Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a 4-star luxury safari hotel located within Amboseli National Park. It is approximately 270 km from Nairobi via Emali and 280 km via Namanga town, close to the Tanzanian border. The closest airport is Amboseli National Park Airstrip, which is 11 km away. 

By air, the lodge is only 35 minutes from Nairobi Wilson Airport and approximately 3.5 hours by road.  Set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro and boasting views of the long stretch of the Savannah, Amboseli Serena Lodge is the perfect getaway place for relaxation and fun.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is set against the magnificent backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, the glittering Mount Kilimanjaro. The lodge enjoys a uniquely privileged position at the heart of this world-famous national park.

Secluded within a grove of acacia trees, the lodge looks out over the golden savannah plains, with uninterrupted mountain views. Close by are a series of emerald green swamps, which are fed by the melting snows of Kilimanjaro. These, the only sources of water in this otherwise starkly beautiful but arid park, attract huge numbers of wallowing elephants, hippos, buffalos, and plains game. Meanwhile, from the prehistoric site of Observation Hill, the sunset over Kilimanjaro is magnificent.

At the centre of ‘Maasailand’, the lodge’s décor reflects the brilliant primary colors and iconic shapes representative of these legendary warriors. At the heart of the lodge, shaded by palm trees, is a free-form swimming pool; to either side of which stretches the rooms. Each room is housed in a single-story building opening directly onto the grounds, each reflecting a Maasai manyatta theme: each with its hand-painted wall frescos.

The central dining area is reached by a timbered bridge over a melt-water stream, while the lounge and bar feature a broad terrace and a blazing firepit where evening cocktails can be enjoyed. Activities include three daily game drives in custom-built traditional safari vehicles, ‘sundowners’ on Observation Hill, bush breakfasts and exotic Maasai bush suppers, Maasai dance performances, visits to Maasai villages, and tree-planting programmes.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Location

Amboseli National Park is in the south of Kenya on the border with Tanzania, a stone’s throw away from Mount Kilimanjaro. A four-hour, 240 km / 150 mi, drive southeast of Nairobi will put you at the park’s gate. Amboseli is in the Loitoktok District of Kenya.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Wildlife highlights

Amboseli’s unique geography has defined the park by producing permanent swamps which are a magnet for both wildlife and birds. Elephants thrive here and the small size and excellent protection have meant that elephants can reach maturity without being poached. The big tuskers dominate the show.

There are around 1500 of these swamp-loving elephants, one of the highest concentrations of elephants anywhere in Africa. Because of its small size and excellent infrastructure, Amboseli is considered an excellent all-year-round African safari destination. 

On your Amboseli safari, you can expect to see many of the savannah wildlife – giraffes, Grant’s, and Thompson’s gazelles, buffalo, hartebeest, waterbuck, eland, wildebeest, and Burchell’s zebra. In the drier areas, you will be lucky to spot gerenuk and fringe-eared oryx as well as bat-eared foxes, caracal, jackals, and serval cats. With relations between wildlife and communities improving, the Amboseli predators have made a comeback. You will see lions and hyenas though cheetahs and leopards remain elusive. 
 
As many as 400 bird species have been counted at Amboseli National Park. The combination of seasonal lakes, permanent swamps, and dry plains make it a bird-watcher utopia. There are about 47 species of raptors, including martial eagles, fish eagles, and secretary birds. Taveta golden weavers are common and the endangered Madagascan squacco heron is also present. Palearctic migrants make their appearance in the safari low season.

With many of Amboseli’s tracks running close to bodies of water, water birds are abundant. Long-toed lapwings, rufous-bellied herons, crowned cranes, kingfishers, pelicans, hammerkops, and more. Birding safaris are recommended in the rainy season from November to April when birds are attracted to the abundance of water and food.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Accommodation

With amenities to rival the best safari lodges in Kenya, our 92 rooms and one suite feature complimentary wireless Internet, 24-hour room service, and private balconies. For the comfort and convenience of families and groups, we offer nine sets of interconnecting rooms.

The lodge’s luxury ensuite rooms are accommodated in two single-story dedicated buildings, which lie to the right and left of the main reception and dining areas. Each tastefully-appointed room features a Maasai-inspired, hand-painted, wall fresco, king-sized bed or luxurious twins, lavish all-encompassing mosquito-curtaining, bathroom (with walk-in shower), writing/vanity unit, and private verandaDining and bars.

The central dining area is reached by an internal timbered bridge over a melt-water stream and is flanked by water gardens. The walls feature hand-painted wildlife murals while the décor reflects the traditional artifacts of the Maasai people. The spacious lounge and bar feature a broad terrace and a blazing firepit where evening cocktails can be enjoyed.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Breakfast and Lunch

Breakfast and lunch are presented in buffet style and feature a wide range of international choices. In typical safari style, we offer a ‘full English Breakfast’ as well as European options while our lunch menus will typically include meat, poultry, fish, and vegetarian options.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Dinner

Our table d’hôte dinner menus feature a salad buffet, soup, entrée, pudding, cheese and biscuits, and tea or coffee. Vegetarian options are always available. The majority of our meat and dairy products, as well as our fruits and vegetables, are sourced from the communities that surround the reserve.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Theme Nights

The lodge offers three special ‘theme’ nights, which as well as offering a broad range of international options also feature a central ‘theme’.
Mongolian Night: presents a fusion of oriental stir-fry, BBQs, and spiced roasts
Pasta Night: features a range of homemade pastas and traditional Italian sauces
Kenyan Night: features such Kenyan favorites as ‘Nyama Choma’ (traditionally roasted meats), ‘Sukuma’ (local spinach cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander), ‘Posho’ (maize), and other delicious cultural specialties

Wines, Beers, Spirits & Soft Drinks

Our wine list offers a broad selection of old- and new-world wines, and local and imported beers and spirits. We also offer a wide range of soft drinks including an array of freshly-made local fruit juices. We serve only the finest Kenyan coffee and tea; we also offer a wide range of fruit and herbal infusions.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Bush dining

We are experts in arranging breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and cocktails in the bush. We have a dedicated ‘bush dining’ site immediately adjacent to the lodge as well as several panoramic sites within the park, such as ‘Observation Hill’ which looks directly towards Mount Kilimanjaro. These areas are typically presented with tables, safari chairs, a ‘bush bar’, and a ‘bush kitchen’, where a broad range of meats, poultry, fish, and vegetables are cooked on-site (supplemented by fresh soups, salads, and puddings from our hotel kitchens). In the evenings, ‘sun-downer’ cocktails are traditionally served around a campfire and can be followed by a lamp-lit ‘bush dinner’.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Child-friendly

The lodge offers 3 family rooms, each with a private entrance, two separate bedrooms, and a shared bathroom. We can also provide babysitting services (prior notice is appreciated).

All our meals are generous buffet-styled presentations with something to suit absolutely everyone. High chairs can be provided, as can baby-friendly food. We are also delighted to offer slightly earlier children’s meals (as early as 6.30 pm) – tailored to suit your children.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Activities & Amenities:

✓ We also offer a wide selection of board games and books on Africa and the wilderness
✓ Family breakfasts on safari or at Observation Hill
✓ Maasai dancing and cultural displays in our dedicated cultural display area
✓ The lodge’s professional nature guides also offer nightly talks and video presentations on wildlife
✓ Swimming pool (supervised by a qualified lifeguard but not suited to small children other than under parental supervision)
✓ Guided nature walks or bird-spotting on the grounds: Family game drives in our custom-built open-sided safari vehicles, which are ideal for children
✓ ‘Edutainment’: learn how to do Maasai beadwork, about Maasai warrior-hood, and learn Maasai tracking for beginners

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Conference and Event Facilities

The Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge has its dedicated conference facility, which is located immediately adjacent to the reception area. Uniquely presented with hand-painted wildlife wall frescos, it offers:
– ‘Meet and greet’ services
– Team-building programs
– A separate reception and registration area
– Delegate pads, pens/pencils, and individual mineral water supply
– Integral break-away area for workshops, coffee, tea, and cocktails
– A generous, air-conditioned room to accommodate up to 120 guests
–  PA system, LCD overhead projector, podium, flip charts, and marker pens
– Modern, modular event furniture, which can be tailored to your specifications
– Business support (secretarial services, photocopying, WiFi, and a full range of global communications)

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Weddings and Honeymoons

– Maasai guard of honor
– Tailor-made wedding cake
Garden or Kilimanjaro-view wedding ceremony
– Photography and videoing of your special day
– Cultural dance performance for you and your guests
– Sumptuous floral arrangements, bouquets and buttonholes
– Special accommodation packages for the entire wedding party
– Colourful range of guest entertainments – choirs, guitarists, disco
– Individually themed champagne reception – at the lodge or in the bush
– Private candle-lit honeymoon dinner for two: in the lodge or our private wilderness area adjacent to the lodge
– Luxurious suite (with private rooftop terrace) supplied with tropical fruit, chilled champagne, and your own personal ‘honeymoon cake’

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge – What to Do and See:

✓ Do some swimming or sunbathing
✓ Have ‘sun-downers’ on Observation Hill
✓ Plant a tree for Africa as part of our eco-programme
✓ Learn more about the wilderness; wildlife talks and videos nightly
✓ Take in some professionally guided nature walks around the lodge or in the park
✓ Learn more about the fascinating Maasai culture by visiting a local manyatta (village)
✓ Enjoy a unique ‘exotic Maasai dinner’ with a campfire, hurricane lamps, and Maasai warriors
✓ Learn more about Amboseli’s unique birdlife – professional ornithological tours – for amateurs or professionals
✓ Take 2 game drives daily (6.30 am and 4 pm), both in our custom-built open-sided six-person safari vehicles (professional guides, refreshments on-board, radio links for fast location of game)

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Non-Residents Rates Per Night Includes;

Full Board Accommodation

Notes

* Extra meals 40 US Dollars per person
* Picnic Lunch 35 US Dollars per person
* No half-board reduction on the full-board meal plan
* Amboseli Family Room supplement 50 US Dollars per Room per day
* Young adults 13 to 17 years are charged 75% of the per person, the adult twin rate
* Children ages 3 to 12 years are charged 50% of the per person, adult twin rate
* Children in their own room are charged 75% of the per-person adult twin rate. Minimum 2 children in a room
* Children under 2 years sharing a room with an adult will be accommodated complimentary (maximum two). Whilst sharing a room with one or two adults

Extra Activities at an Extra Cost

* Bush Barbeque Lunch – 45 US Dollars
* Lunch only (Per person) – 45 US Dollars
* Cultural Talk (Per person) – 30 US Dollars
* Nature walk (Per person) – 35 US Dollars
* Bubbly Sundowner at observation hill – 65 US Dollars
* Bush Barbeque Dinner (Exclusive beverages) – 50 US Dollars
* Bush Barbeque Dinner (Inclusive beverages) – 65 US Dollars
* Bush Barbeque breakfast at observation hill – 60 US Dollars
* Traditional Dancers (Per group performance) – 280 US Dollars

Game Drive

*  Game drive (Per person) – 150 US Dollars
* Day game drive (Per person) – 130 US Dollars

Transfers

* Namanga transfer (Per vehicle each way) – 400 US Dollars
* Amboseli Airstrip transfer (Per person each way) – 50 US Dollars
* Emali Train Station transfer (Per person each way) – 100 US Dollars

1. Which room types are in Amboseli Serena Lodge?

Amboseli Serena Twin Room: The Twin Room is ideal for guests traveling with a companion who prefers separate beds. It features two comfortable twin-sized beds with vibrant Maasai-inspired décor, creating a warm and cultural ambiance.

Guests can enjoy a private balcony that offers views of the park, where wildlife such as elephants and gazelles can often be spotted in the distance. This room provides a perfect blend of comfort and cultural immersion, with modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.

Amboseli Serena Double Room: The Double Room is perfect for couples or solo travelers, offering a spacious king-sized bed with an elegant design that reflects the Maasai culture.

The room comes equipped with a private balcony where guests can take in breathtaking views of Amboseli National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. With its stylish interiors, this room provides a restful retreat for guests, while offering all the comforts of modern luxury, including air conditioning and a well-stocked minibar.

Amboseli Serena Family Room: The Family Room is designed with families in mind, featuring two interconnected bedrooms. The main bedroom has a king-sized bed, while the second bedroom is furnished with two twin beds.

A shared bathroom connects both rooms, providing convenience for families traveling together. The room’s private balcony overlooks the vast park, offering plenty of space and stunning views, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a memorable safari experience. The design integrates Maasai cultural elements, ensuring a truly unique stay.

Amboseli Serena Ol Donyo Oibor Suite: The Ol Donyo Oibor Suite is the epitome of luxury at Amboseli Serena Lodge, offering a private, exclusive experience for those seeking the best of the best.

This suite is designed for VIPs, honeymooners, and those who wish to indulge in the lodge’s finest offerings. It features expansive living areas, a private rooftop terrace, and panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The suite is furnished with luxurious decor, inspired by Maasai artistry, and includes premium amenities to ensure an unforgettable stay. It’s the perfect place for guests seeking ultimate comfort and an extraordinary connection with nature.

2. What extra services does Amboseli Serena Lodge offer?

Meetings and Conferences: Amboseli Serena Lodge provides comprehensive facilities for meetings and conferences, ideal for corporate travelers. The lodge’s dedicated conference room can accommodate up to 150 delegates, offering modern audiovisual equipment and a setting that blends business with the stunning natural surroundings of Amboseli. The event team helps coordinate all aspects of meetings, from logistics to catering, ensuring a smooth and productive experience.

Weddings and Honeymoons: The lodge is also a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, providing a beautiful and intimate setting for couples. With its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding savannah, couples can exchange vows in various picturesque locations within the lodge.

The planning team offers tailored packages that include Maasai cultural performances, custom catering, and exclusive services such as private dinners on a rooftop terrace. The lodge ensures every detail is personalized, making it a perfect venue for unforgettable celebrations.

3. What hotel activities are available at Amboseli Serena Lodge?

Guided Game Drives: One of the most popular activities at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is guided game drives, where guests can explore the Amboseli National Park with expert guides. These drives offer a chance to see the park’s diverse wildlife, including its famous elephant herds, lions, cheetahs, and more. The game drives are tailored to the time of day, ensuring the best opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Bush Walks and Bird Watching: For those who want to experience the park more intimately, the lodge offers guided bush walks. These walks allow guests to explore the park on foot, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and the Maasai community. Additionally, bird watching is a highlight of the area, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the park, providing bird enthusiasts with abundant opportunities to spot rare and beautiful species.

Cultural Visits: The lodge offers cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages, where guests can immerse themselves in the local traditions and way of life. Visitors can watch Maasai dances, learn about traditional crafts, and engage in conversations with the local community. This offers a unique cultural perspective and an enriching experience for guests.

Sundowners and Spa Treatments: Guests can enjoy a sundowner at Observation Hill, where they can relax with drinks while watching the stunning African sunset over the savannah. For those seeking relaxation, the lodge’s spa offers a range of wellness treatments, including massages and facials, ideal for unwinding after a day of activities.

4. What hotel facilities are available at Amboseli Serena Lodge?

Accommodation: The lodge features a variety of accommodation options that blend traditional Maasai design with modern luxury. Guests can choose from cozy twin rooms, spacious family suites, or luxurious suites with private terraces offering spectacular views. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, mosquito nets, and a range of eco-friendly services that enhance the guest experience.

Dining Options: The dining facilities at the lodge cater to a variety of tastes, from international buffets to local dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine at the main restaurant or enjoy outdoor meals with scenic views. The lodge also offers a bar and lounge area where guests can relax with a drink, as well as special dining options such as bush dinners and breakfast picnics for those looking for a more unique experience.

Conference and Event Facilities: The lodge is also equipped with a conference room, suitable for business meetings, seminars, and other events. The space is fully equipped with modern technology, including audiovisual equipment and wireless internet, making it a convenient venue for corporate events and conferences.

Swimming Pool and Wellness: Guests can enjoy the swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens, offering a relaxing spot after a day of adventure. The lodge also features a spa, where guests can unwind with various treatments, ensuring that there is always time to relax and rejuvenate in between activities.

5. What are the food and drink options at Amboseli Serena Lodge?

Main Restaurant: The main restaurant at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge offers a wide range of international and local dishes. The buffet-style breakfast and lunch are designed to cater to all tastes, with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes featured prominently.

For dinner, the lodge offers a variety of à la carte options, with an emphasis on Kenyan cuisine. Guests can enjoy their meals in a comfortable dining room that reflects Maasai culture with colorful murals and traditional décor.

Sundowners: The Sundowner experience at Amboseli Serena Lodge is an exceptional way to end a day of exploring. Guests can relax and enjoy refreshing drinks while watching the African sunset from the lodge’s Observation Hill.

As the sun dips behind Mount Kilimanjaro, the stunning views of Amboseli National Park provide a magical backdrop. The experience is often accompanied by light snacks, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of safari adventures. Whether enjoying a glass of wine or a signature cocktail, the Sundowner offers both relaxation and a chance to soak in the beauty of the African landscape.

Bush Dinner: A Bush Dinner is a unique and memorable dining experience at Amboseli Serena Lodge. Set in a stunning outdoor location within the park, guests dine under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

Lantern-lit tables and a traditional Maasai cultural performance set the stage for an intimate and unforgettable evening. The meal typically includes a variety of dishes, with options to suit all tastes, including fresh local ingredients prepared in a traditional African style. This special dining experience allows guests to connect with nature while enjoying a delicious, gourmet meal in an extraordinary setting.

Bush Breakfast: The Bush Breakfast at Amboseli Serena Lodge is designed for early risers and adventure seekers. After a thrilling early morning game drive, guests enjoy a hearty breakfast in a picturesque location in the park.

Tables are set with scenic views, and guests are treated to a selection of breakfast favorites, including freshly brewed coffee, juices, pastries, fruits, and hot meals. The experience allows guests to reflect on the morning’s safari while savoring delicious food amidst the vast African landscape.

Mongolian Night: Mongolian Night at the Lodge is an exciting culinary event that introduces guests to a fusion of Asian and barbecue flavors. The evening features a variety of oriental stir-fries, BBQ meats, and spiced roasts, allowing guests to experience bold and vibrant flavors from the Far East.

The highlight of the evening is the live cooking station where chefs prepare stir-fries right before guests’ eyes, adding an interactive element to the meal. The fusion of Mongolian spices with traditional BBQ techniques creates a feast that is both savory and memorable, perfect for guests seeking a unique dining experience.

Pasta Night: Pasta Night is a delicious homage to Italian cuisine, where guests can enjoy a variety of homemade pasta and traditional Italian sauces. The evening features freshly made pasta paired with a selection of rich, flavorful sauces such as classic marinara, creamy Alfredo, and hearty Bolognese.

The meal is complemented by a selection of antipasti, fresh bread, and desserts. Pasta Night is perfect for those who enjoy comfort food and a taste of Italy in the heart of Africa, making it an enjoyable and indulgent dining experience.

Kenyan Night: Kenyan Night offers a true cultural immersion through food, with a focus on local specialties that highlight the country’s rich culinary heritage. Guests are treated to dishes such as Nyama Choma, a deliciously roasted meat typically served with traditional accompaniments;

Sukuma, a flavorful dish of local spinach cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander; and Posho, a staple maize-based dish that is both hearty and comforting. Kenyan Night is an excellent opportunity for guests to savor the authentic flavors of Kenya, providing a deeper connection to the country’s culture through its food.

Special Dietary Options: The lodge caters to various dietary requirements, offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher meal options. Whether it’s for a special dietary need or personal preference, the chefs at the lodge are happy to accommodate guests, ensuring that all meals are both delicious and satisfying.

Mobile: + 254-721-242-711
WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711
Reservations: +254 718-179-967
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com