Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
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Room & Suite (375)
Dining (67)
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About
#3 of 13 Specialty lodging in Amboseli National Park
Location
4.7
Cleanliness
4.6
Service
4.6
Value
4.3
Travelers' Choice
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge was created for adventurers with an African dream. With Mount Kilimanjaro soaring majestically just beyond the golden, acacia-specked savannah, the safari lodge offers a graceful blend of stark beauty and lavish comfort in the heart of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Nestled in an acacia grove by a gentle mountain spring, our hotel, comprising a Maasai-inspired design, a garden restaurant and a palm-shaded swimming pool and sundeck, provides uninterrupted views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. In every detail, the ambience captures the essence of Maasai culture, warmth and indomitable spirit. The setting our Amboseli safari lodge is breathtakingly beautiful, the wildlife abundant and the cuisine, hospitality and amenities unrivalled. Mornings bring stirring views of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peaks. Whether embarking on a safari to see “The Big Five” (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino), planting your very own tree as part of our Re-Forestation Programme, or enjoying a bush dinner and glass of wine as the bonfire cinders waft into the indigo night, your stay will be infused with unforgettable moments. Answer the call of the wild at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge – a destination rich in undiscovered experiences.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Bar / lounge
Walking tours
Babysitting
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Business Center with Internet Access
Secured parking
Wifi
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary welcome drink
Kid-friendly buffet
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Kids club
Conference facilities
Massage
24-hour security
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Concierge
Currency exchange
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Shops
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Express check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Desk
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Seating area
Coffee / tea maker
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Wardrobe / closet
Bottled water
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
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Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Smoking rooms available
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Park View
Great View
Languages Spoken
English, Swahili
Location
Amboseli National Park Kenya
Getting there
Rental CarsSee all Amboseli National Park rental cars
1137Reviews21Q+A100Room tips
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It was a bit of a shock to reach this huge oasis in the middle of Amboseli after being in a 15 tent camp in the Mara. However, the staff were, without exception cheerful and helpful. Despite the size, I didn’t feel like it was overcrowded when I was there. The food was mostly buffet-style which was ok for a couple of days. It’s a long journey here (6/7 hours) by jeep from Nairobi and I wouldn’t repeat that again anytime soon so I’d recommend flying if possible.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
On arrival our first contact was with the 7ft Masai concierge Kiringai. His effusive and enthusiastic welcome and willingness to help set the scene for a very memorable visit for this oasis in a desert setting. Lovey bars and pool and good food with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop and passing mongoose, Guinea Fowl and monkeys to amuse whilst you had breakfast. The very cleverly designed lodges were fresh and comfortable. I’d highly recommend it.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Don’t forget the lovely a pool area where Gideon will seamlessly look after your every need. ...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
A very mediocre hotel with basic food - bad display and lighting for buffets , small rooms , small bathroom , very small shower and very noisy rooms wzout any sound proof where u can hear your neighbours even talking . Nice staff though and not like many others with a water pond near by to allow animals to get close . Would recommend a better one .
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Dear Veritas, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback following your recent stay at our lodge. I appreciate your detailed comments, as they help us identify areas where we can improve and better meet our guests' expectations. We are glad to hear that you found our staff to be accommodating and that you appreciated our outdoor spaces. Regarding your concerns about the rooms, I apologize that you found them smaller than anticipated and that you felt that there wasn't adequate soundproofing between rooms. We will take these comments into consideration when the lodge undergoes its next refurbishment in the near future. We also take your feedback on the lighting and display for our buffets seriously and will work with the kitchen team to improve the quality of the offering, lighting and presentation of the buffet. We genuinely appreciate your feedback, as it allows us to make necessary adjustments to ensure a better guest experience. Thank you once again for choosing our lodge for your stay, and we hope to have the chance to exceed your expectations in the future. Warm regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Wonderful lodge and great service from the employees. The buffet was good with different cuisines each day at breakfast as well as dinner. The property was well maintained and the views of Animals was amazing from the back of the property. Our bed was comfy too. Lots of monkeys so keep the doors latched.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear Oagar, Thank you for taking the time to share with us feedback on your recent stay with us. My team and I are delighted to hear you enjoyed your stay. We hope to have another opportunity to host you, hopefully in the not-too-distant future. Regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Serena was an unexpected pleasant surprise at the very end of my 7-day trip to Kenya. It was definitely the busiest place I stayed, but the attention and care by the staff was no less than places I stayed that were far less crowded. And I felt the attention was more sincere (it seems like everywhere else I visited staff were just following a script). Now I must give a special call-out for my safari guide, Eliud, provided by the hotel. Eliud was soft-spoken and sometimes hard to hear over the roaring engine, but his enthusiasm for the animals was palpable. What a joy to be guided by someone who shows the same enthusiasm for animals as his guest. As if he was seeing the animals for the first time, like me. During my second game drive we were joined by some obnoxious guests who only wanted to see lions. I appreciate Eliud’s persistence in showing us all that Amboseli offered, despite the other guest’s infantile interests. Finally, I should mention the food at Serena was the best of any place I visited in Kenya.…
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear bdander, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your delightful experience on your recent stay with us. I'm thrilled to read your review and I truly appreciate your kind words. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us. Our dedicated staff members strive to ensure that each guest receives attentive care and a genuine experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Your recognition of their sincere efforts means a lot to us. I'm happy to hear that Eliud, your safari guide, left such a positive impression on you. Eliud's passion for animals and his genuine enthusiasm for sharing the wildlife experience is what makes him such a valuable asset to our team. Your kind feedback is inspiring and serves as a great source of motivation for us. We're grateful for your patronage and honoured that you chose Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge to be a part of your memorable trip. If your future travels bring you back to Kenya, we would be overjoyed to welcome you once again and provide another exceptional stay. Wishing you the very best in your journeys ahead. Warm regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The whole set up and decoration of this hotel was perfect and immersive. It has a large site with plenty of space. The rooms were well sized with a good bathroom. We did have an issue with our toilet but this was dealt with very efficiently. The restaurant was lovely with great food. The terrace was large with plenty of seating to enjoy a drink in the evening or early morning before a game drive. We didn’t get a chance to use the pool but it looked nice with a great look out to the animals. We stayed up late and had an elephant come right up to the fence
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Navigate33791705113, Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed experience at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge. We truly appreciate your kind words and are thrilled to hear that your stay with us was a memorable one. We're pleased that you found our rooms spacious and well-appointed, providing you with comfort during your stay. We apologize for the issue you experienced with the toilet but are glad to hear that our team efficiently addressed the matter, ensuring your overall comfort was not compromised. It warms our hearts to hear that you enjoyed the culinary offerings at our restaurant. Our chefs take pride in crafting delectable dishes, and we're delighted that you had a wonderful dining experience. Thank you once again for choosing to stay with us. We can't wait to welcome you back for another incredible adventure. Warmest regards, David M. ShItakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
teachersvacation wrote a review Aug 2023
Hertfordshire, United Kingdom10 contributions15 helpful votes
+1
This is the start to a safari that you wish for ! Met at Emali train station by friendly drivers, ready for our two hour drive back to the lodge. The drivers knew their stuff, and made us feel safe and reassured. It became a bumpy ride, but that’s what’s it all about! The place itself has a swimming pool outside, which we didn’t use. But the back drop took my breath away. You are in the middle of nowhere, and it’s stunning and peaceful. The food here was good. The accommodation is simple, but the decor and little touches make the place. Thank you for having us.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded Aug 13, 2023
Dear teachersvacation, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. My team and I are overjoyed to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us . We hope to have another opportunity to be of service to you in the not-too-distant future. Regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
There is no way this overnight stay was worth the money. Its overpriced, overstated. The rooms are pokey and SO noisy. Mattress was comfy as too were the bed linens. Bathrooms are really small. They are in the park but are NOT ecofriendly at all. Food was plentiful, all buffet style, but mediocre standard. Service was ok at best but at breakfast, non existent. The lunch box was partly edible, definitely unimaginative and expensive for what was in it. The box itself was wrapped in clingfilm (no idea why) 2 apples (no idea why), small yoghurt, juice, piece of chicken, a chicken roll, cashews, chocolate bar, marble cake (delish), another filled roll that tasted awful, a pack of crackers ALL wrapped in clingfilm. I paid about 500$ for a double Fullboard and was 100% left wondering what I actually paid for or where the money goes. I would never reccomend Serena to anyone, nor return unless there was no other option. Very sad indeed as their location is perfect which is why I guess they can charge what they like and not back it up with A* service, spectacular food and a lodge with great fixtures and fittings. Security guard in the carpark was pleasant as too was the gentleman on the gate. And as we left, literally at the gate, about 70 cattle grazing. Funnily enough we did not pay 60$ to visit a premium park and see cows.…
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded Aug 13, 2023
Dear sandravW1019OB, Thank you for sharing your feedback regarding your recent stay at our property. We truly appreciate your honest and detailed review, as it gives us valuable insights into areas where we can improve and enhance our guest experience. We deeply regret that your stay fell short of your expectations and that you didn't feel that you received value for the amount you paid. Your comments regarding the room size, noise levels, and bathroom facilities are noted, and we apologize for any inconvenience you experienced in this regard. It's disappointing to hear that our eco-friendly efforts did not meet your expectations; we are continuously working to improve our sustainability practices and appreciate your feedback on this aspect. We apologize for any lapses in our service, particularly during breakfast. Your feedback serves as a reminder to us to continuously improve in this area and ensure that our guests receive prompt and attentive service throughout their stay. Your comments regarding the lunch box contents and packaging are also valuable. We will review the offerings and presentation to ensure a better dining experience for our guests. We truly regret that we did not meet your expectations during your stay and that our location, which you appreciated, was overshadowed by the other aspects of your experience. We take your feedback to heart and will strive to make necessary improvements to provide the exceptional experience our guests deserve. Once again, thank you for your review. We hope that you might reconsider and give us another chance to provide you with the experience you rightfully expect and deserve. Warm regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The lodge is located strategically in the centre of the national park, so that’s an advantage of staying here. However, the place gets too loud throughout the day with the super-thin room walls that allow noises coming from all corners. So there is an issue of quietness & privacy. The staff here does much better work than the same Serena Ngorongoro that we stayed. Food is varied & property is expansive. One can relax in the bar overlooking garden , watching sunset & enjoying music.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded Aug 2, 2023
Dear traveltotelltales, Thank you for taking the time to share your valuable feedback about your recent with us. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the variety of food options and the expansiveness of our property. Our team takes great pride in ensuring a diverse culinary experience and a relaxing atmosphere for all our guests. The bar overlooking the garden, with its stunning sunset views and music, is indeed one of our guests' favourite spots to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Amboseli. I do apologize for any inconvenience caused by the noise levels in the rooms. We understand the importance of quietness and privacy during a stay, and we acknowledge your concerns. The issue of soundproofing will be addressed in the next refurbishment that the lodge will undergo. Once again, thank you for choosing Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge as your destination, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back in the future. Warmest regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My family stayed here as our first stop on safari. The lodge is so very close to everything. The lodge is super cute and rooms had ample space (we were gone on drives) so really only slept and showered here. The food was served Buffett style with many options and was very tasty. Staff were attentive and friendly. There is a nice pool area to sit beside during breaks midday. It is quite cool in pool though. But the view from pool side out to the park with animals roaming is to die for! As for the park, it was nuts how many animals are around! It was a great way to kick off our family adventure. I would for sure recommend this lodge to travelers!
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from David Shitakha, General Manager at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear travellingcroots, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. My team and I are delighted that you enjoyed your stay with us. We hope to have another opportunity to be of service to you in the not-too-distant future. Regards, David M. Shitakha Lodge Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Amboseli National Park area.
PRICE RANGE
$258 - $446 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
amboseli serena safari hotel amboseli national park
LOCATION
KenyaRift Valley ProvinceAmboseli Eco-systemAmboseli National Park
NUMBER OF ROOMS
95
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Claim Your ListingAMBOSELI SERENA SAFARI LODGE $130 ($̶2̶7̶6̶) - Updated 2023 Prices & Reviews - Amboseli National Park, Kenya
Frequently Asked Questions about Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Observation Hill (3.0 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
Top room amenities include a desk, a mosquito net, and a view of the mountains.
What food & drink options are available at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge offer any business services?
Yes, guests have access to a business center and conference facilities during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Swahili.
Does Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the park view available here.
Is Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms. For specific inquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.