Amboseli National Park is not just about Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s also one of Kenya’s richest wildlife destinations, offering close-up encounters with iconic animals and beautiful birds across its open plains and wetlands.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or on your first African safari, here’s a guide to the must-see animals in Amboseli, curated by the experts at Woodsly Adventures.
Why Amboseli is Unique for Wildlife Viewing
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Flat, open terrain makes animal sightings easy — perfect for photography.
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Swamps and marshes attract large herds of elephants and other grazers.
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Smaller size means less driving to find animals — ideal for families.
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Famous for elephants, but home to predators and grazers too.
Amboseli is one of the best parks in Africa to get close to wildlife without rushing.
The Most Iconic Animals in Amboseli
🐘 1. African Elephants (Flagship Species)
Amboseli is elephant country.
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You’ll see large herds of 40–100 elephants, often walking in single file.
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Many have impressive tusks, including descendants of the legendary “Tim.”
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Look for them at swamp edges, where they wade in water with Kilimanjaro in the background.
Want the ultimate elephant experience? Book our Amboseli Elephant Safari.
🦁 2. Lions
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Amboseli is home to resident lion prides.
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Lions are often found resting under acacia trees or near water sources.
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They are best seen early in the morning or late evening.
🐆 3. Cheetahs (Occasional)
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Cheetahs roam the plains, hunting gazelles and other small antelopes.
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Though harder to find than in the Masai Mara, they are spotted a few times per week.
🐃 4. African Buffalo
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These massive animals graze near marshes and are often in small herds.
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They are part of the famous Big Five.
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Best seen around Ol Tukai and Enkongo Narok swamp areas.
🦓 5. Plains Zebra
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Striped beauties roam freely in Amboseli.
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Often seen grazing with wildebeest — a classic savanna combination.
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Fun fact: Each zebra’s stripe pattern is unique.
🦒 6. Masai Giraffe
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Tall and elegant, giraffes dot the landscape in small groups.
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They feed on acacia trees and make for excellent silhouette photos at sunset.
🐗 7. Warthogs
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These tusked animals are often seen trotting away with tails in the air.
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Popular with kids and safari first-timers.
🐊 8. Hippos & Crocodiles (Swamps & Wetlands)
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Hippos are often submerged in Amboseli’s swamps.
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Crocodiles are rarer but can be seen during the dry season in riverbeds.
Other Mammals to Look For
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Wildebeest – abundant and always moving
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Hyenas – mostly nocturnal, sometimes seen at dawn
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Jackals – quick and curious
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Baboons & Vervet Monkeys – often near lodges or swamps
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Elands, Gazelles & Waterbucks – common grazers
Birds of Amboseli
If you’re a birder, Amboseli will amaze you with over 400 bird species.
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Flamingos (seasonal)
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Pelicans, Herons, Egrets
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Secretary Birds
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Kori Bustards – Africa’s heaviest flying bird
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African Fish Eagle – majestic and loud
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Lilac-Breasted Roller – Kenya’s most colorful bird
Best birding months: November to April (wet season & migrant arrivals)
Are the Big Five in Amboseli?
The Big Five includes:
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Elephant ✅
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Lion ✅
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Buffalo ✅
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Leopard ❌ (very rare in Amboseli)
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Rhino ❌ (not present)
For a full Big Five experience, we recommend combining Amboseli with the Masai Mara Safari.
When is the Best Time to See Wildlife?
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June–October (Dry Season): Animals concentrate around waterholes — best for sightings
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January–March: Newborns and clear Kilimanjaro views — great photography
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April–May: Lush landscapes, more scattered wildlife
Morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best chances to spot predators.
Explore Amboseli with Expert Guides
At Woodsly Adventures, we partner only with local, licensed safari guides trained in animal behavior, photography positioning, and conservation.
You’ll get:
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Knowledgeable wildlife tracking
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Safe, respectful animal viewing
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Stories and insights that enrich your safari
Whether you’re a family, solo traveler, or wildlife photographer, we build an itinerary that fits your dream.
Bonus Wildlife Add-On: Ocean Safari
Love marine life too? Extend your land safari with a Wasini Island Marine Park Excursion to snorkel with dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish in crystal-clear waters.
