Plizio Visual Lab
Shimba Hills National Reserve
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
Shimba Hills National Reserve is located approximately 33 kilometers south of Mombasa and stands as one of the largest coastal protected areas in Kenya. The 192-square-kilometer reserve is characterized by rolling hills, lush tropical rainforests, and expansive grasslands. It is of critical conservation importance as the only place in Kenya where the majestic Sable Antelope can be found in the wild. The region receives high annual rainfall, resulting in dense vegetation and the formation of spectacular natural features like the Sheldrick Falls. Officially established in 1968, the reserve serves as a vital sanctuary for African elephants, which migrate between the hills and the neighboring Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary. Due to its elevation and proximity to the Indian Ocean, it features a cooler climate and a unique blend of tropical forest scenery and traditional savannah wildlife viewing.
- Location: Kenya
- Top sights: Pengo Hill · Shimba Hills National Reserve · Shimba Hills National Park
- Nearby: Kwale (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 25 | 15 | 62 | 129 | 217 | 74 | 36 | 29 | 38 | 98 | 104 | 69 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time to visit Shimba Hills is the dry season from June to October, when roads are passable. Rare sable antelopes gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot.
Best time of day
Early morning between 6 and 9 AM is when animals are most active before the heat. Late afternoon also has good viewing opportunities as the sun lowers and shadows increase.
Etiquette
Always stay on marked trails to avoid damaging the fragile vegetation. Do not feed the animals and maintain a respectful distance of at least 20 meters from all wildlife.
What to bring
A good pair of binoculars is essential to spot the shy antelopes across the vast grasslands. Sturdy hiking boots and long trousers protect against thorns and insects.
Getting there
The reserve is located about 30 km southwest of Mombasa, reachable by car in an hour. The main access is via the A14 highway followed by a gravel road to the entrance gate.
What to expect
The sable antelope is rare and shy; you need plenty of patience and quiet observation. Drive slowly and stop at viewpoints to avoid startling the animals.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve covers a total area of approximately 192 square kilometers.
- It is home to Kenya's only indigenous population of Sable Antelope.
- Sheldrick Falls features a spectacular 21-meter drop into a natural pool.
- The reserve was officially gazetted as a protected area in 1968.
- Over 100 different bird species are resident or migratory in the reserve.
- The terrain rises to an elevation of up to 450 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Shimba Hills National Reserve (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Shimba Hills National Reserve?
A protected area near the coast, known for its tropical rainforests and the rare sable antelope.
Where can you go hiking?
A guided hike to the Sheldrick Falls is a highlight of the reserve.
Are there elephants in Shimba Hills?
Yes, there is a significant number of elephants, often seen at watering holes.
How far is it from Diani Beach?
It is only about a 30 to 45-minute drive from Diani Beach, convenient for a day trip.
What is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon when it's cooler and animals are more active.
Shimba Hills National Reserve: where is it located?
Shimba Hills National Reserve is located in Kenya.
Shimba Hills National Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pengo Hill, Shimba Hills National Reserve, Shimba Hills National Park.
Shimba Hills National Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Shimba Hills National Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Shimba Hills National Reserve is located approximately 33 kilometers south of Mombasa and stands as one of the largest coastal protected areas in Kenya.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Kenya →
Nearby cities
Kwale
Kwale is a hilltop town near the coast, serving as the headquarters for Kwale County.
Wasini Island
A peaceful car-free island known for its Swahili culture, coral gardens, and fresh seafood.
🗺️
Funzi Island
A remote island characterized by vast mangroves, shifting sandbars, and untouched nature in southern Kenya.
Diani Galu Kinondo
A paradisiacal coastal stretch south of Mombasa featuring dazzling white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Kisite Mpunguti
A premier marine park on Kenya's south coast, famous for its coral reefs and dolphin sightings.
🗺️
Gasi
Gasi is a charming coastal village in Kenya, known for its pristine beaches and direct access to the Indian Ocean.
Mombasa
Mombasa is the oldest and second-largest city in Kenya, located on the Indian Ocean coast.
Mariakani
Mariakani is a transit and industrial town straddling the border between Kilifi and Kwale counties.
Nyali
An affluent residential and resort area in Mombasa featuring pristine beaches and modern amenities.
Sonseca
A town in the province of Toledo, renowned for its marzipan production and furniture industry.
Ciudad Real
A city in the Castile-La Mancha region, closely linked to the literary figure of Don Quixote.
Madridejos
A town in the heart of La Mancha, Spain, known for its saffron production, Manchego cheese, and a beautifully preserved 17th-century wind…
Daimiel
Known as the gateway to the Tablas de Daimiel National Park, a unique wetland ecosystem.
Fuensalida
Fuensalida is a town in the province of Toledo, famous for its long-standing tradition in shoemaking.
Kilifi
Kilifi is a picturesque resort town on the Kenyan coast, known for its beautiful estuary, white sandy beaches, and ancient ruins.
History & landmarks
Mombasa Terminus (SGR)
The modern terminus station of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Mombasa with iconic architecture.
Mombasa Tusks
Two giant crossed aluminum tusks spanning Moi Avenue in Mombasa.
Consuegra
An iconic La Mancha village famous for its twelve white windmills and medieval castle lining the Calderico Hill ridge.
Kilifi Bridge
One of the longest bridges in Kenya, spanning the Kilifi Creek and connecting Mtwapa to Malindi.
Almagro
Historic town in La Mancha, famous for its preserved 17th-century open-air theatre and unique green-glassed Plaza Mayor.
More places
Kwale Titanium Mine
A major mineral sands mining project on the Kenyan coast, producing rutile, ilmenite, and zircon.
Diani Beach
A beautiful white sandy beach, ideal for families to play and swim.
Cabañeros National Park
Cabañeros is often referred to as the 'Spanish Serengeti' and is located in Castile-La Mancha.
Mountains of Toledo
This mountain range of medium height is located in the heart of the Meseta Central, separating the Tagus and Guadiana basins.
Base Titanium Loading Facility Likoni
A specialized port facility for exporting mineral sands mined in Kwale.
Mombasa Oil Refinery (KPRL)
A major facility that formerly refined crude oil for the East African market, now serving as a storage facility.
Makupa Causeway
A historic road and rail link constructed in 1929 to connect Mombasa Island to the Kenyan mainland.
Krapf Memorial
A memorial site in Mombasa dedicated to the German missionary Dr.