Chyulu Hills National Park
National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park

Kenya 741 km² (286 mi²) Est. 1983

About Chyulu Hills National Park

The Chyulu Hills are a young volcanic range rising like a green spine between Amboseli and Tsavo West, often described as having the most beautiful views in Kenya. These emerald hills, formed just 500 years ago, are among the youngest volcanic formations on Earth and serve as a critical water catchment feeding Mzima Springs in Tsavo West. Covering 741 square kilometres, the park encompasses rolling green hills, ancient lava tubes, and open grasslands with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro. The Leviathan cave system beneath the hills is one of the world's longest lava tubes. Elephant herds migrate through the Chyulus between Amboseli and Tsavo, and the hills support lion, leopard, buffalo, and diverse birdlife.

0

Safari Tours

4.0

Avg Rating

4/5

Big Five

43

Years Protected

Highlights

  • Arguably the most stunning views in Kenya — Kilimanjaro and rolling green hills
  • Ancient lava tubes including the massive Leviathan cave
  • Critical elephant migration corridor between Amboseli and Tsavo
  • Almost no other visitors — true off-the-beaten-track experience
  • Unique volcanic geology only 500 years old

Considerations

  • Very limited infrastructure and accommodation options
  • Requires 4x4 and good navigation skills
  • Wildlife density lower than nearby Amboseli or Tsavo
  • Few established game tracks

Wildlife

Big Five Status

🦁

Lion

occasional

🐆

Leopard

occasional

🐘

Elephant

common

🦬

Buffalo

common

🦏

Rhino

Not present

Notable Species

Lion

Occasional

Leopard

Occasional

Elephant

Common

Cape Buffalo

Common

Giraffe

Occasional

Zebra

Common

Eland

Occasional

Common Occasional Rare

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal

Climate Overview

Getting There

The Chyulu Hills are approximately 200 km (4 hours) from Nairobi, accessed via the Emali-Loitokitok road or through Tsavo West. Flights to nearby Amboseli or Tsavo airstrips connect via short drive. Best accessed from Amboseli lodges.

Nearest Airport

Amboseli Airstrip

Nearest City

Emali

Drive Time

4 hours