Families traveling with children will find Amboseli National Park a safari destination like no other, with less tourist traffic, stunning open spaces, easy access from Nairobi, the list is endless.
Described by writers as ‘a home for the gods’, the park covers 150 square miles south of Nairobi and sits right at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain at 5,895m. The park is currently at the crossroads with the government and local communities claiming ownership, with the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro dominating every aspect of this park and forming a stunning backdrop for the wildlife found here: elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo. , cheetah and a host of game from the plains and their stunning beauty, the tag is well worth it!
The area is home to the Masai people, tall, colourful, proud nomadic warriors famous for their legendary prowess in battle and single-handed acts of bravery in fights with wild animals. Perhaps more than any other people they have learned to live in complete harmony with the wildlife around them, this knowledge they proudly shared with visitors and is well worth the time. Children will be able to get up close and personal and explore the simple yet fascinating houses, adults will also enjoy the cultural aspect of the lifestyle.
The Oltukai Lodge in Amboseli is one of the best places in the world where children can observe elephants and study their fascinating behavior in the wild. This is where you will find the largest concentration of elephants than anywhere else in Africa, they can be seen scattered across the savannah. forest, just remember to ask your driver-guide about how these intelligent mammals weep and pay the last respect to a dead limb or how they cross their tiny young in a fast-flowing river. .
Quietly hidden from view, the Kibo family’s villa squats undisturbed, an elegant three-bedroom log cabin built of stone and gum tree, in complete harmony with its surroundings. Own entrance, living room, fully equipped kitchen and barbecue area. Secluded by a grove of indigenous Acacia Tortilis trees and five acres of garden, Kibo Villa is peace and privacy done to perfection. Two or three small families traveling together love the self catering option, use of hostel facilities is welcome. Detailed attention is given to safety issues and a resident nurse is available on call.
The kids will love the lavish family buffet breakfast or private dinner, specially prepared as a family package in a wonderful secluded spot amongst the tortilla trees, just a ring away from the resident elephant family who also enjoy their own feast, breakfast works best.
The Selenkay conservation area is located to the east of Amboseli and is off the beaten track, never visited by tourists until now, the bird life is prolific, especially birds of prey. Porini 6-tent luxury camp sleeps 12 guests at a time, camp is on the lines of a traditional luxury family camp, comfortable family rooms in tents, private bathrooms, flush toilets, solar powered electric lighting and an amazing chef completes a safari family. shelter!
In Amboseli, locally trained Maasai naturalists or trekking guides will take the children out in the mornings in a small group of say 8 children for an adventurous nature exploration. These walking trips to nearby sites will in most cases include lessons on Maasai hunting techniques, catching and naming butterflies, scavenger hunts, tree planting, hide and seek in animal camouflage clothing and an engaging question and answer session. answering every question they ever have. had on wildlife and tribal members.
The young ranger club is available for children aged 10-15, it could be a temporary or annual membership with letters, postcards and birthday cards sent to members around the world from deep in the wilds of Africa.
