Arrival in Nairobi

Our adventure began on an unforgettable journey from Nairobi, Kenya, to Amboseli National Park. The morning skies in Nairobi hinted at a day of exploration as we prepared to dive into the heart of Kenya’s wildlife. Having arrived from Doha the night before, we stayed at Cozy Suites, a charming yet affordable accommodation. Although breakfast wasn’t included, we made do with a simple local food from a nearby restaurant. 

Setting Out for Amboseli National Park

Our ambitious itinerary included stops at Amboseli, Mombasa, and the renowned Masai Mara,. Essential to this safari experience was our pre-arranged Toyota Land Cruiser, a sturdy vehicle equipped for Kenya’s rugged terrains. Designed for safaris, it comfortably seats seven people and features a pop-up roof, ideal for capturing wildlife photos. During peak seasons, the rental cost averages $250 per day, dropping to $150 in the off-season—an economical option for groups, amounting to roughly $35-$37 per person per day.

Introducing Shamuel: Our Guide and Driver

We were greeted by Shamuel, our amiable guide and driver for the next five days, whose expertise and warm demeanor set the tone for the trip. After loading our gear, we departed Nairobi early in the morning. Our group of adventurers—settled into the spacious vehicle. The first stop was a petrol station to check air pressure and refuel.

Learning Swahili and Kenyan Hospitality

Shamuel introduced us to Swahili, Kenya’s national language, which coexists with English due to the country’s colonial history. Here are some common phrases we learned:

• Jambo: Hello
• Hakuna Matata: No problem
• Habari Gani: How are you?
• Mzuri Sana: I am fine
• Kwaheri Sana: Goodbye

We were charmed by the warm hospitality of Kenyans, who greeted us with genuine smiles and calm, friendly interactions. From hotel staff to roadside vendors, their welcoming nature left a lasting impression.

Scenic Drive and First Stops

At Noon, we paused at a highway café for refreshments. While the food selection was modest, the yogurt served with a straw offered a unique experience. Others opted for sampling Ugali, a staple Kenyan dish, later in the journey.

During this time of year, Kenya’s landscape is slightly dry, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 32°C. For those seeking lush green vistas, April is the ideal time to visit, though it coincides with the rainy season. For fewer crowds and more affordable rates, September to February is an excellent choice.

Amboseli’s Unique Attractions

Amboseli National Park is famed for its majestic elephants and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, situated across the Tanzanian border. Interestingly, Mount Kilimanjaro was once part of Kenya but was gifted to Tanzania by the British monarchy in 1962 in exchange for coastal territories near Mombasa. 

Kenya’s Rich Resources and Economy

Alongside Kilimanjaro, Kenya boasts Mount Kenya, a volcanic peak surrounded by fertile soils that nurture its renowned roses.

Along the way, we learned about Kenya’s abundant volcanic soil, which supports its famous rose exports. Coffee, tea, and acacia trees are also major agricultural products. In particular, the yellow-backed and umbrella acacias add to the unique landscape, especially in Masai Mara.

Exploring Local Markets

A visit to a fruit market provided an opportunity to sample Kenya’s agricultural bounty. We purchased fresh passion fruit, papayas, mangoes, and lemons from welcoming vendors who eagerly offered samples. This vibrant marketplace showcased the richness of Kenyan produce, adding a delightful touch to our journey.

More Stops and Observations

Our next stop was at a curio shop and a shopping mall in Emali. Here, we discovered a variety of traditional Kenyan crafts and souvenirs, including intricately carved ebony wood figurines, beaded jewelry, and vibrant textiles. These items reflect the local artistry and cultural heritage, though the prices, tailored mainly for international tourists, were quite steep. Here, we stocked up on 5-liter water bottles (215 Kenyan Shillings) and observed local crafts made from ebony wood. Though beautiful, these handcrafted items are priced high, catering primarily to European and American tourists.

Finally, we continued along the Nairobi-Mombasa road before turning toward Amboseli. The careful driving culture in Kenya stood out—a refreshing contrast to some other places. The Amboseli road offered a glimpse of what lies ahead, with wildlife and natural wonders beckoning.

Arrival in Kethari and Local Water Insights

We arrived in Kethari, about 10 km ahead of Kimana, where Shamuel introduced us to a fascinating stream originating directly from Mount Kilimanjaro. This spring water, fresh and drinkable, is revered by locals and wildlife alike. William encouraged us to taste it, describing it as one of the best waters he has ever had. Indeed, the water was cold, clean, and incredibly refreshing—an unforgettable experience. Interestingly, this spring water is a favorite among elephants, highlighting its purity.

Shamuel shared an important note about water consumption in Kenya: locals strictly drink packaged water due to concerns over water quality. He strongly advised against drinking imported water, as it may not suit everyone’s health. This insight is crucial for travelers looking to stay safe during their adventures.

Entering Kimana and a Traditional Kenyan Lunch

As we entered Kimana, we stopped for a traditional Kenyan lunch featuring Ugali—Kenya’s staple food made from maize flour. Ugali is a carbohydrate-rich dish, often paired with chicken, fish, or vegetables. Though its taste is neutral and slightly dry, it serves as an essential energy source. Alongside Ugali, we tried Mandazi, a lightly sweet and dry bread resembling Mughlai Paratha. The lunch was filling, affordable, and offered a glimpse into local culinary traditions.

The cost of the meal was reasonable, with Ugali and chicken priced at 420 Kenyan Shillings and Ugali with tilapia at 600 Kenyan Shillings. Mandazi cost only 30 Kenyan Shillings, and French toast was 130 Kenyan Shillings. Our total bill was 1210 Kenyan Shillings, making it a budget-friendly yet satisfying experience.

Shopping for Local Produce

Before heading to our Airbnb, we explored the local market to buy fresh produce such as potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and eggs. The prices were reasonable, with onions costing 100 Kenyan Shillings per half kilogram and eggs at 15 Kenyan Shillings each. The vibrant market atmosphere and the kindness of the vendors made the experience enjoyable.

This first leg of our journey to Amboseli has been enriching, offering a tapestry of experiences—from delving into Kenyan culture and savoring traditional dishes to soaking in the breathtaking natural beauty. These moments have set the tone for an unforgettable adventure ahead. As we settle into our Airbnb and prepare for the next adventure, the promise of Amboseli National Park’s majestic landscapes and wildlife fills us with excitement. Stay tuned for more updates from the heart of Kenya!