Chyulu Hills National Park- A home to abundant wildlife

Nestled between the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and the vast Tsavo National Park, Chyulu Hills National Park stands as a hidden gem within Kenya’s diverse landscape. Located in the southeastern part of the country, this pristine wilderness offers visitors a unique blend of volcanic scenery, verdant forests, and abundant wildlife. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the essence of Chyulu Hills National Park, uncovering its location, activities, attractions, best time to visit, transportation options, and accommodation offerings.

Location:

Chyulu Hills National Park is situated in the southern part of Kenya, straddling the border between Makueni and Kajiado counties. The park covers an area of approximately 741 square kilometers, encompassing a range of ancient volcanic hills, lava flows, and expansive grasslands. Its strategic location between Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks makes it easily accessible from Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, and other major cities in the region.

Activities in the Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the most popular activities include:

Game Drives at Chyulu Hills National Park:

Embark on guided game drives through the park’s diverse habitats, encountering a wealth of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. The park’s open grasslands and acacia woodlands provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with the chance to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Nature Walks:

Explore Chyulu Hills’ pristine wilderness on foot with guided nature walks led by experienced guides. Traverse ancient lava tubes, lush forests, and scenic viewpoints while learning about the region’s geological history, flora, and fauna. Guided walks to the park’s volcanic craters, such as the Leviathan and Shetani caves, offer insights into the park’s volcanic past and unique landscapes.

Horseback Riding at Chyulu Hills National Park:

Experience the thrill of horseback riding amidst the breathtaking scenery of Chyulu Hills National Park. Guided horse safaris allow visitors to explore remote corners of the park inaccessible by vehicle, offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Birdwatching:

Chyulu Hills National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 300 bird species, including numerous raptors, waterfowl, and forest birds. Set out on birdwatching excursions to spot colourful species such as the Hartlaub’s turaco, white-headed buffalo weaver, and martial eagle amidst the park’s varied habitats.

Cultural Encounters at Chyulu Hills National Park:

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the local Maasai communities surrounding Chyulu Hills National Park through cultural visits and interactions. Engage with Maasai warriors, learn about their traditional way of life, and participate in cultural activities such as beadwork, spear throwing, and traditional dances.

 

Attractions in the Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park is home to a wealth of natural wonders, scenic landscapes, and iconic attractions that captivate visitors’ imaginations. Key attractions within the park include:

The Chyulu Hills:

Towering over the landscape, the Chyulu Hills are a series of ancient volcanic cones and lava flows that form the centerpiece of the park. These majestic hills offer panoramic views of the surrounding plains and distant Mount Kilimanjaro, making them a popular destination for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing.

The Leviathan Cave:

One of the park’s most famous attractions, the Leviathan Cave is a massive lava tube formed by ancient volcanic activity. Visitors can explore the cave’s dark passages and chambers, marveling at its unique rock formations and eerie atmosphere.

The Shetani Lava Flows at Chyulu Hills National Park:

Named after the Swahili word for “devil,” the Shetani Lava Flows are vast expanses of black volcanic rock stretching across the park’s landscape. These otherworldly formations offer a glimpse into Chyulu Hills’ volcanic past, with opportunities for guided walks and geological exploration.

The Underground Chyulu Forest:

Hidden beneath the park’s volcanic soils lies a dense forest ecosystem known as the “underground Chyulu forest.” This unique habitat supports a variety of plant and animal species, including rare orchids, giant ferns, and small mammals such as bushbucks and duikers.

The Chaimu Crater:

Formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, the Chaimu Crater is a striking geological feature within Chyulu Hills National Park. Visitors can hike to the crater’s rim for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and distant Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.

 

Best Time to Visit Chyulu Hills National Park

The best time to visit Chyulu Hills National Park largely depends on personal preferences and outdoor activities. However, the dry seasons from June to October and December to March are generally recommended for optimal wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. During these times, the weather is mild, and wildlife tends to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Additionally, the months of June to September offer clear skies and excellent visibility, ideal for photography and hiking activities. Visitors should be aware that the park experiences hot temperatures during the day and cooler evenings, especially at higher elevations.

How to Reach the Park

Chyulu Hills National Park is accessible via several transportation options, with the most common routes being by road:

By Road:

From Nairobi, visitors can drive to Chyulu Hills National Park via the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, a journey of approximately 250 kilometers. The drive takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Alternatively, public buses and matatus (shared minivans) operate between Nairobi and nearby towns such as Kibwezi and Makindu, from where visitors can arrange for transportation to the park entrance.

By Air:

For those seeking a faster and more convenient option, domestic flights are available from Nairobi to nearby airstrips such as Kilaguni Airstrip or Tsavo West Airstrip. Several domestic airlines operate scheduled flights to these airstrips, with flight durations averaging around 1 hour. Upon arrival, visitors can arrange for transfers to Chyulu Hills National Park, either by private vehicle or safari vehicle.

Accommodation at Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury lodges to tented camps and rustic bush camps. Some of the most popular accommodation choices include:

Ol Donyo Lodge:

Nestled in the heart of Chyulu Hills National Park, Ol Donyo Lodge offers luxurious accommodation in spacious suites and villas with panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding plains. Guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine, spa treatments, and guided safari activities tailored to their interests.

Campi ya Kanzi:

Situated on the slopes of the Chyulu Hills, Campi ya Kanzi offers eco-friendly tented accommodation in a pristine wilderness setting. The camp features elegant tents with en-suite bathrooms, private verandas, and outdoor showers, as well as a swimming pool, restaurant, and guided safari activities led by experienced Maasai guides.