Introducing the 2-Day Diani to Amboseli Flying Safari
If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants, lions, and flamingoes against the backdrop of Africa’s most iconic peaks, this 2-day flying safari from Diani to Amboseli could be just the adventure you need. Though we haven’t personally taken this trip, the itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and culture.
What we love most about this experience is its convenience—flying cuts down on long drives, giving you more time to enjoy the game drives and astonishing views. The chance to see Mt Kilimanjaro from your camp and enjoy authentic Maasai culture adds a special touch. Another key highlight is the inclusion of shared game drives in 4×4 jeeps, which promise close encounters with Africa’s legendary animals.
A possible consideration is the tight schedule—the 2-day format means you’ll need to be comfortable with early mornings and a fast-paced itinerary. But if you’re after a high-impact safari experience with minimal travel hassle, this trip is ideal. It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of Amboseli’s wildlife and scenery without sacrificing comfort or time.
Key Points
- Fast-paced, scenic itinerary packed into just two days, perfect for those with limited time.
- Spectacular views of Mt Kilimanjaro from the camp and during early morning game drives.
- Expert guides and well-structured logistics ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
- Wildlife encounters including lions, elephants, cheetahs, and flamingoes, often with opportunities for hot air balloon rides.
- Comfortable transportation via shared flights and 4×4 jeeps, maximizing game viewing time.
- Authentic cultural experience with a Maasai Village visit, adding depth beyond wildlife.
Looking for more options in Diani Beach? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Detailed Breakdown of the Safari Experience
Starting Point: Diani Beach and Ukunda Airstrip
Your adventure begins early, with a pickup from Diani Beach and a prompt departure at 7:30 am from Ukunda Airstrip. Arriving an hour before is recommended to handle check-in comfortably. The short flight to Amboseli is a major advantage, dramatically reducing travel fatigue compared to long road journeys—imagine soaring over landscapes and getting a bird’s-eye view of the African terrain.
Day 1: Exploring Amboseli and Cultural Encounters
Upon arrival, you’ll jump into an en-route game drive on your way to the lodge. This already sets the tone—expect to start spotting wildlife from the plane window and continue the excitement upon land. The lodge check-in includes a welcome lunch, after which the afternoon is dedicated to viewing Mount Kilimanjaro. This mountain’s snow-capped summit is breathtaking and often visible from the comfort of your camp, which many reviews mention as a highlight.
The cultural aspect kicks in with a visit to a Maasai Village, giving you a glimpse into traditional Maasai life, their customs, and crafts. This enriches the safari, making it more than just a wildlife tour. Later, a shared game drive in the evening offers chances to see lions, elephants, and maybe even a cheetah or two, with the Big 5 often on the list. Reviewers commend the guides—one called Joseph “a super awesome guide,” emphasizing how knowledgeable and personable guides make all the difference.
Day 2: Early Mornings and Closing the Loop
The second day starts before dawn at 6:00 am with a shared game viewing drive. Here, you’ll get to witness a stunning sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro, a photography highlight for many. Early morning is prime animal-spotting time, with lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife often more active.
For those seeking an extra thrill, there’s an option to enjoy a hot air balloon ride—though this isn’t included in the base package, it’s a typical add-on many travelers appreciate. After the early drive, you’ll return for breakfast at 8:30 am, followed by some downtime.
Mid-morning, you’ll enjoy a late breakfast and early lunch at the lodge before heading back to the airstrip. En-route game drives on departure help maximize your wildlife sightings. The adventure concludes with a flight back to Diani, leaving you with memories of Africa’s iconic landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Transportation and Comfort
Throughout the trip, transportation is shared but comfortable. You’ll fly on a light aircraft from Ukunda to Amboseli, saving hours of travel time. Once on the ground, game drives are in 4×4 safari jeeps, ensuring good visibility and close animal encounters, especially in the mornings and late afternoons when wildlife is most active.
The schedule is tight but designed to give you a comprehensive snapshot of Amboseli’s attractions. The included meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner— are generally well-reviewed, with some mentioning the delicious offerings and satisfying portions.
Pricing and Value
The tour costs $1,250 per person, which, considering the included flights, game drives, park fees, and cultural visits, offers solid value for an all-inclusive safari experience. The convenience of flying to reduce travel fatigue, combined with the chance to see Kilimanjaro, elephants, lions, and flamingoes, makes this a compelling option.
While some travelers might prefer longer safaris, this tour packs a lot into two days, making it perfect for those with limited time or who want a quick, impactful trip. Reviewers highlight the excellent organization and friendly guides as major positives, adding to the value.
Authentic Experiences and Highlights
- Mount Kilimanjaro Views: Many reviews mention how breathtaking the scenery is, especially the views from the lodge and during early morning drives. The snow-capped peaks contrast beautifully with the savannah’s golden hues.
- Wildlife Encounters: From elephants in herds to lions lounging after a hunt, the wildlife sightings are frequent and varied. The opportunity for a hot air balloon ride adds an extra layer of excitement (if booked separately).
- Cultural Exchange: The Maasai Village visit is more than a photo op—it’s an authentic glimpse into local traditions, crafts, and lifestyles. This cultural component enhances the safari, making it memorable beyond just the animals.
- Expert Guides: Reviewers praise guides like Joseph for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot animals quickly. Richard, who helped tailor the tour for solo travelers, is also noted for helpfulness and local insights.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early: To ensure smooth check-in and get the most out of your flights, arriving at Ukunda Airstrip an hour before departure is recommended.
- Be prepared for early mornings: The sunrise game drives start at 6:00 am, so pack warm clothing and a camera with good zoom.
- Consider optional add-ons: The hot air balloon ride is popular, but check if it’s available and budget accordingly.
- Pack light but smart: Lightweight clothing, neutral colors for game drives, sunscreen, and binoculars will enhance your experience.
- Stay flexible: Due to the nature of game drives, wildlife sightings can vary, but guides are skilled at maximizing your chances.
The Sum Up
This 2-day flying safari from Diani to Amboseli offers a compact, high-impact experience for anyone eager to see elephants, lions, and Mount Kilimanjaro with minimal hassle. The combination of scenic flights, game drives, and cultural encounters makes it a well-rounded adventure that balances wildlife and authentic local culture.
It’s best suited for travelers with limited time but a strong desire to get a genuine taste of Kenyan wilderness. The included park fees, meals, and knowledgeable guides ensure you get excellent value, while the comfortable transportation and stunning vistas keep the journey enjoyable from start to finish.
If you’re after a quick, immersive safari that captures the essence of Amboseli—plus some breathtaking mountain views—this tour ticks all the boxes. Just be prepared for early mornings and a fast-paced schedule, but rest assured, you’ll leave with stories, photos, and memories that last a lifetime.
FAQ
How early should I arrive for the flight?
It’s advisable to arrive about an hour before the 7:30 am departure to handle check-in and security comfortably.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included during the stay at the lodge, and they are generally well-reviewed.
What wildlife will I see?
Expect elephants, lions, cheetahs, flamingoes, and other game animals, with the possibility of seeing the Big 5 and more.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is private and designed for individual groups, with guides like Richard who help tailor the experience for solo travelers.
Can I book additional activities?
Optional activities like hot air balloon rides are available, although they are not included in the base price.
What about park fees?
Park entry and conservancy fees are included in the price, so there are no hidden costs for entry.
How long is the transfer from Diani?
The flight from Ukunda Airstrip to Amboseli takes a short time, significantly reducing travel fatigue compared to road transfers.
What should I pack?
Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothes, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera with a good zoom lens.
Is this tour suitable during peak seasons or holidays?
Seasonal supplements may apply during Easter and festive periods, so check with the provider if traveling during busy times.
This safari promises an authentic, exciting glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife and scenery, all wrapped into a convenient two-day package that’s worth every penny for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.