The area has low rainfall ; however, water flowing underground from Mount Kilimanjaro wells up here in a series of lush papyrus swamps that provides dry season water and forage for wildlife. The vegetation is semi-arid. The park is an exciting and diverse game viewing destination and is undoubtedly the best place in Africa to get the closest view of free – ranging elephants.
At the edge of the park is Tortilis, a tented camp shaded by a natural “grove” of Tortilis Arcacia (the Umbrella Thorn Tree). It is an awe inspiring place of peace and solitude, nestled humbly opposite the foothill of the magnificent snow capped north face of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The exterior design is simplistic and unobtrusive, made from natural materials to ensure a seamless flow between the lodge and the surrounding bush, ensuring the ecosystem is not compromised by its presence.
The interiors of the seventeen tents are comfortable and luxurious, thoughtfully designed to ensure privacy and tranquillity. The earth toned soft furnishings which are made from traditional handmade African fabrics and complimented by local artefacts, blend perfectly into the natural surroundings.
All tents have King size or generous twin beds, a dressing area and large, comfortable modern bathrooms with pressured hot showers. The tents are raised on wooden decks and sheltered by makuti (thatched) roofs which overhang large verandahs where guests can enjoy their morning coffee whilst savouring the scent of the grass and bush - the essence of untouched wilderness and a picture perfect view of the highest mountain in Africa. In the afternoon guests can enjoy a siesta and then awake to a beautiful and vast pink sunset. The camp also boasts a sparkling swimming pool.
The Tortillas camp is owned by an Italian family and their Italian heritage is reflected in the food. The rustic Northern Italian cuisine is very much part of the camps charm, where meals are lovingly prepared with vegetables and herbs from the camps own garden.
Guests can enjoy scenic game drives through the Amboseli National Park to observe the behaviour of elephants in their family groups. Other wildlife includes zebra, herds of wildebeest, buffalo and lion. The park is also rich in bird fauna with over 400 species of bird recorded, including 40 birds of prey.
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