Overview

Chyulu Hills National Park is not popular in Kenya. But it is a great tourist destination. It has a spectacular view with rolling green hills and blue skies. If you love nature, you must visit this park. This protected area is about 741 sq. km. Although it has few wild animals, it is known for its long caves. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit the park.

Wildlife

Chyulu Hills National Park is not rich in wildlife. This is because of human activities such as grazing and poaching. But you may spot reptiles such as lizards, tortoises, black mambas, geckos, and rock pythons. You may spot other animals such as elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, leopards, and elands among others. Game viewing is one of the common activities in the park. You can also enjoy watching birds.

Weather

The weather in the park is quite good for travelers. Temperatures range between 20 and 30°c. Rains are common between November and March.

Chyulu Hills caves

Chyulu Hills volcano is one of the youngest in the world. The last eruption was in 1856. Inside the hills is the longest cave in the world. This is locally known as the Upper Leviathan Cave. It is 11.5 km long. Most travelers love visiting this cave.

Chyulu Hills Location

Chyulu Hills National Park is easily accessible. It is located in Makueni County. This is in the southeastern part of Kenya. It is about 232 km from Nairobi. It is about 250 km from Mombasa. It is an extension of Tsavo National Park. You can get there by road on the Nairobi-Mombasa road. You can get into the park through Tsavo West National Park. You can also travel by air. It has two airstrips.

Health and Safety

Your safety is guaranteed in the park. Professional guides ensure that all visitors are safe. Just ensure that you follow their guidelines and safety tips. Incidents are rare in this park. But low altitude areas (below 2,000 m) have a high risk of malaria. The risk is high during the rainy season. You may need to take prescription medicine to prevent the disease. Talk to your doctor about your trip for proper recommendations.

Chyulu Hills is a great tourist destination. Most tourists combine this destination with Tsavo National Park. Remember to carry drinking water, a camera, binoculars, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you plan to camp, carry the necessary equipment. Don’t forget a good torch if you plan to explore the caves. In this hidden paradise, you will enjoy various activities including horse riding and mountain climbing.

FAQs About Chyulu Hills National Park

• Where is Chyulu Hills National Park located?

It is located in Makueni County of Kenya. This is in the southeastern part of Kenya. It is about 232 km from Nairobi. Its latitude is -2.4287° S. The longitude is 37.7312° E. The park is tucked away between Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West National Park.

• Why visit Chyulu Hills National Park?

The park boasts breathtaking views, wildlife, and one of the longest caves in the world. It is a great destination for watching birds, game viewing, hiking, and camping. If you are on a photo safari, then, this is a perfect place. You will have great opportunities to capture great moments or features.

• Which is the best time to visit Chyulu Hills?

You can visit Chyulu Hills at any time of the year. Tourists are allowed in every day from 6.00 am to 7.00 pm. But visitors on foot are not allowed. Safaris during the wet season, especially during the long rains may be challenging. For perfect wildlife viewing, the dry season may be the best. This is usually from January to February and June to October.

• Is there accommodation in Chyulu Hills National Park?

There are no safari lodges or hotels in the park. But there are two camp locations. Most travelers choose to camp in the park. But there is ready accommodation outside the park.