Viewpoints in Taita Taveta
Shetani Lava Flow: Is The Floor Lava?
Located about 20 km from Mtito Andei Gate into Tsavo West National Park, the Shetani Lava Flow, a vast, blackened expanse of solidified lava, stretching across the arid landscape, renders a stark and otherworldly contrast to the surrounding savanna. An unusual destination that is sure to leave a memorable impression. A viewpoint over a large outcrop offers one the best impressions of the eyecatching 8 km long and 1.6 km wide black lava flow, covering 50 km2. It’s backdropped by the iconic Chyulu Hills which caused its origin. It feels like stepping onto another planet. The contrast between the dark lava and the bright blue sky is breathtaking.
The Shetani Lava Flow, of a recent volcanic eruption in the middle of the plains, is among the great interests in Tsavo West. Near the lava flow, you’ll find the Shetani Caves, which were formed by volcanic activity. These caves are a popular spot for exploration and are home to bats and other wildlife. They have two large chinks and a lone mythical ancient tree rising mid-way the two eerie entry ways. Shetani Lava Flow has always been the subject of indigenous superstition thanks to lore of many foregoing generation of natives living here, who witnessed ‘as the lava came up from a black cone’ that they named Shetani, the Swahili equivalent for “devil”.
Despite the harsh environment, the lava flow and surrounding areas are home to unique plant species that have adapted to the rocky terrain. You may also spot wildlife such as dik-diks, birds, and reptiles. Walking across Shetani Lava Flow is a unique experience, but be sure to wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is very rough and uneven. The dramatic landscape is a photographer’s dream, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light creates stunning contrasts. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for exploring, as the midday heat can be intense. Be cautious when exploring the caves. This is the universal welcome to Tsavo via Chyulu Gate.
From stunning views of the Great Rift Valley to serene coastlines, Kenya is blessed with breathtaking viewpoints that offer travelers unforgettable panoramas. These destinations not only provide amazing photo backdrops but also inspire awe and appreciation for the natural world. Showcasing the diversity and beauty of our planet, these viewpoints are sure to leave an indelible mark on your journey.
Amazing Viewpoint Around Kenya
Busia County - Kakapel Rock, Embu County - Karue Hill, Riakanau Viewpoint, Elgeyo Marakwet County - Iten Viewpoint, Nyaru Viewpoint, Kolol Viewpoint, Homa Bay County - Lambwe Valley, Kisii County - Keroka Landscape, Kitui County - Ikoo Valley Viewpoint, Nzambani Rock, Kwale County - The Elephant Lookout, Laikipia County - Mukutan Ridge, Machakos County - Kanzalu Thui Stone, Makueni County - Makongo Viewpoint, Thwake Dam Viewpoint, Meru County - Kierra Ridge, Mwonyo Valley, Nakuru County - The Great Rift Valley Viewpoint, Elementaita Viewpoint, Menengai Viewpoint, Nandi County: Nandi Rock, Tabolwa Rock, Ketbarak Viewpoint, Nyamira County - The Emanga Ridge, Nyandarua County - Gitwe Viewpoint, Heni Viewpoint, Kinangop Plateau, Samburu County - Ngurunit Valley, El Barta Plains, Malaso (Losiolo) Viewpoint, Taita Taveta County - Vuria Hill, Lion's Bluff, Mudanda Rock, Shetani Lava, Mzima Springs, Chaimu Crater, Salaita Hill, Tharaka Nithi County - Kierra, Nithi Bridge Viewpoint, Trans Nzoia County - Endebess (Elephant) Viewpoint, West Pokot County - Kapkoris Hill Viewpoint, Kaisagat Viewpoint, The Marich Pass Centre, Turkwel Gorge
Situated in south-western Kenya, and part of the Coast Region of Kenya, Taita-Taveta County is known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The county features diverse landscapes, including the Taita Hills, which are part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, and the vast plains of Tsavo, which are part of Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks – Kenya’s largest wildlife preserve.
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Explore Destinations Nearby Shetani Lava Flow
Guide to Taita Taveta County
A Summa Digest of Taita Taveta
About Taita Taveta Way Back When
85 Destinations in Taita Taveta County, arranged as one would visit these - north, west then south - with aid of in-depth narratives, images, strip maps and distance chart:
Chyulu Hills National Park, Kisula Caves, Kampi ya Kanzi Lodge, Tsavo West National Park, Kamboyo Lodge, Mzima Springs, Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, Ancient Roaring Rocks, Ngulia Hills, Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, Kitchwa Tembo Hill, Chaimu Crater, The Five Sister's Hills, Shetani Lava, Finch Hattons Camp, Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Chala, Crystal Lake Chala Caves, Voyager Ziwani Tented Camp, Sniper Tree, Gicheha Ziwani Farm, The Njoro Springs, Grogan’s Castle, Mokine Hill, Lake Jipe, Lake Jipe Eco-lodge, Salaita Hill, The Taveta Military Cemetery, Maktau Indian Cemetery, Maktau Railway Station, Taita Hills Game Lodge, Taita Hills Museum, Sarova Salt Lick Lodge, Mwashoti Hill, Maili 27 Bridge, Mwakitau Hill, Lumo Game Sanctuary, Lions Bluff Lodge, Lualenyi Camp, Ndolwa Game Sanctuary, Dembwa Falls, Bura Mission Church, Vuria Hill, Taita Hills, Wesu Rock, Taita Rocks Hotel, Malowa's Shrine, Taita Skull Caves, Taita Research Station, Kilangarenyi Falls, Ngangao Forest, Kenyatta Caves, Mount Sagalla, Rev. Wray Memorial Museum, Ngutuni Wildlife Sanctuary, Volunteer International Camp Tsavo, Mount Kasigau, Kasigau Base Camp, The Maungu Plains, Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary, Wushumbu Conservancy, Teita Sisal Estate, Mbulia Conservancy, Tsavo East National Park, Ithumba Elephant Nursery, Yatta Plateau, Tsavo Springs, Emusaya Wilderness Arc, Galdessa Little Camp, Lugard's Falls, Mudanda Rock, Voi War Cemetery, Lion Hill Lodge, Kanderi Swamp, Voi Wildlife Lodge, Aruba Dam, A. Aruba Lodge, Nyiri Desert
Know More About Taita Taveta County: Geography, Land-Use, Highlights, Population, Roads - including distance chart, Airports, Climate & National Monuments
The mean temperature in Taita Taveta is 23 Degrees Celsius, cooler around the hills and hotter on the Nyika where the Tsavos sit. Rainfall distribution is uneven, with the highlands receiving higher rains than the lowland areas.
Taita Taveta County is divided into two major topographical zones: The upper zone high zones, and the lower zone consists of plains of Tsavos.