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Green Wilderness of Kenya's South Coast

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Discover rolling hills, coastal forest, elephants, rare sable antelopes and Sheldrick Falls with Kenya Holiday Safaris by WT Safaris Limited.

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Rare Sable Antelope

One of Kenya's most important strongholds for the rare sable antelope.

Sheldrick Falls

A scenic forest waterfall reached by a rewarding guided nature walk.

Elephant Country

A green coastal reserve known for elephants, buffaloes and diverse birdlife.

Camps & Lodges

Luxury lodges, tented camps and wilderness campsites.

About Shimba Hills National Reserve

Green hills, coastal forest and rare wildlife

Shimba Hills National Reserve is one of Kenya's most scenic and rewarding wilderness areas, characterised by open plains, wooded grasslands, riverine forests, doum palms and numerous permanent rivers.

The reserve is famous for elephants and Kenya's rare sable antelope. Visitors may also see buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, monkeys, antelopes and abundant birdlife, while Sheldrick Falls adds a memorable walking experience.

Travel with Kenya Holiday Safaris for private day trips and overnight safaris from Diani Beach, Mombasa and nearby coastal resorts.

Wildlife in Shimba Hills National Reserve
Recommended Accommodation

Shimba Hills Lodges & Safari Camps

Shimba Hills Lodge
Forest Safari Lodge

Shimba Hills Lodge

A distinctive tree lodge overlooking a forest waterhole, offering close-to-nature accommodation and easy access to game drives in the reserve.

Kutazama Lodge
Luxury Boutique Lodge

Kutazama Lodge

An intimate hilltop lodge with panoramic views, stylish suites, personalised hospitality and a peaceful setting near the Shimba Hills ecosystem.

Elephant Hill Lodge
Mid-range Safari Lodge

Elephant Hill Lodge

A comfortable lodge offering relaxed accommodation, scenic surroundings and convenient access to Shimba Hills and nearby coastal attractions.

Sable Valley Lodge
Wilderness Lodge

Sable Valley Lodge

A tranquil safari retreat inspired by the reserve's rare sable antelope, ideal for guests seeking privacy, nature and authentic coastal wilderness.

KWS Campsites in Shimba Hills
Budget Camping

KWS Campsites

Kenya Wildlife Service campsites provide a simple and authentic camping experience for adventurous travellers and small safari groups.

WT Safaris Shimba Hills Packages

Day trips and overnight safaris to Shimba Hills

Choose a private safari from Diani Beach or combine Shimba Hills with Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary, Wasini Island, Tsavo East or other coastal attractions.

All Jeep Safaris Coastal Day Trips
1 Day Shimba Hills Safari
Private Day Safari

1 Day Shimba Hills Safari

A full-day safari from Diani or Mombasa with game drives, scenic viewpoints and an optional guided walk to Sheldrick Falls.

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2 Days Shimba Hills Safari
Private Jeep Safari • 2 Days / 1 Night

2 Days Shimba Hills Safari

An overnight safari with relaxed game drives, lodge accommodation and more time to explore the reserve's landscapes and wildlife.

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3 Days Shimba Hills and Wasini Island Safari
Bush & Marine Experience • 3 Days / 2 Nights

3 Days Shimba Hills & Wasini Island

Combine a green coastal safari with a Wasini Island dhow cruise, dolphin searching, snorkelling and Swahili coastal experiences.

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4 Days Tsavo East and Shimba Hills Safari
Coast Safari Circuit • 4 Days / 3 Nights

4 Days Tsavo East & Shimba Hills

Experience Tsavo East's red elephants and open plains before finishing among Shimba Hills' forests, viewpoints and rare sable antelopes.

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Best Time to Visit

Shimba Hills travel seasons

January to March: Warm conditions, good visibility and convenient day trips from the coast.

April to May: The main rainy season brings lush scenery and flowing waterfalls, though trails may be slippery.

June to October: Cooler and generally drier conditions with excellent game drives and comfortable walking weather.

November to December: Green landscapes, rich birdlife and rewarding wildlife viewing between short showers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shimba Hills safari information

Where is Shimba Hills National Reserve?

Shimba Hills National Reserve is located in Kwale County on Kenya's south coast, a short drive from Diani Beach and within reach of Mombasa.

How many days are recommended?

A full-day trip is suitable for the main highlights, while one or two nights allow a slower safari with additional game drives and nature walks.

What wildlife can I see?

Wildlife may include elephants, sable antelopes, buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, monkeys, antelopes and many bird species.

Can I visit Shimba Hills from Diani Beach?

Yes. Shimba Hills is one of the most convenient safari destinations from Diani Beach, making it ideal for day trips and short overnight safaris.

Plan Your Safari

Book your Meru safari with WT Safaris

Contact our Diani Beach safari team for a tailor-made quotation, lodge recommendations, flights and combined Meru safari options.

Request a Safari Quote