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