The Shimba Hills National Reserve is a small National Park in the Coast Province of Kenya. The reserve is an area of coastal rainforest, woodland and grassland. It is an important area for plant biodiversity – over 50% of the 159 rare plants in Kenya are found in the Shimba Hills, including some endangered species of cycad and orchids. It is also a nationally important site for birds and butterflies.

Getting to Shimba Hills Reserve
It is 33 kilometres from Mombasa town and only 15 kilometres from the coastline.

Attractions at Shimba Hills Reserve
North of the Reserve, the Mwaluganje elephant sanctuary has been established to provide a route for elephants to leave the park. The remainder of the park boundary is fenced to prevent the elephants from invading farmland.

Shimba Hills contains Kenya's only population of Sable Antelope. There are about 100 in the park.

Shimba Hills National Reserve is known for its forested landscape, sharp slopes and steep valleys. It is not ideal for animal safaris because the African wildlife is difficult to spot in the dense vegetation. The animals hide in the shade of the forest in order to keep cool until the early evening. However, you may see the rare sable antelope and many birds on your visit. Best views are from the eastern side of the park, near Giriama Point, as the animals move towards the rivers to drink.

One of the main attractions to the Shimba Hills is the impressive Sheldrick Falls, which cascade 25m (82 feet) over the escarpment. There is a scenic 2km (1 mile) footpath that takes up to an hour to walk each way. Take a hat, sunscreen and water to drink and keep a sharp lookout for elephants. A ranger will accompany hikers without charge from 10-3pm daily. Sheldrick Falls is an idyllic spot for a cool swim and a picnic.

The park has the last breeding herd of beautiful sable antelope in Kenya. They are among Kenya's largest antelope, with black coats and long, scimitar-shaped horns, which they were hunted for. They may be seen grazing early or late in the day around Buffalo Ridge.

There are many birds, including 111 different recorded species. There are even more birds to be seen during the spring migration. Bird shooting is only permitted outside the reserve.

Accomodation options at Shimba Hills
Shimba Hills Lodge

Best time to visit Shimba Hills
All year round.