Shimba Hills National Park
Kenya
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Where Rainforest Meets the Ocean
Shimba Hills National Reserve is one of the largest coastal forests in East Africa and a stunning contrast to the traditional Kenyan savannah. Located just 33km south of Mombasa, this lush sanctuary is a mosaic of ancient rainforest, woodland, and rolling grasslands. It is famously the only place in Kenya where you can spot the regal Sable Antelope, known for its scimitar-shaped horns and striking black coat.
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What to expect
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The Rare Sable Antelope: A high-priority sighting for wildlife enthusiasts, these majestic animals thrive in the park’s grassland clearings.
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Elephant Sanctuary: Home to a significant population of African elephants, often seen emerging from the thick forest canopy to drink at waterholes.
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Biodiversity Hotspot: A paradise for botanists and birders, featuring over 50% of Kenya’s rare plant species and a variety of forest-dwelling birds and butterflies.
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The Landscape: Dramatic ridges offer panoramic views that, on clear days, stretch all the way to the Indian Ocean and the peaks of the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania.
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Seasonal Overview
Shimba Hills enjoys a tropical coastal climate, making it a refreshing escape from the heat of the beaches at any time of year:
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The Mist & Bloom Season: Following the rains, the forest is at its most vibrant. The hills are often draped in a mystical morning mist, and the rare orchids and lilies of the park burst into bloom. This is the ultimate season for photographers seeking “moody” forest shots and lush green landscapes.
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The Clear Horizon Season: As the skies clear, the reserve offers its best panoramic views of the coastline. This season is ideal for hiking to the waterfalls and spotting predators like leopards, who are more likely to move through the thinning undergrowth.
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The Birding & Butterfly Season: During the transitional months, the reserve becomes a flurry of color. Migratory birds arrive from the north, and the park’s famous butterflies are most active, creating a magical atmosphere within the forest canopy.
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Shimba Hills Lodge
Shimba Hills Lodge
An award-winning “tree lodge” built entirely of wood. It overlooks a floodlit waterhole where you can watch elephants and elusive leopards from the comfort of the bar or your private balcony. It is the only lodge of its kind at the coast.
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Adventure in the Coastal Wilds Shimba Hills is a destination for those who love to explore on foot as much as by vehicle.
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Hike to Sheldrick Falls: Embark on a guided 2-hour walk through the forest to the spectacular 21-meter high Sheldrick Falls. You can cool off with a refreshing dip in the natural plunge pool at the bottom.
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Sable Antelope Tracking: Join our expert guides in a specialized search for the “star of the park.” We know the specific clearings where these rare antelopes prefer to graze during the golden hours.
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Elephant Hill Observation: Drive to the park’s highest point for a sundowner or a picnic. From here, you can look down over the forest canopy and often see elephant herds moving through the valleys below.
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Guided Nature Walks: Explore the botanical wonders of the forest. Learn about the rare “Cycads” (ancient plants) and the medicinal uses of the various trees found within this unique ecosystem.
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Birdwatching & Butterfly Identification: With over 111 bird species and hundreds of butterfly varieties, a morning walk with our specialist guides is a must for nature lovers.
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Sundowners at Mwalughanje: Enjoy a drink at the scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mwalughanje Elephant Sanctuary, watching the sun set over the distant mountains.
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