Shimba Hills National Reserve is located about 33 km south of Mombasa in Kwale County, just beyond Kwale town. This coastal ecosystem is one of the largest coastal forests in East Africa after the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest and is a unique blend of forestlands, grasslands, scrublands, and exotic plantations.
The reserve is famous as the only place in Kenya where you can see the rare sable antelope. It also holds the highest density of African elephants on the Kenyan coast. Rich in biodiversity, Shimba Hills was first gazetted as a National Forest in 1903, with subsequent expansions leading to its current size. In 1968, most of it was officially designated as the Shimba Hills National Reserve.
Two adjoining forested areas, Mkongani North and Mkongani West Forest Reserves, remain protected. A specially constructed elephant corridor links the reserve to the Mwaluganje Forest Reserve, helping elephants migrate safely.
Major Attractions in Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Scenic rolling hills, valleys, and viewpoints stretch beyond the reserve.
- Coastal rainforest rich in biodiversity.
- Sheldrick’s Falls – a beautiful waterfall in the forest.
- The endangered Sable Antelope.
- High elephant population.
- Mwaluganje Forest and Elephant Sanctuary.
- Panoramic viewpoints offering stunning coastal scenery.
Wildlife in Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills is home to an impressive range of species, including:
- Mammals: Elephants, Sable Antelope, Buffalo, Maasai Giraffe, Leopard, Hyena, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Warthog, Bush Pig, Serval, Baboon, Sykes’ Monkey, Black-faced Vervet Monkey, Angola Colobus Monkey, Red Duiker, Blue Duiker, Bush Duiker, Greater Galago, and rare shrews like the Black-and-Red Shrew.
- Birds: Over 100 species, including 22 coastal endemics. Key sightings include Ostrich, Crowned Hornbill, African Hawk Eagle, Guinea Fowl, Falcons, Sunbirds, and the Uluguru.
- Reptiles: Python, Cobra, Lizards, and Geckos.
Things to Do in Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Game drives to spot elephants and antelopes.
- Guided walking safaris through the forests and grasslands.
- Birdwatching, with over 100 species recorded.
- Camping in designated areas.
- Visits to Sheldrick’s Falls for scenic hikes and photography.
How to Get to Shimba Hills National Reserve
- By Road: From Mombasa, cross the Likoni Ferry and follow the A14 south. From there, turn inland towards Kwale town (C106) and proceed 3 km to the reserve entrance.
- By Air: The reserve has a 1.5 km airstrip. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Ukunda Airstrip (Diani Beach) or Moi International Airport (Mombasa).
Other Park Details
- Size: 300 sq. km
- Climate: Hot and humid, but cooler than the coast. Expect morning mists, sea breezes, and annual rainfall between 855–1,682 mm. The average temperature is 24.2°C.
- Accommodation: Campsites and in-reserve lodges available. Beach resorts at nearby Diani Beach also offer easy access.
- Park Fees: Visit the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) website or consult your tour operator for current rates.
