Lemala Camps & Lodges Expands into Kenya with Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp Acquisition

Lemala Camps Acquire Tulia Amboseli Camp

Kenya’s safari landscape just got more exciting! Lemala Camps and Lodges, a leading name in East African safari experiences and a proud member of the Tourvest Integrated Tourism Group, has made its grand entrance into Kenya by acquiring Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp.

Nestled just outside Amboseli National Park, this charming camp is set to blend Lemala’s operational excellence with Tulia’s authentic, nature-immersed hospitality. Here’s everything you need to know about this milestone and why Tulia Amboseli should be on your safari radar! 

A New Chapter for Tulia Amboseli

Leanne Haigh CEO Lemala Camps LodgesTulia Amboseli Safari Camp, located on the edge of Amboseli National Park with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, has long been a favorite for travelers seeking an intimate connection with nature.

Renowned for its proximity to Amboseli’s famous elephant herds and its authentic, community-integrated charm, Tulia will retain its name and unique identity under Lemala’s stewardship. Guests can expect the same thoughtful experiences, now enhanced by Lemala’s commitment to sustainable, low-impact tourism and exceptional service.

  “We’re thrilled to welcome Tulia Amboseli into the Lemala family,” said Leanne Haigh, CEO of Lemala Camps & Lodges. “Amboseli is one of Africa’s most iconic destinations, and Tulia’s prime location offers guests a front-row seat to its wildlife and landscapes.

This acquisition strengthens our presence in East Africa while honoring our dedication to conservation and local partnerships.” 

Lemala’s approach emphasizes preserving Amboseli’s delicate ecosystem by growing through acquisition rather than adding new beds.

The partnership also continues its collaboration with Tulia’s founder, Barry McGonigle, who remains active in the region through Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris. His deep knowledge and community ties will ensure Tulia remains a cornerstone of authentic Amboseli experiences. 

Why Visit Amboseli National Park?

Amboseli is a bucket-list destination, famous for its vast elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and the majestic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.

The park’s open savannahs, seasonal wetlands, and acacia woodlands create a stunning setting for game viewing, photography, and cultural encounters with the Maasai community. Staying at Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp places you in the heart of this iconic region, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. 

How to Get to Amboseli

Amboseli National Park is easily accessible from Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, making it a convenient add-on to any Kenyan safari itinerary.

Here are the main options: 

By Road: The drive from Nairobi to Amboseli takes about 4–5 hours (approximately 240 km) via the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. The route offers scenic views, and private transfers or guided safari vehicles can be arranged through Safari Desire. 

By Air: For a quicker journey, take a scheduled or chartered flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli’s airstrip, a 45-minute flight. Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp is a short drive from the airstrip, with transfers available. 

From Other Parks: Amboseli pairs well with visits to Tsavo West or Chyulu Hills, accessible by road or connecting flights, making it ideal for multi-destination safaris.

Best Time to Visit Amboseli

Tulia Amboseli Camp Acquired by Lemala lodges and campsAmboseli is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:  Dry Season (June–October, January–February): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, and the skies are clear for stunning Kilimanjaro views. This is peak season, so book early! 

Wet Season (March–May, November–December): The park transforms into a lush, green paradise with fewer crowds, perfect for birdwatching and photography. While rain may occur, it typically doesn’t disrupt safari activities.

Activities at Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp

Tulia, now backed by Lemala’s expertise, offers a range of activities to immerse you in Amboseli’s magic: 

Game Drives: Explore Amboseli’s wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and giraffes, with expert guides during morning and evening drives. 

Birdwatching: Spot over 400 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and raptors, especially during the wet season. 

Cultural Visits: Engage with the Maasai community through village visits to learn about their traditions and way of life. 

Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris: Experience Amboseli from above with a hot-air balloon ride, offering panoramic views of the park and Mount Kilimanjaro (operated by Barry McGonigle). 

Photography Tours: Capture the park’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife, with Kilimanjaro as a stunning backdrop.

Most of out tours above 4 days in duration include Amboseli National Park. More especially our Kenya safaris from Mombasa.  

Safari Packages Featuring Tulia Amboseli

Ready to experience Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp?

Safari Desire offers several packages that can include a stay at Tulia, combining Amboseli with Kenya’s other iconic destinations.

Here are a few options : 

6 Day Kenya Classic Safari:

A 6-day journey through Amboseli, Naivasha, and Maasai Mara. 

Our 3 Day – Amboseli Luxury Safari starting from Nairobi;

A 3-day Kenya itinerary focusing on Amboseli National Park.

04 Day Kenya Safari to Amboseli & Tsavo:

A 4-day luxury safari combining Amboseli and Tsavo West National Park

Lemala’s Commitment to Sustainability

Lemala Camps and Lodges is renowned for its eco-conscious approach, and Tulia will benefit from these initiatives.

From eliminating single-use plastics to transforming waste into school furniture and distributing reusable sanitary pads to Maasai girls, Lemala’s efforts support both the environment and local communities.

By choosing Tulia, you’re contributing to responsible tourism that preserves Amboseli’s beauty for future generations. 

Plan Your Amboseli Adventure

With Lemala’s acquisition of Tulia Amboseli Safari Camp, there’s never been a better time to explore this iconic Kenyan destination.

Visit www.lemalacamps.com for more details on Tulia and Lemala’s offerings, and contact Safari Desire to craft your dream safari, tailored to include Tulia’s unique charm. 

Follow our Instagram Page; @SafarisDesire for the latest updates on Kenya’s safari scene and exclusive travel tips! 

Masai Mara National Reserve Entry Fees from 2024

Masai Mara New Entry Fees 2024

The Narok County Council (NCC), the custodian of the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve, has introduced revised entry fees effective January 1, 2024, aimed at sustaining conservation initiatives and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Travelers are advised to take note of the updated rates, categorized into two distinct travel seasons.

Masai Mara Entry Fees for Low Season – January to June

For the period spanning January 1 to June 30, 2024, inclusive, the entry fees for non-residents are as follows:

USD 100 per day for adults

USD 50 per day for children aged 9 to 17 (children aged 8 and below enjoy free admission)

Masai Mara Entry Fees for High Season – July to December

From July 1 to December 31, 2024, inclusive, the entry fees for non-residents are adjusted to:

USD 200 per day for adults 

USD 50 per day for children aged 9 to 17 (with complimentary admission for children aged 8 and below)

It is imperative to acknowledge that these revised park fees will apply to all visitors to the Masai Mara National Reserve starting January 1, 2024. Consequently, any existing confirmed or provisional bookings will be subject to these updated charges.

The augmented entry fees play a pivotal role in fortifying conservation efforts, fostering infrastructural development within the Reserve, contributing to the well-being of neighboring communities, and ultimately elevating the already extraordinary Masai Mara safari experience.

In addition to the fee adjustments, a new regulation has been implemented with immediate effect—the 12-hour rule (6 am to 6 pm). This rule applies to guests departing the Masai Mara National Reserve after 11 am, incurring an additional full-day park fee. Guests following the morning flight schedule remain unaffected by this regulation.

Masai Mara Park Entry Fees 2024Moreover, visitors engaging in activities such as hot air balloon safaris within the Mara Triangle/Mara Conservancy on the day of departure are required to pay a full-day park fee for that day.

These comprehensive updates and regulations signify the commitment of the Narok County Council to the preservation of the Masai Mara’s ecological integrity, the empowerment of local communities, and the continual enhancement of the overall safari experience for all visitors.

Check out our 3 Days Masai Mara Safari from Nairobi, for inspiration, in case you are planning to visit Kenya for a wildlife safari. 

More about Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve, often referred to as the “jewel” of Kenya’s wildlife parks, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and prolific wildlife. Nestled in southwestern Kenya along the Tanzanian border, this iconic reserve spans over 1,500 square kilometers, forming part of the larger Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, famous for the annual Great Migration of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores.

The Masai Mara is a year-round destination, each season offering a unique and captivating experience. However, the dry season from June to October is widely considered the best time to visit. During this period, the vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot wildlife, and the Mara River becomes a dramatic stage for the Great Migration as vast herds cross perilous waters in search of fresh grazing grounds. The dry season also coincides with the famous wildebeest river crossings, a spectacle that attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers from around the world.

Safari enthusiasts visiting the Masai Mara are treated to an unparalleled wildlife spectacle. The reserve is home to the “Big Five” — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinoceros — as well as an abundance of other wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The open savannahs, dotted with acacia trees, provide an ideal setting for game drives, balloon safaris, and guided walks, allowing visitors to witness the incredible biodiversity up close.

In addition to its rich wildlife, the Masai Mara is steeped in cultural significance, inhabited by the Maasai people who coexist with the wildlife. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with the local Maasai communities, experiencing their traditional dances, and crafts, and gaining insight into their nomadic way of life. The Masai Mara is not merely a destination for wildlife enthusiasts; it is a multifaceted experience that seamlessly combines natural wonders, cultural immersion, and an indelible connection with the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. Masai Mara can be combined with one of the most iconic national parks in Africa; Serengeti National Park. Check out our 6 Days Kenya and Tanzania safari that combines these two most iconic wildlife safari parks in the world.