"Sable Antelopes Reign in Shimba Hills"
Shimba Hills National Reserve Tourism
Shimba Hills National Reserve, situated near the southeast coast, is one of East Africa's largest coastal forests, next to the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest. It's home to over 700 elephants, particularly thriving in the Mwalunganje Elephant Sanctuary. The reserve also protects the endangered Sable Antelope, the only population of its kind in Kenya.
Covering around 300 square kilometres, Shimba Hills National Reserve is famous for its abundance of elephants and diverse wildlife. While it doesn't host lions or rhinos, it's home to various fascinating creatures like bush babies, colobus monkeys, and serval cats. The reserve boasts a mix of coastal rainforest, woodland, and grassland, and is renowned for Sheldrick Falls.
Entry Fees:
Citizen: Adult - KSH 300, Child (3 to 18 yrs) - KSH 125
Resident: Adult - KSH 300, Child - KSH 125
Non-Resident: Adult - USD 22, Child - USD 13
Entrance Gates:
Shimba Hills National Reserve has two main entrance gates: Shimba Gate and Kwale Gate.
- Shimba Gate: It is closest to the town of Kwale, approximately 3 kilometres away. The Shimba Gate is the primary entrance for visitors approaching from Kwale Town.
- Kwale Gate: It is located near the C106 road, about 1 kilometre away. The Kwale Gate is convenient for visitors arriving from the main A14 coast road.
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Things to do in Shimba Hills National Reserve
1. Game Drive Safari
Game drives allow guests to embark on guided tours through Shimba Hills National Reserve to observe the park's diverse wildlife. These excursions typically last between 2 to 3 hours and are scheduled (Read More)during the early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active. During these drives, visitors can expect to encounter remarkable species such as elephants, giraffes, antelopes, monkeys, and a wide array of bird species.
2. Walking Safaris
Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, participants can explore the reserve's forests and grasslands on foot. These safaris usually span 2 to 3 hours and offer a closer look at the park's ecosystem, ena (Read More)bling guests to appreciate the intricate details of the flora and potentially encounter smaller wildlife species along the way.
3. Bird Watching Safari
Guided bird-watching safaris are organized, led by experts who are well-versed in the reserve's avian inhabitants. These safaris typically last 2 to 3 hours and provide ample opportunities to spot var (Read More)ious coastal and forest bird species, including eagles, hornbills, sunbirds, and endemic species found exclusively in the area.
4. Sheldrick Falls
Sheldrick Falls is a picturesque waterfall within the reserve. It is best visited during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is ideal for photography. The falls can be reached by tre (Read More)kking along designated trails.
5. Mwaluganje Forest
Mwaluganje Forest, located within the reserve, is a dense forest known for its biodiversity. It is advisable to explore this area during the cooler hours of the day, either in the morning or late afte (Read More)rnoon. Guided walks or hikes through the forest provide opportunities to spot various bird species, small mammals, and unique plant life.
6. Sable Valley
Sable Valley, located within the reserve, is a scenic area known for its dense vegetation and diverse wildlife. Exploring this valley offers opportunities to spot the elusive Sable Antelope, known for (Read More) its striking appearance and endangered status. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when animal activity is high.
7. Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary
The Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary, known for its large elephant population, is an area within the reserve dedicated to the conservation of these majestic creatures. Visitors can observe elephants in t (Read More)heir natural habitat, and the best time for elephant sightings is typically during the early morning or late afternoon hours.
8. Marere Dam
Marere Dam is a watering hole located within the reserve, attracting a variety of wildlife, particularly during the dry season. The best time to visit is in the late morning or early afternoon when an (Read More)imals gather for a drink. Observation points and hides near the dam offer excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and viewing.
9. Shimba Village Visit
Shimba Village offers opportunities to engage with the local Digo community, known for its rich culture and traditions. Visitors can experience traditional dances, witness artisanal crafts, and learn (Read More)about the Digo way of life. It is advisable to coordinate with local tour operators or guides who can arrange cultural tours and provide insights into the community's customs and heritage.
Must Know Before You Travel to Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Park Timings: Both gates are open throughout the year, typically from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
- What to Expect: Shimba Hills National Reserve is not a Big Five Reserve. However, it is one of the largest coastal forests in Kenya and the only place in the country where sable antelope can be found.
- Accommodation: There is only one lodge inside the park, called the Shimba Hills Lodge. So, it is recommended to plan your travel and book in advance, if you wish to stay inside. However, there are several other options outside the park, especially on the Mombasa coastline.
- Day Trips from Mombasa or Diani: If you're staying in Mombasa or Diani, you can easily visit the National Park for a day trip.
- Guided Walks with Armed Rangers: Only two scheduled sessions are available for guided walks with armed rangers. The first group departs at 10:00 AM, and the last group departs at 2:00 PM. Plan your time wisely to ensure you arrive neither too early nor too late for the guided walks.
- Pre-Booking: Pre-booking is advised for safaris and activities in the park as well as accommodations, particularly during the peak season of July to October.
- Health Precautions: The highest risk of malaria occurs during the peak of the rainy seasons, typically in April to May and October to November. Hence, it is mandatory to consult a doctor for anti-malaria treatment and check if you have received all required vaccines before your trip.
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Wildlife in the Shimba Hills National Reserve
One of its remarkable features is the habitat it provides for approximately 700 elephants in the Mwalunganje Elephant Sanctuary. The reserve is home to Kenya's only population of the endangered Sable Antelope.
In addition to elephants and Sable Antelope, Shimba Hills National Reserve hosts a wide array of wildlife species. Visitors have the opportunity to spot giraffes gracefully browsing the treetops, leopards stealthily patrolling their territories, and smaller mammals like genets, civet cats, hyenas, waterbucks, bush pigs, and buffalos thriving in their natural habitats. The park is also home to primates such as African Bush Babies, Black-faced Vervet Monkeys, Sykes Monkeys, and fascinating nocturnal creatures like the Greater Galago. Other notable inhabitants include serval cats, various duiker species (Blue, Bush, and Red), as well as the elusive and tiny Knob-bristled Suni Shrew.
Furthermore, Shimba Hills National Reserve boasts a rich avian population with over 111 recorded bird species, including 22 coastal endemics. Among the remarkable birdlife, visitors can encounter the powerful Ostrich Eagle, African Hawk, Falcons, Cuckoos, Guinea-fowl, Kenya Crested Honeyguide, Crowned Hornbill, Blue Quail, and vibrant Sunbirds like the Uluguru Sunbird.
In addition to elephants and Sable Antelope, Shimba Hills National Reserve hosts a wide array of wildlife species. Visitors have the opportunity to spot giraffes gracefully browsing the treetops, leopards stealthily patrolling their territories, and smaller mammals like genets, civet cats, hyenas, waterbucks, bush pigs, and buffalos thriving in their natural habitats. The park is also home to primates such as African Bush Babies, Black-faced Vervet Monkeys, Sykes Monkeys, and fascinating nocturnal creatures like the Greater Galago. Other notable inhabitants include serval cats, various duiker species (Blue, Bush, and Red), as well as the elusive and tiny Knob-bristled Suni Shrew.
Furthermore, Shimba Hills National Reserve boasts a rich avian population with over 111 recorded bird species, including 22 coastal endemics. Among the remarkable birdlife, visitors can encounter the powerful Ostrich Eagle, African Hawk, Falcons, Cuckoos, Guinea-fowl, Kenya Crested Honeyguide, Crowned Hornbill, Blue Quail, and vibrant Sunbirds like the Uluguru Sunbird.
One-Day Itinerary for Shimba Hills
- Depart early from Mombasa after breakfast.
- Arrive at Shimba Hills Reserve.
- Begin a game drive to spot wildlife.
- Enjoy a packed lunch.
- Visit Sheldrick Falls and swim.
- Continue the game drive.
- Head back to the reserve gate.
- Return to Mombasa.
Travel Tips for Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Guide Required: Hiring a professional guide is highly recommended to enhance your wildlife viewing experience and ensure your safety. The guides are affordable and can be found at the main gate.
- Elephant Viewing: Though there is a high population of elephants, they tend to disappear into the forest quickly. One of the lookout points, called Elephant Hill, offers a great eagle-eye view.
- Best Viewing Times: Go early morning or late afternoon for wildlife sightings near waterholes.
- Essential Supplies: Carry plenty of water, hiking shoes, trekking sticks (for slippery paths), swimwear, and sunscreen.
- Cultural Experience: Ask your guide about visiting a Digo village for an enriching cultural experience.
Best Time to Visit Shimba Hills National Reserve
How to Reach Shimba Hills National Reserve
How to Reach Overview
If travelling from Nairobi, flying to Moi Airport in Mombasa would be the best way to reach the park. From Mombasa, located approximately 52 kilometres away, visitors can reach the park by taking a scenic drive that typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. From Diani Beach, which is approximately 47 kilometres away, the journey to the reserve takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by road. It is recommended to hire a private vehicle or take a taxi for a comfortable and convenient journey to Shimba Hills National Reserve.
How to reach Shimba Hills National Reserve by flight
The nearest airport to Shimba Hills National Reserve is Moi International Airport in Mombasa. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to the reserve, which is approximately 40 kilometres away. The journey by road takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
If flying from Nairobi, there are many flights scheduled from Wilson Airport to Mombasa on SafariLink and Mombasa Air Safari. It would take approximately 1 hour and a round trip would cost around $100 per person.
If flying from Nairobi, there are many flights scheduled from Wilson Airport to Mombasa on SafariLink and Mombasa Air Safari. It would take approximately 1 hour and a round trip would cost around $100 per person.
How to reach Shimba Hills National Reserve by road
From Mombasa, the reserve is accessible by road. The distance between Mombasa and Shimba Hills National Reserve is approximately 52 kilometres. The journey by car or taxi typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. You can take the Likoni ferry to access the southern coastline, where Diani and Tiwi beaches are located. From there, follow the main A14 coast road for about 10 kilometres heading south until you reach the main crossroad. Take the road that ascends to Kwale Town (C106). The main gate of the reserve is situated approximately 1 kilometre from the C106 road and around 3 kilometres from Kwale.
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