Chyulu Hills National Park

Immortalized by Ernest Hemingway as “The Green Hills of Africa,” Chyulu Hills National Park is one of Kenya’s most enchanting landscapes — a rolling sea of emerald-green hills rising above the plains between Amboseli and Tsavo. This volcanic wonderland is a place of quiet beauty, lava caves, and endless horizons, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Overview

Stretching between Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks, Chyulu Hills is a striking mountain range formed by ancient volcanic activity. The park covers about 741 square kilometres, featuring lush forests, open grasslands, and dramatic black lava flows.

It’s one of Kenya’s youngest volcanic regions, and though the hills have been dormant for centuries, their rugged terrain and mysterious caves continue to fascinate explorers.

Chyulu Hills is ideal for travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path safaris, hiking, and panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro — all in a tranquil, less crowded setting.

Wildlife and Attractions

The park may not have the dense animal populations of the Maasai Mara, but its wilderness offers a raw, untouched beauty and diverse ecosystem.

Wildlife highlights include:

• Elephants, buffaloes, eland, giraffes, leopards, warthogs, and zebras roaming freely through the forests and grasslands.

• Predators such as leopards and cheetahs, though sightings are rare.

• Birdlife: Over 300 species, including the Hartlaub’s turaco, African hawk-eagle, and white-starred robin — making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Top attractions:

• Leviathan Cave: One of the world’s longest lava tube caves, stretching several kilometres underground.

• Shetani Lava Flow: A vast, otherworldly field of black rock created by a volcanic eruption centuries ago.

• Kibwezi Forest: A lush groundwater forest on the park’s eastern edge, home to butterflies, monkeys, and rare birds.

• Scenic Views of Mount Kilimanjaro: On clear days, the snow-capped peak forms a stunning backdrop against the green hills.

• Horseback and Walking Safaris: A unique way to explore the park’s peaceful terrain, often organized by nearby conservancies.

Activities

Chyulu Hills is perfect for travellers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Popular activities include:

• Guided nature walks and hikes to explore the rolling hills and caves.

• Scenic drives with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Tsavo plains.

• Cave exploration at Leviathan and other lava tubes.

• Birdwatching and wildlife photography.

• Horseback safaris offered by local lodges.

• Camping under a starlit sky, surrounded by silence and sweeping views.

Accommodation

There are a few excellent options both inside and around the park — from luxury eco-lodges to rustic campsites.

Top options include:

• Ol Donyo Lodge: A luxurious lodge offering horseback safaris, private guides, and stunning views of Kilimanjaro.

• Campi ya Kanzi: An award-winning eco-lodge run in partnership with the local Maasai community, known for its sustainable tourism.

• Public and special campsites managed by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for self-sufficient travellers.

Best Time to Visit

Chyulu Hills can be visited year-round. The dry seasons (June–October and January–March) are best for hiking and clear mountain views, while the green seasons make the hills even more vibrant and photogenic.

How to Get There

• By Road: About 250 km from Nairobi, accessible via Emali or Kibwezi towns. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.

• By Air: Charter flights can land at Ol Donyo airstrip or Kibwezi airstrip.

Travel Tips

• Bring warm clothing — temperatures can drop at night due to the altitude.

• Hire a local guide for hiking or cave exploration.

• Carry enough water and fuel; facilities inside the park are limited.

• Combine your visit with a safari to Amboseli or Tsavo West for a diverse southern Kenya adventure.