© Art Wolfe/DanitaDelimont.com
Life in the wild
Masai giraffes roam the vast landscape of Amboseli National Park in Kenya. With some more than 18 feet in height, giraffes are the world's tallest land mammals. Along with prehensile tongues that are more than a foot and a half long, they use their impressive height to eat leaves found almost 20 feet from the ground. They're also faster than you might think, able to sprint up to 37 mph over short distances. Giraffes are common in East Africa and can be seen grazing in grasslands, woodlands, and reserves.
Established 50 years ago, Amboseli National Park covers more than 150 square miles. Its swamps and wetlands teem with wildlife, including 400 species of birds, 40 of which are birds of prey. During safaris, people can see giraffes and four of Africa's 'Big Five' animals up close—lions, leopards, elephants, and African buffalo. Amboseli offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional Maasai way of life through cultural interactions, livestock herding, and coexistence with wildlife.