Kenya

Chyulu Hills National Park

A pristine volcanic wilderness of young lava fields, ancient caves, and rolling green hills between Amboseli and Tsavo West, offering exclusive walking safaris and exceptional views of Kilimanjaro.

About Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park protects one of the youngest volcanic landscapes in the world, where some lava flows are estimated to be only 500 years old. The hills rise dramatically from the surrounding plains forming a spine of rounded peaks covered in montane forest and open moorland. The park connects the Amboseli and Tsavo West ecosystems and forms part of a critical wildlife corridor. Walking safaris are the signature experience here, guided by Maasai warriors through lava tubes, ancient caves, and open wilderness. The Leviathan Cave, one of the longest lava tube caves in the world, runs beneath the hills. Kilimanjaro views from the hills on clear mornings are exceptional.

When to Visit

Best Time to Visit

June to October and January to February

Climate

Highland and semi-arid volcanic climate. Cooler than surrounding lowlands. Rain falls mainly from March to May and November to December.

Highlights & Considerations

Why Visit

Exclusive and uncrowded wilderness
Walking safaris with Maasai guides
Stunning Kilimanjaro views
Fascinating volcanic geology and lava caves
Part of a major wildlife corridor

Good to Know

Very limited accommodation options
Requires advance planning and booking
No standard game drive circuit
Roads are rough and require 4WD
Relatively few large mammal sightings in open areas

Location

Coordinates: -2.6000°N, 37.8500°E

Where You'll Stay

Hotels & Lodges in Chyulu Hills National Park

Our handpicked selection of accommodation at this destination, from tented camps to luxury lodges.

★★★★★ Ultra-Luxury

ol Donyo Lodge

A world-class ultra-luxury lodge in the Chyulu Hills ecosystem with iconic Kilimanjaro and Amboseli views, private room pools, Maasai-guided walking safaris, and extraordinary horse-riding through the lava wilderness.

$2,500 / night