Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Reserve is a captivating and unique wildlife haven located in Kenya’s coastal region, offering a refreshing escape from the heat and a chance to explore a different kind of African landscape.

A Coastal Rainforest Retreat:

• Lush and Green: Unlike the vast savannahs that often come to mind when thinking of Kenyan safaris, Shimba Hills is characterized by its lush coastal rainforest. This creates a cool and refreshing environment, with diverse flora and fauna.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: Shimba Hills is an important area for plant biodiversity, with over 50% of Kenya’s rare plants found here. You’ll find a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers, including some endangered species of cycads and orchids.
• Scenic Views: The reserve offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the coastline and the Indian Ocean.

Wildlife Encounters:

• Unique Species: Shimba Hills is home to some unique and endangered animals, most notably the sable antelope, which is found nowhere else in Kenya.
• Elephant Paradise: The reserve has a high density of elephants, and you’re likely to encounter these gentle giants during your visit.
• Other Wildlife: You can also find giraffes, buffaloes, leopards, and various smaller mammals like monkeys and baboons.
• Birdwatcher’s Delight: Shimba Hills is a great place for birdwatching, with over 100 species recorded, including some coastal endemics.

Things to Do:

• Game Drives: Explore the reserve’s diverse landscapes on game drives, searching for its unique wildlife.
• Guided Walks: Take a guided walk through the forest to learn about the plants and animals, and to visit the scenic Sheldrick Falls.
• Bird Watching: Bring your binoculars and tick off some of the park’s many bird species.
• Relax and Enjoy: Shimba Hills offers a peaceful and tranquil environment where you can simply relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Why Shimba Hills is Special:

• Coastal Rainforest: The unique habitat of a coastal rainforest sets Shimba Hills apart from other Kenyan parks.
• Sable Antelope: The chance to see these rare and beautiful antelopes is a major draw.
• Accessibility: Shimba Hills is easily accessible from Mombasa and Diani Beach, making it a great addition to a beach holiday.
• Cooler Climate: The higher altitude and forest cover provide a welcome escape from the heat of the coast.

Visiting Shimba Hills:

• Location: Shimba Hills is located about 33km from Mombasa and 15km from the coast.
• Getting There: You can reach Shimba Hills by road from Mombasa or Diani Beach.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to October) is generally the best time for wildlife viewing, but the reserve can be visited year-round.

If you’re looking for a safari experience that combines lush rainforest, unique wildlife, and stunning coastal views, Shimba Hills National Reserve is definitely worth considering. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, see some truly special animals, and enjoy the tranquility of a coastal wilderness.