How to Get to Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park lies in southern Kenya, right along the border with Tanzania, and about 230 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. The park is famous for its elephant herds and striking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Travelers can access the park through four main gates—Kimana, Meshanani, Iremito, and Kitirua—each serving different routes and guest lodges. Amboseli is reachable by both road and air, depending on your travel style and budget.
By Road: Nairobi to Amboseli
Route 1: Nairobi – Emali – Loitoktok – Kimana Gate
- Distance: ~230 km
- Drive Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Road Type: Tarmac road to Emali, then murram (gravel) to the park
This is the most direct and popular route. Depart Nairobi via the Mombasa Highway (A109). Turn off at Emali town. Follow signs to Loitoktok, then Kimana Gate. The final stretch passes farmlands and local Maasai villages.
Route 2: Nairobi – Namanga – Amboseli via Meshanani Gate
- Distance: ~240 km
- Drive Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Take the A104 south from Nairobi to Namanga (border town with Tanzania). Turn left toward Arusha Road and enter Amboseli via Meshanani Gate. This route offers scenic views but takes slightly longer.
Vehicle Tip: Use a 4×4, especially during the rainy season. Some park roads can flood or become muddy.
By Air: Flights to Amboseli
Domestic Flights
- Departure: Wilson Airport (WIL), Nairobi
- Airlines: Safarilink, Airkenya, and Fly ALS
- Duration: ~40 minutes
- Arrival: Amboseli Airstrip (inside the park, near Observation Hill)
Daily flights run between Nairobi and Amboseli. You can book a one-way or return ticket. Most lodges offer airstrip pick-up if arranged in advance.
Private Charters are also available for groups or luxury travelers.
By Road from Tanzania
If you’re coming from Tanzania (Arusha or Moshi):
- Cross the Namanga border post into Kenya
- Drive ~90 km from Namanga to Meshanani or Kitirua Gate
- Travel Note: You need a valid East African visa or Kenyan tourist visa
This route is ideal for those combining northern Tanzania safaris with Amboseli.
Entry Gates Overview
| Gate Name | Best Access From | Nearby Lodges |
| Kimana Gate | Emali, Loitoktok | Tawi Lodge, Kibo Safari Camp |
| Meshanani Gate | Namanga | Amboseli Serena, Sentrim Amboseli |
| Iremito Gate | Internal park roads | Tortilis Camp, Ol Tukai Lodge |
| Kitirua Gate | Tanzania (Arusha) | Best for cross-border safaris |
Accessibility Summary
- By Road: Easy from Nairobi, best for budget travelers or overland safaris
- By Air: Fast, scenic, and ideal for luxury travelers or tight itineraries
- From Tanzania: Possible via Namanga border; great for combined itineraries
Plan Your Trip to Amboseli
Reaching Amboseli is simple and rewarding. Whether you fly or drive, the journey offers rich scenery and cultural experiences. With its iconic elephants and Kilimanjaro backdrop, Amboseli delivers unforgettable safari moments.
