Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills Overview

Chyulu Hills National Park, locally known as Hifadhi ya Taifa ya Milima ya Chyulu, is a pristine haven located in southeastern Kenya, nestled between Tsavo and Amboseli National Parks. Covering approximately 741 square kilometers (286 square miles), the park boasts an ethereal landscape of rolling green hills, volcanic cones, and ancient lava flows that are as dramatic as they are tranquil.

The Chyulu Hills, formed by volcanic activity around 500 years ago, are home to some of the youngest volcanic mountains in the world. This geological marvel includes the iconic Leviathan Cave, one of the longest lava tubes globally, stretching over 11 kilometers (6.8 miles). Visitors can explore these underground wonders, witnessing a surreal labyrinth of tunnels and formations that bear testimony to the area’s fiery origins.

The park’s hills offer breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days, making it a favorite destination for photographers and nature lovers. The landscape is dotted with open savannahs, dense forests, and seasonal streams that attract a variety of wildlife. Iconic species such as elephants, giraffes, and buffalos traverse the park, while elusive predators like leopards and cheetahs are also present. The area is also home to endemic species, including the Chyulu Hills bush viper, adding to its ecological significance.

For bird enthusiasts, Chyulu Hills is a paradise. Over 200 bird species have been recorded, including the Hartlaub’s bustard, eastern chanting goshawk, and white-headed buffalo weaver. The park’s diverse habitats support both migratory and resident birds, offering year-round opportunities for birdwatching.

Chyulu Hills National Park is known for its unique combination of volcanic landscapes and thriving ecosystems. The lush montane forests serve as critical water catchments, feeding rivers such as the Tsavo and Galana, which sustain wildlife and local communities. These forests are also rich in indigenous plant species, some of which have medicinal value.

Conservation efforts in the park are spearheaded by the Kenya Wildlife Service in collaboration with local Maasai communities. Initiatives focus on mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, protecting endangered species, and promoting ecotourism. Community conservation programs empower local populations to participate in safeguarding the park’s resources while benefiting from sustainable tourism revenues.

Activities in the park include guided hikes, birdwatching, and exploring the lava tubes. Adventurers can also embark on horseback safaris or camping expeditions, immersing themselves in the tranquility of this untamed wilderness. The park’s proximity to Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks allows for seamless inclusion in broader safari itineraries.

In conclusion, Chyulu Hills National Park is a gem of natural and geological diversity, offering visitors a chance to experience Kenya’s unique landscapes and wildlife. Its combination of scenic beauty, ecological importance, and cultural connections make it an essential destination for nature enthusiasts.

Park Map

Chyulu Hills National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Predators

Chyulu Hills National Park, with its mix of volcanic terrain and open savannah, is home to an impressive array of predators that dominate the food chain.

Leopard
This elusive and solitary big cat prowls the park’s dense thickets, relying on stealth to ambush prey.

African Lion
Roaring through the grasslands, these apex predators work in prides to secure large herbivores as prey.

Cheetah
Known for their unmatched speed, cheetahs can be seen sprinting across the open plains in pursuit of antelope.

Spotted Hyena
Renowned scavengers and skilled hunters, these hyenas roam in clans, vocalizing with eerie laughs.

Serval
This medium-sized wildcat, with its strikingly spotted coat, thrives in the grasslands, hunting rodents and birds.

African Wild Dog
Rare yet fascinating, these highly social and strategic pack hunters roam the park’s remote areas.

Caracal
A masterful hunter, the caracal leaps effortlessly to catch birds and small mammals in mid-air.

Jackal
These opportunistic predators often scavenge but are also adept at hunting small prey like hares and rodents.

Rock Python
Though a constrictor and not a mammal, this snake qualifies as a predator, often preying on small mammals.

Honey Badger
Fiercely independent and fearless, honey badgers can hunt venomous snakes and raid hives with equal prowess.

Birds

The park’s diverse habitats make it a haven for bird species, from raptors to colorful songbirds.

Augur Buzzard
Often seen soaring over the hills, this raptor is known for its distinctive white underparts and reddish tail.

Hartlaub’s Turaco
Brightly colored with green and red plumage, this bird thrives in the park’s forested areas.

Secretary Bird
Easily recognizable by its long legs and crest, this ground-dwelling bird hunts snakes and small mammals.

Superb Starling
With its iridescent blue and orange plumage, this starling is a common sight in the savannah.

Crowned Hornbill
This striking bird, with its curved bill, is often spotted in the park’s wooded regions.

African Hoopoe
Sporting a crest and bold black-and-white patterns, this bird is known for its distinctive call.

Lesser Kestrel
A small falcon, this species migrates to the park and preys on insects in open areas.

White-browed Coucal
With its rich brown and white plumage, this bird prefers dense thickets near water sources.

Green Wood Hoopoe
This noisy bird is often seen in groups, its emerald feathers shimmering in sunlight.

Pied Kingfisher
Hovering over water before diving, this bird is an expert fisherman, commonly seen near streams.

Share your clicks with us

You can now upload photos of national parks with just few steps.

Engaging Chyulu Hills National Park

Game Drives

Wildlife safaris through Chyulu Hills National Park are an exhilarating way to experience its biodiversity. Open-roof safari vehicles provide unobstructed views as visitors traverse diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to dense acacia forests. Key wildlife sightings include majestic elephants traversing migration routes, cheetahs stalking prey in the plains, and prides of lions basking under shady trees.

Visitors might also spot rarer species like the oryx and lesser kudu. Game drives are often timed for early morning or late afternoon, maximizing chances to witness animal activity during cooler hours. Expert guides enrich the experience by sharing their knowledge of animal behavior, the ecological significance of the park, and the interplay between predators and prey.

The safari experience is elevated by the breathtaking backdrops of volcanic hills and distant Kilimanjaro, creating unforgettable memories.

Hiking

Walking through the volcanic terrain of Chyulu Hills is an adventure that immerses visitors in the park’s dramatic geological history. Experienced guides lead groups along trails that snake through black lava flows, ancient volcanic cones, and rugged terrain dotted with unique vegetation.

Highlights include exploring underground lava tubes, some of which are among the longest in the world, where visitors marvel at natural rock formations and learn about the volcanic forces that shaped the landscape millions of years ago. The ascent of the rolling hills offers panoramic vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro, particularly spectacular at sunrise or sunset when the light bathes the surrounding savannah in golden hues.

Along the way, hikers encounter unique flora, such as hardy acacia species and rare orchids, while guides provide insights into the delicate balance of this ecosystem. This activity combines physical exercise, education, and awe-inspiring scenery, making it perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Birdwatching

For bird enthusiasts, Chyulu Hills National Park offers a paradise of avian diversity. With over 400 bird species recorded, the park’s varied habitats—wooded slopes, open grasslands, and wetlands—provide ample opportunities for spotting rare and endemic species.

Birdwatching tours often begin at dawn when birds are most active, with expert guides helping visitors identify species by their calls and plumage. Notable sightings include the iridescent Hartlaub’s turaco, secretary birds striding across the plains, and crowned hornbills perched on tree branches.

Visitors may also catch glimpses of migratory species during certain seasons, adding to the excitement. Quiet observation moments are complemented by the soothing sounds of nature, making birdwatching a meditative experience. These tours cater to both seasoned birders and novices, blending discovery with relaxation as participants immerse themselves in the park’s tranquil beauty.

Related National Parks

Chyulu Hills Overview

Park Map