Tortilis Camp Amboseli

In the shadow of Kilimanjaro lies Tortilis Camp, at the border of Amboseli National Park.

The Camp

A Pioneer of Eco-Luxury

Named after the flat-topped Acacia tortilis trees that define the East African landscape, Tortilis Camp is a pioneer of sustainable luxury. Nestled in a private conservancy on the edge of Amboseli National Park, the camp is famous for its unrivaled, panoramic views of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, guests experience a gold-standard eco-retreat where elegant, thatched-roof architecture blends seamlessly into the wilderness, offering a front-row seat to the legendary elephant herds of the Amboseli ecosystem.

Tents

Authentic Safari Elegance

Tortilis Camp was one of the first eco-lodges of its size to be powered entirely by solar energy, successfully merging high-end comfort with a minimal environmental footprint. The camp features spacious, walk-in tents raised on wooden decks, each designed with traditional makuti (thatch) roofs and polished wooden floors to provide a cool, refined sanctuary in the heart of the bush.

  • 16 x Safari Tents (9 Doubles & 7 Twins)
  • 1 x Family Tent (Two en-suite bedrooms and a shared veranda)
  • 1 x Private House (Two en-suite bedrooms and a private sitting room)

The Family Tent and Private House are tucked away on a slight hill for added privacy and share an exclusive swimming pool.

Under the watchful gaze of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tortilis Camp offers a front-row seat to the majesty of the African wild. Each spacious tent is a sanctuary of rustic sophistication, designed to blur the lines between refined comfort and the raw beauty of the plains. It is a soulful retreat where the whispers of the acacia trees meet the timeless rhythm of the bush.

What to Do

Witness the legendary herds of elephants beneath the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro, explore the hidden corners of the conservancy on a night drive, or find serenity with a private bush breakfast in the heart of the wild.

There's plenty to do...

The Shadow of the Mountain: The Majesty of Amboseli

Amboseli National Park is a realm of staggering beauty, famously set against the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro—the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Known as the "Land of Giants," this iconic landscape is world-renowned for its massive herds of free-ranging African elephants, including some of the largest "Great Tuskers" left on the continent. Within this 39,000-hectare ecosystem, visitors are treated to unparalleled views of wildlife moving across shimmering salt pans and emerald-green swamps.

The park’s unique hydrology creates a sanctuary for a vibrant array of life, from prides of lions and elusive cheetahs to buffalo, wildebeest, and Maasai giraffes. For bird enthusiasts, Amboseli is nothing short of a paradise, with over 400 species recorded. The life-giving marshes are a magnet for pelicans, kingfishers, and vast flocks of flamingos that paint the wetlands in shades of rose. From the dramatic dust devils of the dry plains to the lush, palm-fringed springs, Amboseli offers a quintessential African safari experience in a setting of cinematic grandeur.

Activities

  • Game Drives

    Set out on morning or afternoon drives with a professional guide to witness Amboseli’s legendary elephant herds. Across the plains, discover zebra, giraffe, and wildebeest, while bird enthusiasts can marvel at over 450 species, including vibrant flamingos gathered in the park's emerald swamps.

  • Balloon Safaris

    Experience an adventure of a different kind as you drift above the plains at dawn. As the sky turns a soft pink, you’ll enjoy a silent, bird’s-eye perspective of the wildlife roaming below. This is the ultimate way to appreciate the vast scale and beauty of the Amboseli ecosystem.

  • Elephant Research Center

    Visit the base of the world-renowned Cynthia Moss, who has studied Amboseli’s elephants for over 40 years. Gain insight into the longest-running study of wild elephants ever conducted and learn how her ground-breaking research has shaped our global understanding of these majestic giants.

  • Night Game Drives

    As dusk falls, the bush transforms. This 1.5-hour excursion with an expert Elewana guide offers a rare, exhilarating glimpse into the world of nocturnal hunters and elusive creatures often missed by day. It is a mysterious and captivating way to see the wilderness come alive under the stars.

  • Walking Safaris

    For those seeking a closer connection to nature, a walking safari offers an intimate encounter with the wild. Led by experienced armed guides, you will learn to track footprints, identify indigenous flora, and discover how the local communities have thrived on this land for centuries.

  • Wellness & Relaxation

    Balance your daily adventures with a moment of tranquility. Refresh yourself with a dip in the cool waters of the swimming pool, or retreat to our dedicated wellness rooms for a soothing massage designed to rejuvenate the body and mind after a rewarding day on safari.

  • Wellness & Relaxation

    Take a stroll through our vibrant vegetable garden, the heart of our farm-to-table dining experience. Learn about the organic techniques used to grow our fresh ingredients and see firsthand how the flavors of the land are integrated into every meal we serve at the camp.

  • Community Visits

    Engage with the rich heritage of the region through an authentic Maasai community visit. This immersive experience offers a window into traditional culture and demonstrates the positive, lasting impact that sustainable tourism and conservation have on the local families.

  • Wildlife Warrior Training

    Designed for young explorers, this program teaches the traditions of the Maasai. Children can learn the art of fire-making, rungu throwing, and archery, while young creatives enjoy crafting traditional beaded jewelry alongside local villagers. It is an unforgettable journey into ancient skills.

  • School & Foundation Visits

    See how conservation acts as a catalyst for local development. Visit a school supported by the Land & Life Foundation to meet the students and teachers, gaining a deeper understanding of the educational initiatives and community projects that your stay helps to sustain.
Dining

The Culinary Experience

Dining at Tortilis is a celebration of both the land and the spirit of the safari. Grounded in a "farm-to-camp" philosophy, the menus are a vibrant reflection of the season, drawing inspiration from the bounty of our very own organic garden.

Freshly made pasta dishes are crafted before your eyes, accompanied by flavoursome grilled meats and vibrant salads. The dining room offers panoramic views of a waterhole where elephants gather, providing a captivating backdrop to your meal. Don’t miss out on our daily signature dinner dish, the “Taste of Africa,” which offers our guests a sampling of traditional dishes.

Our ‘Shamba,’ the East African Garden, is a source of immense pride for us. It stands as the largest within our group and bears fruit & vegetables abundantly. Its influence is evident in the delightful lunches we serve. Our chefs take great pride in their close collaboration with our dedicated gardeners, working hand in hand during planting seasons and striving to expand the variety it offers.

Whether you’re savouring a drink by the fireside, watching the sun gracefully set behind Mt. Kilimanjaro, or immersing yourself in our Bush Bar experience, we invite you to indulge in a must-try African Dawa. This delightful concoction is crafted from Konyagi, zesty limes, and locally sourced honey, promising a delicious and unique taste of Africa.

Breakfast experiences are truly exceptional, whether you’re enjoying a meal during one of our drives or savouring breakfast in the comfort of our camp. Be sure not to miss our freshly made waffles served with yoghurt sorbet – a delightful and energising way to kick-start your day.

Sustainability & Conservation

Our sustainability at Tortilis Camp is powered by solar energy and a circular resource model. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy on single-use plastics and a comprehensive waste strategy recycled through TakaTaka Solutions. By combining carbon monitoring under the Glasgow Declaration with traditional solutions like charcoal fridges and organic composting, we ensure a low-impact operation. These efforts, audited by the Land & Life Foundation and certified by Ecotourism Kenya, reflect our commitment to preserving the iconic Amboseli ecosystem.

Socially, we are defined by a decade-long partnership with the Esiteti Primary School and the Mbarinkoi community. Through the Land & Life Foundation, we have transformed educational infrastructure and provided secondary school scholarships for disadvantaged students. Beyond financial aid, we mentor the next generation through career open days and conservation talks. By investing in sustainable water access and drought relief, we empower our neighbours to drive independent change, ensuring the benefits of tourism are felt authentically across the entire community.

Any Questions

+254 730 127 000 reservations@elewana.com

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Tortilis Camp Amboseli Kitirua Conservancy, Edge of Amboseli National Park

Fast Facts

Accommodation

  • 16 x Safari Tents (9 Doubles & 7 Twins)
  • 1 x Family Suite (Two en-suite bedrooms and a shared veranda)
  • 1 x Private House (Two en-suite bedrooms and a private sitting room)

Activities

  • Shared game drives in custom 4x4 vehicles
  • Evening game drives (pre-dinner)
  • Guided bush walks (age restrictions apply to children under 16 yrs)
  • Bush breakfasts and sundowners
  • Cultural visits
  • Massages
  • Visit to Cynthia Moss’ Elephant Research base (booked and paid for direct with Cynthia Moss foundation prior to arrival)
  • Visit to school

Global Coordinates

  • -2.682731335788838, 37.18255229950294

Honeymoon Experiences

  • Bottle of sparkling wine on arrival in the tent
  • Romantic private dinner by the camp’s outdoor fireplace overlooking the waterhole
  • Complimentary 30-minute massage for the couple

Kids

  • Guided camp bush walks
  • School visit - normal term times
  • Warrior training
  • Jewellery making at extra cost
  • Children’s menu

Getting There

  • 45 minute flight from Wilson Airport (scheduled flights daily)
  • 45 min transfer from Amboseli airstrip to the Camp
  • 4 hour drive from Nairobi

Wow Factor

  • Unrivalled views of Mt. Kilimanjaro
  • Amboseli is home to elephant families that have been closely followed and studied by world renowned researcher Cynthia Moss for over 40 years.
  • Exclusive access to 121 Km2 of Kitirua private conservancy where guests can enjoy game drives, walks and bush breakfasts and, with off-road driving permitted, are able to get unparalleled photographic opportunities.

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