Mbulia Conservancy

Mbulia Conservancy is a 12,000-acre community-owned wildlife conservation area situated between Tsavo East National Park and Tsavo West National Park. Established in 2011, it plays a vital role as a migration corridor and dry-season refuge for wildlife, especially elephants.

The conservancy is a model of community-based conservation, transforming former poaching zones into thriving, secure wildlife habitats through sustainable tourism and local partnerships.

Location & Accessibility

Mbulia Conservancy lies in Taita-Taveta County, on the southeastern border of Tsavo West National Park. It forms part of the larger Tsavo ecosystem and is situated near the town of Voi, with panoramic views of the Mbulia Hills.

How to Get There:

By Road:

✓ From Voi Town: 38 km (around 40 minutes)
✓ From Mombasa: 5 hours via Voi Gate
✓ From Nairobi: 6–7 hours via Mtito Andei Gate or Manyani Gate

By Air:

✓ Private airstrip at Kipalo Hills for charter flights
✓ Alternative: Kilaguni or Manyani Airstrips with transfer by safari vehicle

By Rail:

✓ SGR to Mtito Andei Station (approx. 40–50 km away)
✓ Road transfer from the station to the lodge can be arranged

Conservation History & Purpose

✓ Supports anti-poaching efforts and habitat restoration
✓ Revenue is reinvested in ranger training, local employment, and education
✓ Created as an alternative to land subdivision and to combat increasing poaching
✓ Provides a secure habitat for migratory species between Tsavo East and Tsavo West
✓ Formed in 2011 by the Mbulia Group Ranch in collaboration with conservation NGOs

Wildlife & Viewing Opportunities

Large Mammals:

✓ Leopards, lions, spotted hyenas
✓ African wild dogs (occasionally sighted)
✓ Buffalo, eland, giraffe, impala, dik-dik, warthogs
✓ Elephants (frequent the area during the dry-season)

Birdlife:

✓ Over 400 species recorded
✓ Secretary birds, hornbills, rollers, weavers
✓ Raptors such as martial eagles and bateleurs
✓ Excellent birding year-round, especially after the rains

Activities & Experiences

Game Drives:

✓ Morning and evening drives within the conservancy
✓ Led by experienced guides or KWS-licensed rangers
✓ Wildlife tracking and sundowners with panoramic views

Guided Bush Walks:

✓ Conducted by armed guides for safety
✓ Interpretive walks around the conservancy
✓ Learn about animal tracks, medicinal plants, and bird species

Fly-Camping:

✓ Ideal for adventurous visitors seeking solitude
✓ Stars, campfire meals, and authentic bush immersion
✓ Rustic overnight camping along riverbeds or hillsides

Cultural Visits:

✓ Tours to local Taita communities
✓ Opportunities to learn about traditional lifestyles and conservation roles

Photography Safaris:

✓ Best light during early morning and dusk
✓ Unique backdrop of Mbulia Hills and semi-arid terrain
✓ Low visitor numbers allow private, uninterrupted wildlife moments

Accommodation

Kipalo Hills Lodge is the only lodge located within Mbulia Conservancy. Perched on the slopes of the Mbulia Hills, it offers sweeping views across the conservancy and into Tsavo West. The lodge was built in partnership with the local community as a means to generate income while protecting wildlife and habitat.

The lodge features nine luxury tented suites, including a honeymoon villa with a private plunge pool. All tents are en-suite and positioned for privacy and excellent wildlife viewing.

Facilities include: an infinity pool, a central lounge, and solar power for sustainability. Kipalo Hills serves as the perfect base for all conservancy activities, blending eco-conscious comfort with wilderness adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (June–October):

✓ Ideal for walking safaris and game drives
✓ Peak wildlife concentration at water sources
✓ Clear skies, open terrain, excellent for photography

Wet Season (November–May):

✓ Fewer visitors and fresh air
✓ Lush green landscape and vibrant birdlife
✓ The calving season for herbivores and predators becomes more active

Conservation Challenges & Solutions

Challenges:

✓ Climate variability and prolonged drought
✓ Land pressure from nearby human settlements
✓ Poaching threats due to proximity to larger parks

Solutions:

✓ Community employment to reduce the poaching incentive
✓ Education and awareness programs for youth and pastoralists
✓ Fully staffed ranger team trained in anti-poaching and tracking
✓ Partnerships with conservation NGOs and local governance structures
✓ Beekeeping, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism as alternative livelihoods

Visitor Tips

✓ Always explore with registered guides or rangers
✓ Stay hydrated and follow lodge guidelines during bushwalks
✓ Carry binoculars and long-lens cameras for distant wildlife
✓ Dress in neutral, breathable clothing and wear sturdy shoes
✓ Early morning (6:30–9:30 AM) and late afternoon (4:30–6:30 PM) are prime game viewing hours

Why Visit Mbulia Conservancy?

✓ Home to a growing population of elephants and predators
✓ Combines luxury, authenticity, and conservation in one experience
✓ Protects a critical wildlife corridor between Tsavo East and Tsavo West
✓ Tourism directly supports local livelihoods and anti-poaching programs
✓ Offers an exclusive safari experience with few vehicles and pristine scenery
✓ Close to Tsavo West’s main attractions, including Mzima Springs and Ngulia Hills