Chyulu Hills is about 30 km southwest of Kibwezi and approximately 190 km southeast of Nairobi. It was Gazetted in 1973. Chyulu Hills National Park is tucked away between Tsavo West National Park and Amboseli National Park. Chyulu Hills National Park boasts striking and diverse landscapes. Chyulu is a rugged wilderness still showing signs of its volcanic origins – and boasting some of the best views of Kilimanjaro. The reserve is a rugged jumble of ancient volcanic cones and craters, as well as the longest lava tube in the world. In addition to the breathtaking landscapes and views, Chyulu is home to a wonderful selection of game, including buffalo, antelope, elephant, leopard, wildebeest and zebra. The bird watchers’ paradise of Lake Jipe lies in the south-west corner of the reserve. It is water catchment for Mzima springs.

Accessibility:

• Roads: By road from Kibwezi: turn right off the Mombasa Road (coming from Nairobi) at Kibwezi, onto a sign posted road that leads after 9 kms to Kithasyo Gate and park HQ. By road from Tsavo West: It is possible to enter the park from Tsavo West
• By Air: The Park has two airstrips

Attractions

• Breathtaking views from the Chyulu Hills, cave exploration, one camp site next to park headquarters.
• Reptiles: Black Mamba, Puff Adder, Rock Python, Gecko, Tortoise and Lizard.
• Insects/arthropods: Dung Beetles, Butterflies and Tsetse fly.
• Common Animals are Buffalo, Bushbuck, Eland, Elephant, Leopard, giant forest hog, bush Pig, reedbuck, mountain, Steinbok and giraffe

Conservation Initiatives

Chyulu Hills National Park is a crucial conservation area known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. Efforts to protect this park focus on habitat restoration, wildlife protection, and community engagement. Initiatives include anti-poaching patrols, which help safeguard endangered species like the African elephant and the black rhinoceros. The park also emphasizes sustainable tourism practices that support local communities while preserving the environment. Additionally, reforestation programs aim to restore native vegetation and improve water catchment areas, ensuring the resilience of the park’s ecosystems.

Collaborative efforts between government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities are vital in promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in the region.