Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Reserve is a pristine wildlife sanctuary located just 33 kilometers southwest of Kenya’s coastal city of Mombasa, offering a serene getaway from the bustling coastal areas. Covering an area of around 192 square kilometers, it is renowned for its lush coastal rainforest, expansive woodlands, and rolling grasslands. Established in 1968, the reserve was created to protect the region’s unique biodiversity, including rare plant species and endangered animals. Shimba Hills is a vital water catchment area, supplying water to the surrounding communities, and boasts spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes, including the distant Indian Ocean. The reserve also holds cultural significance, with local communities maintaining a connection to the land.

Scenery

The scenic beauty of Shimba Hills is a major draw for visitors. The reserve is characterized by its diverse terrain of deep valleys, steep hills, and open grasslands. One of the most stunning features is the Sheldrick Falls, a picturesque 21-meter waterfall that cascades into a lush, forested gorge. The reserve also offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean from various lookout points, which adds to its allure. The combination of coastal rainforest and grassland makes Shimba Hills a unique ecosystem, providing a perfect environment for nature lovers to explore.

Wildlife in Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills is home to a wide variety of wildlife, most notably the rare and endangered sable antelope, which is found in few places across Kenya. This elegant species is one of the main attractions of the reserve. Additionally, you can spot elephants in large numbers, moving between the forest and the savannah in search of food and water. Other wildlife includes buffaloes, giraffes, leopards, warthogs, bushbucks, and various species of monkeys such as the Sykes’ monkey and colobus monkey. While predators like lions are rare, leopards and genets can occasionally be seen in the more wooded areas.

Birds

Shimba Hills National Reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 230 bird species recorded. The diverse habitats of forest, grassland, and riverine ecosystems support a range of resident and migratory birds. Some of the notable species include the African hawk-eagle, Fischer’s turaco, Red-necked spurfowl, Crested guineafowl, and the Eastern nicator. The forested areas are also home to species such as the African green pigeon, Narina trogon, and the African crowned eagle. Migratory birds from Europe and Asia can be observed during certain times of the year, particularly between November and April, adding to the variety of birdlife.

Weather and Climate

Shimba Hills enjoys a tropical climate due to its proximity to the Indian Ocean, with temperatures ranging between 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). The climate is generally cooler than the surrounding coastal areas, thanks to its higher altitude. The reserve experiences two rainy seasons: the long rains from April to June and the short rains from October to December. During the wet seasons, the reserve becomes lush and green, providing plenty of food for wildlife. The dry season (July to September and January to March) is also a good time to visit, as animals congregate around water sources, making wildlife viewing easier.

Getting To Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills is easily accessible from Mombasa, making it a convenient destination for both local and international tourists. By road, it takes about an hour to reach the reserve from Mombasa by car, and taxis or tour vans can be arranged. The reserve is connected by a good network of tarmac roads leading up to the park’s main entrance. Alternatively, visitors coming from Nairobi can fly into Moi International Airport in Mombasa and then drive to Shimba Hills. Public transport options are available, but private tours or self-drive options are more common.

Activities to Engage In Shimba Hills National Reserve

Visitors to Shimba Hills can participate in a range of activities, with wildlife viewing and nature walks being the most popular. Game drives offer a chance to see the iconic sable antelope and elephants in their natural habitat. Guided forest walks to Sheldrick Falls provide a peaceful escape into nature, with the added bonus of a cool dip in the river at the base of the waterfall. Bird watching is another popular activity, with the reserve’s diverse avifauna making it a great destination for bird enthusiasts. The park also offers picnicking spots and nature trails where visitors can enjoy the tranquil surroundings while observing wildlife.

Safety and Vaccination

Shimba Hills is considered a safe destination for visitors. However, like any wildlife area, it is essential to follow the guidance of park authorities and tour guides. As the reserve is located in a malaria-prone region, anti-malarial medication is recommended, especially if visiting during the rainy season. Other vaccinations may be advised depending on your travel history and health status, including yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. It’s always best to consult with your doctor before traveling.