1 Day shimba hills game reserve
Shimba Hills 1-Day Safari – Highlights
1. Wildlife Game Drive
Spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, warthogs, bushbuck, and more.
Home to the rare Sable Antelope, found only here in Kenya.
Excellent birdwatching: over 200 bird species.
2. Sheldrick Falls Hike
Scenic 2 km guided forest hike to a 21-meter waterfall.
Optional swim in the natural pool (season and safety permitting).
Trail passes through tropical rainforest with butterflies, birds, and medicinal plants.
3. Rainforest & Coastal Ecosystems
One of the last remaining coastal rainforest reserves in East Africa.
Rich in flora and fauna, including endangered plant species and butterflies.
Cooler, misty climate with elevated views — a contrast to the coastal heat.
4. Panoramic Views & Lookout Points
Visit Marere Viewpoint for sweeping views of Mombasa, the Indian Ocean, and even Tanzania’s Usambara Mountains on a clear day.
Peaceful, uncrowded environment compared to bigger parks.
5. Cultural Encounters (Optional)
Visits to Shifoga Nature Trail or local Giriama/Mijikenda communities.
Learn about traditional herbal medicine and forest conservation.
6. Shimba Hills Lodge (Lunch Stop)
Unique tree-top lodge set in the forest.
Enjoy lunch while overlooking a wildlife-rich waterhole — elephants often visit.
Ideal For:
Travelers staying in Diani, Tiwi, or Mombasa.
Those seeking a short, scenic wildlife escape from the beach.
Nature lovers, hikers, birdwatchers, and photographers.
Hotel Transfers Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Diani, Tiwi, or Mombasa. ✔️ Safari Vehicle Transport in a 4×4 safari van or Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for game viewing. ✔️ Park Entrance Fees All Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) entry fees for Shimba Hills National Reserve and Sheldrick Falls. ✔️ Guided Game Drives Half- or full-day game drive with an experienced English-speaking safari guide. ✔️ Guided Nature Walk Ranger-guided hike to Sheldrick Falls, with optional swim (conditions permitting). ✔️ Lunch Hot lunch at Shimba Hills Lodge (or similar lodge), usually with bottled water or a soft drink. ✔️ Bottled Water
International or domestic flights
Drinks and alcoholic beverages at lodges or camps (unless stated)
Extra meals not specified in the itinerary
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, tips, etc.)
Tips/gratuities for driver/guide, lodge staff, etc.
Optional activities (e.g., nature walks, night game drives – if available)
Visa fees (if applicable)
Travel insurance and medical cover
Phone calls, internet, or other communication costs at lodges
6:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up
Pick-up from your accommodation in Diani, Tiwi, Ukunda, or Mombasa.
Comfortable drive (about 1.5–2.5 hours) through scenic coastal countryside en route to Shimba Hills National Reserve.
8:30 AM – Arrival at Shimba Hills National Reserve
Meet your professional Kenya Wildlife Service ranger/guide.
Receive a briefing about the reserve and safety tips.
9:00 AM – Morning Game Drive
Embark on a guided game drive inside the reserve.
Spot wildlife including:
African elephants
Sable antelope (rare and endemic to this park)
Buffalo
Giraffes
Impala Various monkeys and bushbucks
Great opportunities for birdwatching with over 200 species recorded.
10:30 AM – Guided Nature Walk to Sheldrick Falls
Start a 2 km guided hike through the lush coastal rainforest to the Sheldrick Falls.
Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, spot butterflies, birds, and unique flora.
Optional swim in the waterfall’s plunge pool (weather and safety permitting).
12:30 PM – Lunch at Shimba Hills Lodge
Relax and enjoy a delicious hot lunch at the tree-top lodge overlooking a wildlife waterhole.
Watch elephants, bushbucks, and various birds come to drink while you eat.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive & Scenic Views
Optional second game drive or nature walk to explore other parts of the reserve.
Visit Marere Viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and, on clear days, even Tanzania’s Usambara Mountains.
3:30 PM – Depart Shimba Hills
Begin the journey back to your hotel.
Drive through coastal villages and scenic farmland.
5:00 PM – Return to Hotel
Drop-off at your accommodation.
End of safari.