Shimba Hills is a tropical rainforest that covers an area of 202 km2. Physical attractions include Casuarinas forests, Marere dam (a water hole where come to drink water), and Sheldrick Waterfalls. The landscape is grassland. Animals seen in this area include buffalos, giraffes, impalas, heartbeasts, rare leopards, black and white monkeys, attractive sable antelopes, and roan antelopes among others. Shimba Hills has different species of birds like (tropical guinea fowls, fish eagles, falcons, weaver birds, and ground horny bills among others.

Escape the bustling city of Mombasa and embark on a thrilling 1-Day Shimba Hills Safari, where you can experience the lush beauty of Kenya’s coastal wilderness. Located just 33 kilometers south of Mombasa, Shimba Hills National Reserve offers a quick, yet immersive adventure with breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique experiences.

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Top Attractions in Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Reserve is a coastal gem offering a mix of lush forests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views. Here are some of the top attractions to explore during your visit:

1. Sheldrick Falls

• Overview:
  Sheldrick Falls is one of the main attractions of Shimba Hills. The stunning 27-meter waterfall is located in a secluded part of the reserve, and it’s a perfect spot for a peaceful break. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, making it an ideal location for photography and relaxation.
• Activities:
  • Hike to the falls (a short, guided walk).
  • Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings.

2. Sable Antelope

• Overview:
  Shimba Hills is one of the few places in the world where you can spot the endangered sable antelope. This elusive and strikingly beautiful animal has a distinctive black coat and is known for its curved horns. It is a rare sight, making any encounter with it a special moment.
• Activities:
  • Game drives to spot the rare sable antelope.
  • Enjoy the thrill of seeing one of Africa’s most unique creatures in its natural habitat.

3. The Shimba Hills Forest

• Overview:
  The dense coastal rainforest of Shimba Hills offers a cool and serene environment, perfect for a refreshing change from the typical savannah landscapes of other safari destinations. The forest is rich in biodiversity, and a stroll through it will introduce you to a variety of plant and animal species.
• Activities:
  • Walks or hikes through the forest (guided tours available).
  • Birdwatching, as the area is home to numerous bird species, including the rare East African green pigeon and the white-cheeked turaco.

4. Scenic Viewpoints

• Overview:
  Shimba Hills offers several scenic viewpoints with panoramic views of the coastal plains, rolling hills, and the Indian Ocean in the distance. These spots provide a perfect opportunity to take in the stunning landscape and enjoy a moment of tranquility.
• Activities:
  • Stop at the viewpoints for stunning photo opportunities.
  • Relax and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

5. Wildlife and Game Drives

• Overview:
  Shimba Hills is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, and a variety of antelope species. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems allow for the viewing of wildlife in different habitats, from forests to grasslands.
• Activities:
  • Morning and afternoon game drives to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and other wildlife.
  • Night safaris are also available at times for a chance to see nocturnal species.

6. Birdwatching

• Overview:
  The reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 100 species of birds found here. From vibrant forest species to savannah dwellers, Shimba Hills offers a rich array of avian life. Rare species like the East African green pigeon and white-cheeked turaco are among the highlights.
• Activities:
  • Guided birdwatching tours to spot both common and rare species.
  • Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the diversity of birds in the area.

7. Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary (Adjacent to Shimba Hills)

Learn about the conservation efforts in the region.

Overview:
Located just outside Shimba Hills, the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of elephants and other wildlife. It offers a chance to view elephants up close, especially in their natural habitat. The sanctuary’s mission is to protect elephants and mitigate human-wildlife conflict in the region.

Activities:

Visit the sanctuary for guided tours and elephant sightings.