1 Day Shimba Hills Excursion Trip kenya

Welcome to the magical world of Shimba Hills National Reserve, a hidden gem just a short drive from Kenya’s coastal paradise. Our 1 Day Shimba Hills Excursion offers an unforgettable safari experience through one of East Africa’s most diverse coastal forests.

Why Choose a Shimba Hills Tour?

Shimba Hills National Reserve stands apart from Kenya’s more famous savannah parks. Located just 33km from Mombasa, this coastal forest reserve offers a refreshing alternative to traditional safari experiences with:

• Rich biodiversity in a compact, accessible area
• Kenya’s highest density of African elephants
• Rare species including the endangered Sable antelope
• Spectacular Sheldrick Falls and lush forest landscapes
• Easy day trip accessibility from coastal resorts

Your 1 Day Shimba Hills Excursion Experience

Morning Departure and Journey

Your Shimba Hills tour begins with an early morning pickup from your coastal accommodation. As you leave the coast behind, watch the landscape transform from beachfront settlements to rolling hills covered in dense coastal forest. The scenic 45-minute drive offers glimpses into rural Kenyan life before you reach the reserve’s main gate.

Wildlife Viewing and Forest Exploration

Once inside Shimba Hills National Reserve, your expert guide will navigate forest trails in search of the reserve’s famous residents:

• Herds of elephants moving majestically through the forest
• Rare sable antelopes with their distinctive curved horns
• Buffalo grazing in open glades
• Giraffes browsing on acacia trees
• Diverse monkey species including black and white colobus

The reserve’s compact size makes wildlife viewing highly rewarding even on a single day excursion. Your guide’s expertise ensures you maximize wildlife spotting opportunities throughout your Shimba Hills tour.

Lunch with a View

Midday brings a delicious picnic lunch at one of the reserve’s scenic viewpoints. Enjoy freshly prepared meals while taking in panoramic vistas stretching from forest-covered hills to the distant Indian Ocean coastline.

Sheldrick Falls Hike

After lunch, your 1 Day Shimba Hills Excursion continues with an optional guided hike to the spectacular Sheldrick Falls. This 2.5km trail takes you deep into the forest understory, where your guide will point out medicinal plants, unique insects, and bird species. The hike culminates at the 21-meter waterfall, where you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the natural pool below the cascading water.

Afternoon Game Drive and Return

The afternoon portion of your Shimba Hills tour provides another opportunity for wildlife viewing as animals become active again after the midday heat. Different lighting conditions create perfect photography opportunities before you begin your journey back to your coastal accommodation, arriving by early evening with memories to last a lifetime.

When to Experience Your Shimba Hills Excursion

The reserve offers excellent visitor experiences year-round, though wildlife viewing is typically best during the dry seasons (January-February and June-October) when animals concentrate around water sources. The lush green season (March-May) showcases the forest at its most beautiful, with flowing waterfalls and abundant plant life.

What to Bring on Your 1 Day Shimba Hills Tour

• Camera with zoom lens
• Binoculars
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Light raincoat/jacket (weather can change quickly in forest environments)
• Comfortable walking shoes for the waterfall hike
• Swimwear if you plan to swim at Sheldrick Falls
• Insect repellent

Conservation and Community

Your Shimba Hills excursion directly supports vital conservation efforts in this unique ecosystem. The reserve protects one of Kenya’s last coastal forests and provides crucial habitat for endangered species. Additionally, tourism creates sustainable livelihoods for local communities surrounding the reserve.

Book Your 1 Day Shimba Hills Excursion

Experience the wonders of Kenya’s coastal forest reserve with our expertly guided 1 Day Shimba Hills Excursion. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or simply seeking an authentic natural experience, Shimba Hills offers an unforgettable addition to your Kenya coastal holiday.

Contact us today to secure your spot on this popular tour. Our Shimba Hills tour packages include comfortable transportation, expert guides, park fees, and meals to ensure your day is as memorable as it is convenient.

Shimba Hills National Reserve – where coastal forest meets safari adventure, just a day trip away from your beach paradise.