Overview
Shimba Hills National Reserve is rich in flora and fauna. African elephants are abundant in this destination. It is home to the endangered sable antelopes. The reserve is also home to many other wildlife species. The Sheldrick Falls and Mwaliganje Forest give it a scenic view. This is why you should add Shimba Hills National Reserve to your itinerary.
Wildlife
Shimba Hills National Reserve is home to a variety of wild animals. It is a great elephant habitat. This protected area has over 500 elephants. These big animals easily disappear into the forest in the reserve. As a result, it may be harder to spot them. Luckily, the reserve has several lookout points. Elephant Hill is a great point to see elephants.
The reserve is home to endangered Sable antelope. This breed of antelope is large, colored, and with shaped horns. It is easy to spot them in the reserve. You can spot other mammals such as zebras, hippos, hyenas, leopards, and buffalos. The reserve is home to several species of primates. You can spot vervet monkeys, yellow baboons, Angolan colobus monkeys, and Sykes monkeys. You can also spot bushbabies, especially at Shimba Hills Lodge. The reserve is also home to reptiles such as geckos, cobras, lizards, and pythons.
You can enjoy the sightings of these animals at any time across the year. But roads may be impassable during the rainy season. The dry months may be the best for hiking and game drives.
Birdlife
Shimba Hills National Reserve is a perfect place for birdies. It has over 111 species. 22 of these species are widespread in the coastal region. Some of these are Ostrich eagle, Guinea-fowl, Hornbill, Sunbird, African Hawk, and Kenya crested among others. You can watch these birds at any time across the year. November to April is a good time to see migratory birds.
Scenery
Shimba Hills National Reserve has beautiful scenery. Sheldrick waterfalls give it a lovely view. It falls at 12 meters. The falls are wrapped in greenery and vines. It also has a lovely plunge pool it creates as it flows. This is a great spot to cool off. Travelers love trekking to the falls. Various viewpoints in the reserve offer lovely views. Marere dam offers a clear view of animals and birds. Mwaluganje Forest also gives the reserve a beautiful view. Its Baobab trees, scenic landscape, and over 1000 species of plants give the reserve a beautiful view.
Climate
The reserve is usually hot and moist. But it is cooler than most of the coastal parts. It reports strong sea breezes. Early mornings are mostly misty and cloudy. Afternoon temperatures are around 29°C. Nights are cooler (20°C). The reserve receives rainfall across the year. June to September and December to March receive less rainfall. This is where the dry season may fall. It is difficult to predict. October to November and April to May receive more rain.
FAQs About Shimba Hills National Reserve
- Where is Shimba Hills National Reserve located?
Shimba Hills National Reserve is located in Kwale County in Kenya. This is along the coastline or in the former coast province. It is about 33km from Mombasa. Its GPS coordinates are 4.2572° S and 39.3856° E. You can land from America or Europe to Kenya via Mombasa. You will land at Moi International Airport. Then, you will enjoy a safari drive to the reserve. If you land in Nairobi, you can take a flight to the coast. Then, your tour operator will drive you to the reserve.
- Why should I visit Shimba Hills National Reserve?
You need to visit Shimba Hills National Reserve to enjoy several activities. Game viewing is a rewarding experience because the park is rich in wildlife. Travelers love watching birds in the reserve. You can also enjoy nature walks.
- Which is the best time to visit Shimba Hills National Reserve?
The best time to visit Shimba Hills National Reserve is during the drier months. This is between December and March and between June and September. During the wet season, grass tends to be thicker. Spotting animals can be quite difficult.
- How do I get to Shimba Hills National Reserve?
You can travel by road or air to Shimba Hills National Reserve. If you are in Mombasa, you can travel by road to the reserve. Most lodges such as Shimba Hills Loge offer Shimba Hills National Reserve day trips. If you are in Nairobi, you can fly to Diani or Mombasa. Your tour operator will then pick you up for a safari experience in the reserve.