Chyulu Hills National Park

About Chyulu Hills National Park

Chyulu Hills National Park was the inspiration and setting for Hemingway’s “Green Hills of Africa”. The park is home to Kenya’s last endemic rhino population and some of Africa’s last ‘big-tuskers. With huge investments made into the preservation of this crucial habitat the area is an inspiring example of Kenya’s commitment to preserving it natural heritage. Historic volcanic eruptions have resulted in the verdant rolling plains, ancient lava flows and geological characteristics that give the park its natural beauty.

Chyulu Hills Wildlife

Chyulu Hills boasts a variety of rare and exciting species including Kenya’s last endemic rhinos. Undoubtedly, it is the regions elephants for which the park is famed. Enormous bull elephants with tusks so impressively long that they have to be seen to be believed. They are a reminder of what elephants would most likely look like had humans not spent so long poaching them for their ivory – making the Chyulu Hills an incredibly special Kenyan safari destination, especially for elephant lovers.

The park has historically suffered at the hands of poachers. Sometimes the wildlife can seem skittish but successful conservation is slowly reversing this. Lion, elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, buffalo can all be found in the region among a variety of other plains game and safari activities can be very quiet and rarely crowded.

Best Places to Stay in Chyulu Hills National Park

Our preferred Chyulu Hills lodge is the Ol Donyo Lodge. There are also alternative camp and lodge options in the region. 

Talk with one of our experts today to discuss the best options for you.

Best Time to Visit Chyulu Hills National Park

The best time to visit Chyulu Hills National Park is during the drier months between June and October, when wildlife tends to stay near water and is easier to find. As these are the peak travel months in Kenya, accommodation can be booked up well in advance and parks and reserves can be busier. We advise booking well ahead if you’re looking for a family safari in the Chyulu Hills during the school holidays.

The park is a good year-round destination unlike most other Kenyan national parks. During the wetter months between November and May Chyulu Hills is very quiet, and there is not as much dust in the air which means that views of Kilimanjaro in the morning and afternoon are more likely, although not guaranteed. Contact us today to discuss the ideal time to book your Chyulu Hills safari holiday.