Amboseli National Park, which covers 392 km2, lies at the foot of the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro. It was first gazetted as a Game reserve and in 1974 as a National Park. Vegetation is mainly open wooded grassland and swamps. The park offers 53 species of herbivores and carnivores - the most conspicous being its elephant population whose individuals are known by name, age and sex. 387 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians etc have been recorded in the park.

Access from Nairobi is via Namanga (240 km) and via Emali (228 km). Both roads are tarmac up to the two towns. From Namanga to Amboseli and from Emali to Amboseli, are 75 and 64 km respectively. Access from Mombasa is mainly through Tsavo West via Kimana (Olkelunyiet) Gate, or by air. The condition of this road is similar to the other two. The park has five gates, OlKelunyiet, Iremito, Ilmeshanan, Kitirua and Empusel (Airstrip).