Rugesana

I just read in another message that it takes six hours to reach Swala from Arusha.
We have already booked a private safari. We had planned to leave Amboseli in the morning, have lunch in Arusha and then travel to Swala. Is this possible or would it be better to stay overnight in Arusha before goiing on to Swala?

Leely

Six hours? On what, a bicycle?

I don't recall ever seeing it would take 6 hours from Arusha to Swala, even considering Swala is deep inside the park.

I do think Amboseli to Tarangire is a long day, though. Eben, Sandi and those who have stayed at Swala can give you a better idea of times.

But six hours?!

Leely

Clarification: my surprise/disbelief re: 6 hours is the estimate of drive time from Arusha to Swala. Amboseli to Tarangire would, I think, take longer than 6 hours.

climbhighsleeplow

1.5 to 2 hours from Arusha to Tarangire Main gate (115km).

2 hours (67km) from main gate to Swala if you take it easy (which you should).

Rugesana

Thank you so much for your replies. I think I will try to make some adjustments to our itinerary.

sandi

From Amboseli to Swala, yes, it's easily 6-hrs or more. Depending on where you're departing from in Amboseli, the drive to the Namanga border can be 2-hrs; border procedures/transfer (1-hr max, usually only 30-min); 1+hr to Arusha... then as Eben mentions to Swala.

But not 6-hrs from Arusha to Swala.

Stopping in Arusha is good and gives you time to stretch your legs and be out of the vehicle for an hour or so. Then continue to Tarangire. Once you enter the park, you'll enjoy a game drive on your way to Swala.

This routing between Amboseli is done all the time; no reason to overnight in Arusha - and miss game viewing? I don't think so!

Rugesana

Thanks so much Sandi. Now I feel so much better leaving the itinerary as it is. I think you are right that it's more important to go on game drives.