The last two days of our game drive were spent at Amboseli National Park in Kajiado County. Visiting Amboseli after spending time in Maasai Mara was so exciting due to the drastically different atmospheres, animals, and views. In particular, Amboseli is known for its large free-ranging elephant populations and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
To get to Amboseli National Park, we took an eight-seater mini plane from Nairobi which was certainly the smallest plane I’ve ever been on. Upon arrival, we had lunch on top of a large rock hill which was formed by a Mt. Kilimanjaro explosion, and contained rocks from over 400 millions years ago. The views from the top of this plateau were incredible, and I could see elephants playing in the water from all the way on top of the hill. On the drive to our camp, we were able to see more of the diverse ecosystems and environments within Amboseli. Certain areas were extremely dry, dusty, and desert-like. Other areas were more luscious swamps with lots of pretty greens, blues, trees and wildlife. In the more water-filled areas it was common to find elephants and flamingos roaming the area.
We stayed at the Elerai Camp, which had incredible views of Mt. Kilimanjaro, comfortable tents, and a small infinity pool that overlooked a watering hole bustling with wildlife. While in the midst of finishing a few of my final research projects, I spent a lot of time around the camp relaxing and getting work done. I loved the unique wooden architecture of the lodging, and all of the great lookout points around the camp. I found sitting in the upstairs lounge at sunset, overlooking the plains with a dawa in my hand to be the most enjoyable part of my stay.
During the day, I was able to take a quick dip in the swimming pool and watch the animals interact by the watering hole. It was so entertaining watching the elephants, giraffes, zebras, and monkeys fight for a spot to drink, and to see the occasional warthog scamper around the pool. The monkeys would legitimately push, kick, and punch each other just to claim territory over the water. It was interesting to watch the hierarchy of the animal kingdom fight over this small spot and to watch it all from 500ft away in our lodge.
I really appreciated all of the diversity within Amboseli. The differing atmospheres provided a new perspective and feel to our game drive experience, and revealed more of the wildlife Kenya has to offer. I’m grateful that this leg of our trip was a bit more quiet and relaxing; the “burnt-out student during finals” in me definitely needed it.
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