“Sable Antelopes Reign in Shimba Hills”
Shimba Hills National Reserve Tourism
Shimba Hills National Reserve, situated near the southeast coast with an area of about 192 square kilometers 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.
Situated approximately 33 kilometers from the bustling city of Mombasa, 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 birdlife is equally impressive, with over 230 recorded species, including the African hawk eagle, Fischer’s turaco, and the Sokoke pipit.
The reserve boasts a mix of coastal rainforest, savannah, woodland, and grassland ecosystems. The lush forest trails are ideal for guided walks, providing opportunities to see the rich plant life up close, including rare and endemic species such as the cycad and the African violet. One of the highlights of Shimba Hills is the Sheldrick Falls, a 25-meter waterfall surrounded by verdant vegetation.
Shimba Hills National Reserve also offers cultural experiences, as it is home to the local Digo community, one of the nine Mijikenda tribes. Visitors can learn about the Digo people’s traditional way of life, their customs, and their close relationship with the forest. The reserve’s proximity to Mombasa makes it an easy day trip, but there are also accommodation options within and near the reserve for those who wish to stay longer. Lodges and campsites provide comfortable stays with stunning views of the forest and the Indian Ocean in the distance.
Entrance Gates to Shimba Hills:
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.
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 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, enabling 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 various coastal and forest bird species, including eagles, hornbills, sunbirds, and endemic species found exclusively in the area.
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 afternoon. 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 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 their 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 animals 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 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.
- Shimba Hills 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 Shimba Hills 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.
Best Time To Visit Shimba Hills National Reserve
The best time to visit Shimba Hills National Reserve is during the dry season from June to September and December to March. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are best during these months.
Avoid visiting Shimba Hills National Reserve during the rainy season from April to May. Heavy rainfall can make roads impassable and reduce visibility, making wildlife sightings less likely.
- Expect lush greenery from the preceding rainy season.
- Wildlife sightings are abundant, including elephants and various antelope species.
- Birdwatching is excellent with migratory birds.
- Enjoy cooler temperatures for outdoor activities.
- Higher tourist numbers; book accommodations and activities in advance.
- Accommodation rates are higher due to increased demand.
- Transitional weather with occasional rain showers.
- Moderate temperatures for outdoor activities.
- Good wildlife sightings.
- Landscape starts drying but is still green.
- Fewer tourists mean quieter viewing.
- Some accommodations offer discounts.
- Lodging is comfortable with fewer crowds.
- Chance to see early bird migration by March.
- Heavy rain brings lush greenery and swollen rivers.
- Wildlife sightings may be limited due to thick vegetation.
- Good for birdwatching.
- Fewer tourists, quieter experience.
- Accommodations offer discounts.
- Roads may be muddy and slippery.
- Limited outdoor activities due to wet conditions.
- Chance of rain delays, be flexible.
- Some roads may be closed.