering accommodations located within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests an immersive wildlife experience with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.Each cottage accommodates up to two guests.Rates for Residentsis KSh 4,000 per night whiel Non-Residents is $90 per night
Ol Tukai Lodge is a luxury safari lodge nestled within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and close encounters with the park's renowned elephant herds.The lodge features 80 chalet-style rooms, each with a private terrace overlooking either the wetlands or the mountain. These rooms are designed to provide comfort and luxury amidst the African wilderness.
Image of Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a luxurious retreat nestled within Kenya's Amboseli National Park, offering guests panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding savannahs. The lodge's design reflects Maasai cultural elements, creating an authentic ambiance that harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings
Kibo Villa is a luxurious private retreat nestled within Amboseli National Park, Kenya, offering guests unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro and an intimate safari experience.
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