2 days group safari to Amboseli National park (Mon-Wed-Sat only)

Planning a safari in Kenya can feel overwhelming with so many options, but a well-organized, affordable trip like the 2-day group safari to Amboseli offers a great way to see iconic wildlife with minimal hassle. This particular tour, operated by African Beast Tours and Safaris, has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 45 travelers, with many recommending it wholeheartedly. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari lover, this experience promises a blend of wildlife, scenery, and local culture.

What we love about this tour are its straightforward approach, excellent value, and the chance to witness Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peaks—a truly breathtaking backdrop. We also appreciate the all-inclusive pricing, which covers meals, park entry fees, and accommodations, making planning simpler. The personalized attention from a dedicated guide and the convenience of hotel pick-up add to its appeal.

A possible consideration is the fixed schedule that might feel rushed for some, especially if longer game drives or more leisurely activities are your preference. However, for those seeking a concise, well-organized introduction to Amboseli, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, immersive wildlife experience without sacrificing comfort.

This tour fits best for adventurous travelers eager to see Africa’s wildlife and iconic landscapes in just two days, and those who appreciate well-rounded, hassle-free outings that include transport, meals, and lodging.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Meals, park fees, and accommodation make this a straightforward choice.
• Personalized experience: Small group size and dedicated guides ensure attentive service.
• Iconic scenery: Views of Mount Kilimanjaro combined with abundant wildlife.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pick-up and drop-off simplify your journey.
• Authentic wildlife viewing: Multiple game drives increase chances of spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and more.
• Balanced itinerary: A good mix of travel, relaxation, and adventure.

Why Choose This Amboseli Safari?

This 2-day safari offers a well-balanced blend of comfort, adventure, and value, making it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a taste of Kenya’s famed wildlife without committing to a longer or pricier trip. The tours run only on specific days—Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday—so planning ahead ensures you secure your spot, especially since the tours are typically booked about a month in advance.

The experience kicks off early, with pickup at 7:30 am from your Nairobi hotel or residence. The drive to Amboseli is roughly nine hours, passing through classic African savanna scenery dotted with local homesteads and Masai herdsmen grazing cattle. This part of the journey alone offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in Kenya, setting the tone for your safari.

The Itinerary — What to Expect

Day 1: The Journey & Introduction to Amboseli

The early morning pickup is punctual, a detail confirmed by many visitors who appreciated the drivers’ patience and professionalism. The drive along the Nairobi-Mombasa road offers a chance to see the changing landscape—from bustling city outskirts to open grasslands.

Arriving at Amboseli around midday, you’ll settle into your lodge or camp, with options like AA Amboseli Lodge, Nyati Camp, or Sentrim depending on availability. The lodges are comfortable and positioned to offer excellent wildlife views, often from your room or the dining area.

After a hearty lunch and a rest, the afternoon game drive begins. During this drive, expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, cheetahs, warthogs, and ostriches. One of the biggest highlights is the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, which dominates the horizon and provides a stunning setting for wildlife photography.

Guests have noted that their guides are very knowledgeable, often pointing out interesting animal behaviors or explaining the ecology of Amboseli, adding an educational touch to the experience. One review mentioned, “The guides were very patient and informative, making sure everyone got good views and photos,” highlighting the personalized attention.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Return to Nairobi

The next day begins early, with a breakfast at the lodge followed by another game drive. This is your chance to spot predators like lions and cheetahs, as well as the grazers that share the plains. Reviewers praised the abundance of wildlife and the expertise of guides who knew exactly where to look.

Around mid-morning, you’ll start heading back toward Nairobi, stopping at Emali for a break and lunch (at your own expense). The drive back takes approximately six hours, with some travelers remarking that the roads can be bumpy but manageable. Many visitors found the scenery captivating, with some calling out the “African savanna at its best.”

Arriving in Nairobi late afternoon, the tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or residence—convenient and stress-free.

What’s Included & What to Consider

This tour’s all-inclusive price of $200 per person covers meals, park entry fees (for non-residents, $60 USD for adults and $35 USD for children), accommodations, and transportation. The use of a safari van with a pop-up roof ensures optimal viewing and photo opportunities during game drives.

However, travelers should note that entry fees are paid separately—either in cash or via E-citizen online. The price doesn’t include lunch on the second day, so you might want to budget extra for that meal.

The tour operates only on specific days—Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday—and tends to be booked about a month in advance, so early planning is advised.

Authentic Experiences & Insights from Reviewers

Many guests have shared their appreciation for the guides’ extensive knowledge and patience. One reviewer, Hermetria_H, mentioned, “The hotel pick-up was extremely prompt, and the drivers were very patient,” emphasizing the professionalism behind the scenes.

Another highlighted feature was the views of Mount Kilimanjaro, which “dominate the background” during game drives, creating a truly memorable backdrop. Reviewers have also appreciated the comfortable yet adventurous drive, even on bumpy roads, with some singing and dancing to pass the time—adding a fun, human element to the journey.

Practical Tips for Your Safari

• Book in advance: Tours are popular and fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Bring cash or digital payment for entry fees: Make sure to have the necessary funds ready to avoid delays.
• Pack layers: Early mornings can be cool, while afternoons warm up.
• Camera or smartphone: Ensure your device has enough storage for wildlife photos.
• Respect wildlife and guides’ instructions: For safety and preservation, follow all guidelines during game drives.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a cost-effective, yet comprehensive, wildlife experience near Nairobi. It suits those who can handle early mornings and long drives but want the convenience of all-inclusive amenities. Families, solo travelers, and small groups will appreciate the personalized attention and chance to see Africa’s iconic animals with minimal fuss.

If you’re after a short but impactful safari, with the chance to see elephants, lions, and Mount Kilimanjaro in just two days, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable adventure.

The Sum Up

The 2-day Amboseli National Park safari from Nairobi provides an authentic, well-organized glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes. With experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and all-important park fees included, it’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.

While the schedule is somewhat tight—given the long travel distances—the experience of spotting elephants against Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak makes it well worth the effort. The tour’s reputation for reliable logistics and knowledgeable guides ensures a smooth, engaging trip.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or someone eager to tick Amboseli off your Kenya itinerary, this safari offers a memorable experience that balances affordability with quality.

FAQs

What days does this tour run?
It operates only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, so plan your trip accordingly.

How long is the drive from Nairobi to Amboseli?
The journey takes about nine hours, passing through scenic savanna landscapes.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on the first day, with breakfast on the second day. Lunch on the second day needs to be bought separately.

Are park entry fees included?
No, entry fees are paid separately—$60 USD for non-resident adults, $35 USD for children, and $800 for residents. These can be paid in cash or online.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a safari van with a pop-up roof, which is ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.

Can I expect to see Mount Kilimanjaro?
Absolutely, Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak is a striking backdrop during game drives and a favorite highlight among travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for early mornings, a camera, plenty of water, and some extra cash for optional expenses like lunch or tips.