Shimba Hills National Reserve is located in Kwale County, Kenya, about 33 km south of Mombasa and close to the coastal town of Diani Beach. It’s one of Kenya’s lesser-known but most scenic parks, offering a blend of coastal rainforest, woodland, and grassland ecosystems.
General Description
Shimba Hills is a protected area of about 300 km², known for its lush vegetation, cool climate, and spectacular views over the Indian Ocean and surrounding plains. The reserve forms part of the larger Shimba Hills ecosystem, which also includes the adjacent Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary.
It is regarded as one of the last remaining strongholds of coastal rainforest in East Africa — second only to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest in size and biodiversity.
Wildlife
Shimba Hills hosts a rich variety of wildlife, including:
Elephants (large population, managed partly through Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary)
Sable antelope – the only place in Kenya where this rare and elegant species is found
Buffalo, giraffe, bushbuck, leopard (occasionally sighted), waterbuck, baboons, and monkeys
Birdlife: Over 200 recorded species, including the green tinkerbird, crowned hornbill, and Ostrich eagle.
The reserve is also home to numerous butterflies, orchids, and unique plant species, making it a paradise for naturalists and photographers.
Key Attractions
Sheldrick Falls – a beautiful 25-meter waterfall accessible via a guided walking trail through the forest.
Elephant Hill Viewpoint – panoramic views of rolling hills, forest canopy, and distant ocean.
Giriama Point – another popular viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape.
Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary – offers opportunities for close encounters with elephants in a community-managed conservancy.
Activities
Game drives (daytime only; the park closes at dusk)
Nature walks and hiking (especially to Sheldrick Falls)
Bird watching
Picnicking at designated sites
Scenic photography and viewpoint visits
Accommodation
Options range from inside the reserve to nearby coastal lodges:
Shimba Hills Lodge – the only tree lodge within the reserve, overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife.
Lodges and resorts in Diani Beach and Kwale provide comfortable alternatives nearby.
Access
About 1 hour’s drive from Mombasa or 45 minutes from Diani Beach.
4WD vehicles are recommended, especially during the rainy season.
Climate
Hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 24–30°C.
Rainy seasons: April–June (long rains) and October–December (short rains).
Cooler and greener than the nearby coast, thanks to higher altitude (150–450 m above sea level).
Conservation Significance
Shimba Hills plays a crucial role in:
Protecting coastal forest biodiversity.
Providing a habitat for the endangered sable antelope.
Supporting community-based conservation through partnerships like the Mwaluganje Sanctuary.