Mzima Springs, located in the arid and dusty Tsavo West National Park, Kenya, comprises four natural springs. It is fed by rainwater precipitation on the Chyulu Hills, a mountain range in southeastern Kenya. The highly porous volcanic terrain of the Chyulu prevents the formation of rivers. Instead, the rain water percolates through the porous volcanic rocks into an underground reservoir. After a journey of approximately 25 years, the water resurfaces at Mzima Springs. As the water seeps through the rocks, it gets naturally cleansed, resulting in crystal-clear pools.
About two kilometres downstream from the springs, the stream encounters an obstruction in the form of solidified lava flow, causing the water to vanish beneath the surface once again. It resurfaces again to later join the Tsavo River, which in turn joins the Galana River.
The name Mzima translates to "alive" in Swahili, an African language. A staggering 227,000 cubic meters of water surge from these springs every day. The springs gained widespread recognition thanks to the renowned nature documentary Mzima: Portrait of a Spring, produced by Alan and Joan Root in 1969.
A vibrant ecosystem thrives along the banks of these springs. Papyrus plants and a variety of palm trees contribute to the lush greenery of this unique oasis in the dry savanna. As one ventures into the surrounding forest, the melody of birdcalls and the croaking of frogs fill the air. A sighting of the rare blue monkey leaves one in awe.
An underwater viewing chamber in the pool allows visitors to peer into the living world beneath the water surface. Through tiny square windows in the chamber, one can observe blue-grey barbel fish (a species of freshwater carp), the occasional crocodile, hippopotamus, eels, and mud-suckers.
The water from the Mzima Springs, emerging from the Chyulu aquifer, is directed to Mombasa, a coastal city in Kenya, through a pipeline, at an impressive rate of approximately 4 million gallons per day. This project, completed in 1966, serves as a vital conduit, supplying the pristine spring water not only to Mombasa but to several other cities as well.
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