Chyulu Hills is located approximately 190km south-east of Nairobi along the Nairobi Mombasa highway. It is a national reserve, occupying regions between the Tsavo and Amboseli ecosystem, making it a natural growth habitat. Wild animals from the national park spill over to the hills, among them the big-5. You also get to see different birds and insect species.  The hill reaches a maximum of 2,188m above sea level, and despite the dry surrounding, the hills have sufficient vegetation and ground cover. Also, its accessibility to the main road and proximity to the national parks makes it a good hiking destination for domestic and international tourism. Originally, it was part of the Tsavo National Park until 1983, when it was hived off due to its distinct nature.

The hiking starting point is the Chyulu Hills Campsite 5km from Kinyambu Market off the highway. Owing to the nature of the terrain, you need an armed Kenya Wildlife Service warden to escort you. Moving into the national park, you go through the thicket, with steep climbs, rocky terrain, and dense vegetation cover. Despite the climate in December, you will notice occasional fog on the way. From this point, you can see beautiful sceneries below, including the Nairobi – Mombasa highway snaking south-east. You can go north-westwards towards the green mountain ranges on day one and south-west deep into the national park on day 2.  The entire trek stretches covers 35km south towards the Kilimanjaro Viewpoint on the Tsavo and Chyulu National Parks border. The trail goes through steep and dusty terrains, bringing out the hike oomph. The plains in the South, acacia vegetation and British army training zones are visible as you enjoy the scenic views. You can set camp for the night and wake up to continue with the expedition. Other interesting sites include the Kisula Caves and Leviathan Caves, which are the world’s longest caves stretching 11.15 km. There are stare cases on the caves to ease access and picture a clear view of Mt. Kilimanjaro from a distance. 

The ecosystem falls within the hot and dry climate, but Chyulu Hills is cool for the better part of the year. You will see occasional rain, mist and a warm environment, making a micro-climate. Since it is December, dress light but carry warm clothes in case the cold settles in.