3-Day Amboseli Safari from Nairobi | Best Kilimanjaro Views
Under the Shadow of Kilimanjaro
Experience the “Land of Giants.” Our 3-Day Amboseli Safari takes you to the heart of Kenya’s most scenic park, where massive herds of African elephants roam beneath the majestic, snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a soul-seeker looking for the ultimate wild escape, this short-but-sweet safari delivers unforgettable views and world-class wildlife sightings.
Trip Highlights
The Best Views of Kilimanjaro: Wake up to unobstructed views of Africa’s highest mountain.
The Giant Tuskers: Get up close with Amboseli’s famous long-tusked elephant bulls.
The Big Five & More: Spot lions, cheetahs, buffalo, and over 400 species of birds.
Observation Hill: Enjoy a panoramic “sundowner” view of the park’s swamps and plains.
Safari at a Glance
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Start/End Point: Nairobi (Hotel or Airport Pickup/Drop-off)
Primary Transport: Custom 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
Key Wildlife: Massive Elephant Herds, Lions, Cheetahs, Buffalo, and Hippos
Top Scenery: Iconic Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop and lush Enkongo Narok Swamps
Best Time to Visit: June–October (Wildlife) and January–February (Clear Mountain Views)
Accommodation Style: Luxury Safari Lodges or Tented Camps (Mid-range options available)
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Nairobi to Amboseli – The Gateway to Kilimanjaro
Your adventure begins at 08:00 hrs with a personal pickup from your Nairobi hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Embark on a scenic 4-hour drive through the authentic Maasai heartland, transitioning from the city bustle to the open savanna.
Upon entering Amboseli National Park, you are immediately greeted by the breathtaking sight of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in the world. After a seamless check-in and a delicious lunch at your lodge, head out for an afternoon game drive.
Wildlife Highlights: Keep your camera ready for Amboseli’s legendary “Giant Tuskers,” plus giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and Cape buffalo.
Predator Watch: Stay alert for lions, cheetahs, and hyenas as they begin their evening prowl across the plains.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2: Full Day Exploration of the “Land of Giants”
Rise early to witness a spectacular sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro, a bucket-list moment for every traveler. The morning hours offer the best light for photography and the highest chance of seeing wildlife at their most active.
Spend the day traversing diverse habitats, from the dried-out beds of Lake Amboseli to the lush, emerald-green Enkongo Narok Swamps. These wetlands are a magnet for hippos and massive elephant families who spend their days bathing and socializing in the mud.
Expert Insight: Your professional guide will share deep insights into the park’s fragile ecosystem and the behaviors of its residents.
Wild Picnic: Enjoy a unique picnic lunch in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by the raw beauty of the African bush.
Cultural Add-on: In the afternoon, you have the optional opportunity to visit a traditional Maasai village. Experience their ancient customs, vibrant dances, and deep-rooted connection to the land.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Final Sunrise Safari & Return to Nairobi
Make the most of your final morning with a sunrise game drive. This is your last chance to capture predators on the hunt or spot elephants silhouetted against the iconic mountain backdrop in the golden morning glow.
Following a hearty breakfast at the lodge, bid farewell to the park and begin your return journey to Nairobi. We can stop at local curio shops along the way, allowing you to pick up authentic Kenyan handicrafts and souvenirs.
The Finish: Arrive back in Nairobi in the late afternoon (approx. 14:00 hrs) for your transfer to the airport or hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast.
What’s Included in Your Safari Package
We believe in a “hassle-free” experience. When you book this 3-day Amboseli adventure, the following are fully covered:
Transportation: Private use of a custom-built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for unobstructed 360-degree game viewing and photography.
Professional Guiding: Services of a highly experienced, silver-level English-speaking driver-guide with expert knowledge in flora, fauna, and birdlife.
Park Entrance Fees: All government conservation fees and vehicle entry fees for Amboseli National Park (valid for 24-hour cycles).
Accommodation: 2 nights stay at your selected lodge or luxury tented camp (based on double/twin sharing).
Meal Plan: Full board basis (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) starting with lunch on Day 1 and ending with breakfast on Day 3.
Drinking Water: Unlimited supply of chilled bottled mineral water provided in the safari vehicle throughout the trip.
Game Drives: Multiple morning and afternoon tracking sessions as outlined in the itinerary.
Emergency Evacuation: AMREF Flying Doctors emergency air evacuation cover (to the nearest world-class hospital in Nairobi).
Pick-up & Drop-off: Seamless transfers from your Nairobi hotel, residence, or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
What’s Excluded (Not Included)
To help you budget for your personal needs, please note the following are not part of the standard package price:
International Travel: Round-trip airfare to Kenya and any associated Visa fees (e.g., Kenya ETA).
Personal Insurance: We strongly recommend comprehensive travel, medical, and trip-cancellation insurance.
Tips and Gratuities: While at your discretion, it is customary to tip your safari guide (approx. $10–$15 per day) and lodge staff ($5–$10 per day).
Beverages: Alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, spirits) and soft drinks/sodas at the lodges (unless specified in a “Premium Luxury” tier).
Optional Cultural Visits: Entry fees for the Maasai Village visit (usually $30 per person, paid directly to the community).
Personal Items: Laundry services, telephone calls, cigarettes, and souvenirs.
Nairobi Accommodation: Overnight stay in Nairobi before or after the safari (though we can arrange this for you at a discounted rate).
Pro-Tip:
“Prices are subject to change based on the season (Peak, High, or Low). We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance for travel between July and September to guarantee your preferred lodge.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Amboseli Safari 2026
1. When is the best time to visit Amboseli National Park?
While Amboseli is a year-round destination, the dry seasons (June to October and January to February) are best for wildlife viewing. During these months, animals congregate around the swamps. For the clearest views of Mount Kilimanjaro, plan your trip for January or February.
2. How much are the Amboseli National Park entry fees?
As of 2026, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) fees for Amboseli (a Premium Park) are:
Non-Residents: $90 per adult / $45 per child (per 24 hours).
African Citizens: $50 per adult / $25 per child.
Kenya Residents: KES 2,025 per adult / KES 1,050 per child.
Kenya Citizens: KES 1,500 per adult / KES 750 per child.
Note: Payments are made via the e-Citizen platform. Most Sunup Adventures packages include these fees in the total price.
3. Can I see the “Big Five” in Amboseli?
You can regularly see four of the Big Five: Elephants, Lions, Buffalo, and Leopards. While Rhinos are not currently found in Amboseli, the park is world-famous for its massive “Tuskers”—some of the largest elephants in Africa—which more than makes up for it!
4. What should I pack for a 3-day safari?
Clothing: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothes (khaki, beige, olive). Avoid blue/black (attracts tsetse flies) and camouflage.
Layers: Evenings and early morning game drives are chilly; bring a fleece or light jacket.
Gear: Binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, and a power bank.
Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and insect repellent.
5. Is the water safe to drink?
We recommend drinking only bottled or filtered water, which we provide in our safari vehicles and is available at all reputable lodges. Avoid tap water for drinking or brushing teeth.
6. Is a 3-day safari long enough?
Yes! Because Amboseli is only a 4-hour drive from Nairobi, a 3-day trip allows for four to five extensive game drives. It is the perfect duration to see the highlights without feeling rushed.
7. What is the difference between Mid-range and Luxury lodges?
Mid-range: Comfortable, permanent lodges or tented camps (e.g., Kibo Safari Camp, Ol Tukai) with en-suite bathrooms, swimming pools, and good buffet meals.
Luxury: Exclusive camps (e.g., Tortilis, Elerai Camp) offering more privacy, gourmet dining, better Kilimanjaro views, and often “extra” touches like butler service or private sundowners.
8. Is it safe for solo travelers or families?
Absolutely. Kenya’s parks are well-regulated by rangers. Solo travelers (especially women) are very safe with our professional guides, and children love Amboseli because the high density of animals keeps them engaged during game drives.