Chyulu Hills National Park

Kenya


One of Kenya’s least-visited parks, Chyulu Hills National Park is a line of pretty green hills that rise above the arid plains between Amboseli and Tsavo West. The park is dominated by extinct volcanoes. At the same time, this park is something of a disappointment – you’re likely to see more herders with their cattle than wildlife, and poaching remains a problem here.

The only reason to visit the park proper is Leviathan, one of the world's longest lava tubes, or some surprisingly dense cloud forest clinging (like the park border) to the ridgeline, and accessible by 4WD from the Nairobi–Mombasa road. Otherwise, admire the hills from afar (eg from neighbouring Tsavo West National Park), and consider visiting instead the hills' western slopes beyond the park borders – Ol Donyo and Campi ya Kanzi are two of the loveliest lodges in southeastern Kenya.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kenya attractions

1. Leviathan

3.89 MILES

At 12km in total length, the aptly named Leviathan is one of the longest lava tubes in the world, and the longest in Africa. This type of cave is created…

2. Shetani Caves

23.37 MILES

Close to (and geologically part of) the Shetani Lava Flows, Shetani Caves are a result of volcanic activity. You’ll need a torch (flashlight) if you want…

3. Shetani Lava Flows

23.54 MILES

About 4km west of the Chyulu gate of Tsavo West National Park, on the road to Amboseli, are the spectacular Shetani lava flows. ‘Shetani’ means ‘devil’ in…

4. Poacher's Lookout

29.16 MILES

A short distance northwest of Severin Safari Camp, this hilltop vantage point offers fine views out over the park, and especially fine views west to the…

5. Maasai Cattle Market

29.8 MILES

If you're in the Amboseli area on a Tuesday, consider stopping in the town of Kimana (along the paved road between Emali and Oloitokitok) for its weekly…