Location: 55 km (34 mi) South of Mombasa Map
Area: 193 km2 (74.33 sq mi)
Tel. 020 600 800
Open: 6am- 7pm daily
Located in Kenya’s Kwale County, approximately 33 kilometers south of Mombasa and 15 kilometers from Diani Beach, Shimba Hills National Reserve is a 192.4-square-kilometer protected area renowned for its lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty. Established in 1968 and managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the reserve is one of the largest coastal forests in East Africa, second only to Arabuko-Sokoke Forest. Nestled at an elevation of 120–450 meters above sea level, it offers a cooler, greener contrast to the coastal plains, with rolling hills, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Home to the rare sable antelope, over 700 elephants, and a rich array of flora and fauna, Shimba Hills is a biodiversity hotspot and a key destination for eco-tourism, hiking, and cultural exploration in Kenya’s coastal region.
Shimba Hills National Reserve lies within the Coastal Belt of
Kenya, part of the ancient East African coastal plain formed
millions of years ago. The hills are a dissected plateau of
sandstone and shale, shaped by erosion and tectonic activity,
with steep valleys and ridges carved by rivers. The reserve’s
geology includes porous soils that support dense forest cover
and act as a critical water catchment for the region, feeding
rivers like the Marere, Pemba, and Mkurumudzi, which supply
water to Mombasa and surrounding areas.
The reserve’s
climate is tropical, with high humidity (80–90%) and
temperatures ranging from 20–30°C. Annual rainfall averages
1,000–1,400 mm, concentrated in two wet seasons: the long rains
(March–May) and short rains (October–November). The dry seasons
(June–September, January–February) are ideal for visiting due to
clearer trails and concentrated wildlife. The forest’s high
humidity and shade create a distinct microclimate, supporting a
rainforest ecosystem rare in East Africa.
The reserve
encompasses diverse habitats:
Tropical Rainforest: Dense,
evergreen forest with tall trees like Mvule (Milicia excelsa),
Mshai (Afzelia quanzensis), and African teak (Chlorophora
excelsa), interspersed with ferns, lianas, and epiphytes. This
covers ~60% of the reserve.
Grasslands and Savanna: Open
patches, particularly in the Longo-Magandi area, support grazers
like sable antelopes and buffaloes.
Riverine Forests: Lush
vegetation along rivers, with figs, palms, and Raphia palms.
Woodlands and Scrublands: Transitional zones with acacias and
Combretum species.
Waterfalls and Rivers: Sheldrick Falls (21
meters) and Marere Springs are scenic highlights, fed by
perennial streams.
The Mwaluganje River, flowing through the
reserve, supports a dam that regulates water flow and attracts
wildlife, while the forest’s role as a carbon sink and water
catchment underscores its ecological importance.
Shimba Hills is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting over 1,200 plant
species, 280 bird species, 50 mammal species, and numerous
reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Its isolation as a coastal
forest fragment has preserved endemic and rare species, earning
it recognition as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) and part of the
Coastal Forests of Eastern Africa biodiversity hotspot.
Flora:
The forest contains 700–1,200 plant species, with 25%
endemic or rare. Notable trees include Mvule (used for timber),
African sandalwood (Osyris lanceolata), and Prunus africana
(medicinal). Orchids (19 species), ferns, and epiphytes thrive
in the canopy, while Cycads (Encephalartos hildebrandtii) are a
rare find.
Grasslands feature Themeda triandra and Cynodon
dactylon, supporting herbivores. Invasive species like Lantana
camara are managed to protect native flora.
Mammals:
Sable Antelope: Shimba Hills is Kenya’s only stronghold for this
rare antelope, with ~100–150 individuals in the Longo-Magandi
area. Their distinctive curved horns and dark coats make them a
flagship species.
Elephants: The reserve hosts 700–1,000
elephants, one of Kenya’s largest populations, though
human-wildlife conflict is a concern due to nearby farms.
Predators: Leopards are common but elusive, hiding in dense
forest. Lions are extinct in the reserve, but spotted hyenas,
jackals, and rare servals and caracals are present.
Primates:
Black-and-white colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys,
and bushbabies (galagos) are abundant, often seen in riverine
forests.
Other Herbivores: Cape buffaloes, bushbucks,
waterbucks, duikers (red and blue), suni antelopes, bushpigs,
and warthogs roam the grasslands and forest edges.
Rare
Mammals: The golden-rumped elephant shrew, an endemic
insectivore, is a unique sighting, as are aardvarks and
pangolins.
Birds:
With 280 species, Shimba Hills is an
Important Bird Area (IBA). Notable species include the African
crowned eagle, southern banded snake eagle (endangered, ~12
individuals), fischer’s turaco, green barbet, east coast akalat,
spotted ground thrush, plain-backed sunbird, and
chestnut-fronted helmet-shrike.
Migratory birds like the
African pitta and basra reed warbler visit during October–April.
The forest canopy and Mwaluganje River are prime birding spots.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
Snakes include gaboon vipers,
forest cobras, green mambas, and pythons. Lizards like agamas,
skinks, and monitor lizards are common, with chameleons in the
forest understory.
Frogs, including the Shimba Hills reed
frog, thrive in streams and pools, particularly during the wet
season.
Insects:
Over 260 butterfly species, including
the coastal purple tip and Shimba Hills blue, attract
entomologists. Beetles, moths, and dragonflies support
pollination, with ant colonies shaping forest soils.
Shimba Hills National Reserve offers a serene, less crowded
alternative to Kenya’s savanna parks, with a focus on hiking,
birdwatching, and scenic exploration. Its proximity to Mombasa
and Diani Beach makes it ideal for day trips or multi-day
safaris. Key attractions and activities include:
Game
Drives:
Morning (6:30–9 AM), afternoon (4–6:30 PM), or
full-day drives cover 150 km of well-maintained gravel roads,
offering sightings of sable antelopes, elephants, and buffaloes.
Popular routes include the Longo-Magandi loop (for sables),
Mwaluganje River circuit (for elephants), and Giriama Point road
(for views). Guided drives with KWS rangers or lodge operators
enhance wildlife spotting.
Hiking and Nature Walks:
Guided walks (with armed KWS rangers) explore forest trails,
waterfalls, and viewpoints. Key trails include:
Sheldrick
Falls Trail (2 km, 45 minutes): A scenic hike to a 21-meter
waterfall, best during the wet season. Swimming is possible in
the pool below.
Pengo Hill Trail (3 km, 1–2 hours): Leads to
the reserve’s highest point (450 m) with views of the Indian
Ocean and Usambara Mountains.
Marere Forest Trail (1–2 km): A
shaded walk to Marere Springs, a historic water source with
giant fig trees.
Night walks, arranged by lodges, reveal
bushbabies, owls, and glowing fungi.
Birdwatching:
The
forest’s canopy and riverine areas are ideal for spotting rare
species like the southern banded snake eagle and fischer’s
turaco. Guided birding tours, available through Shimba Lodge or
KWS, target forest and grassland species. Early mornings (6–8
AM) maximize sightings.
Waterfalls and Springs:
Sheldrick Falls: A 21-meter cascade named after conservationist
David Sheldrick, accessible via a short hike. The falls are a
refreshing stop, with a natural pool for swimming.
Marere
Springs: A perennial spring with clear water, surrounded by
ancient figs and palms. The nearby Marere Dam attracts elephants
and antelopes.
Scenic Viewpoints:
Giriama Point:
Offers panoramic views of the hills, forest, and distant ocean.
Ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Pengo Hill: The
reserve’s highest point, with vistas of the Shimba plateau and
coastal plains.
Elephant Lookout: A hilltop platform for
spotting elephant herds in the valley below.
Cultural
Experiences:
The reserve borders Digo and Duruma communities,
sub-groups of the Mijikenda. Cultural tours to nearby villages
like Kwale or Lunga Lunga showcase Mijikenda dances, crafts
(e.g., sisal baskets), and cuisine (e.g., coconut-based dishes).
The Mwaluganje Community Conservancy, adjacent to the reserve,
offers insights into local conservation efforts.
Photography:
The reserve’s misty forests, cascading falls,
and sable antelopes provide stunning photo opportunities. The
euphorbia-like Cycads and golden-hour views from Giriama Point
are iconic. Macro photography captures butterflies, orchids, and
elephant shrews.
Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary:
Adjacent to the reserve, this 36 km² sanctuary (established
1995) protects ~150 elephants and offers game drives and
cultural tours. It’s a quieter alternative to the reserve, with
views of the Mwaluganje River and community-run initiatives.
Shimba Hills National Reserve is a critical conservation site,
protecting one of East Africa’s last coastal rainforests and its
flagship species, the sable antelope. However, it faces
significant challenges:
Human-Wildlife Conflict:
Elephants frequently raid crops in nearby villages, leading to
retaliatory killings. The reserve’s partial fencing (100 km
completed by 2020) reduces conflicts, but gaps remain. The
Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary mitigates this through community
benefits.
Deforestation and Encroachment: Illegal logging,
charcoal burning, and farmland expansion threaten the forest,
particularly in unfenced areas. The forest’s size has shrunk
from 300 km² historically to 192 km².
Poaching: Sable
antelopes and elephants are targeted, though KWS patrols and
community scouts have reduced incidents. The golden-rumped
elephant shrew is vulnerable to habitat loss.
Invasive
Species: Lantana camara and Maesopsis eminii compete with native
plants, requiring manual removal.
Climate Change: Erratic
rainfall and prolonged droughts stress water sources, affecting
wildlife and river flows. Flooding during heavy rains (e.g.,
2019) damages trails.
Conservation efforts include:
Sable Antelope Protection: KWS monitors the population, with
breeding programs to boost numbers. The Longo-Magandi area is a
designated sanctuary.
Elephant Management: Fencing, community
compensation, and the Mwaluganje Sanctuary reduce conflicts. GPS
tracking monitors elephant movements.
Reforestation: KWS and
NGOs like the Shimba Hills Conservation Project plant native
trees and remove invasives.
Community Engagement: The Kwale
Community-Based Conservation Programme trains locals as guides,
funds schools, and promotes eco-tourism. Revenue from gate fees
(~USD 1 million annually pre-COVID) supports these initiatives.
Biodiversity Research: The National Museums of Kenya and World
Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) study rare species, informing global
coastal forest conservation.
Shimba Hills is steeped in Mijikenda culture, with the Digo and
Duruma viewing the forest as a spiritual site. Sacred groves,
known as Kaya forests, are used for rituals and are UNESCO World
Heritage Sites (e.g., Kaya Shimba, 5 km from the reserve). The
forest’s name, “Shimba,” derives from a Mijikenda term meaning
“lion” or “hill,” reflecting its wildlife and topography. Local
folklore tells of forest spirits and hidden caves, adding
mystique.
Historically, the hills were a refuge for
Mijikenda communities during 19th-century slave raids and
colonial conflicts. British colonialists logged the forest for
timber, reducing its size, but conservation efforts since the
1960s have prioritized its protection. The reserve’s proximity
to Mombasa’s tourism hub has made it a cultural bridge, blending
coastal Swahili and inland Mijikenda heritage.
Access:
By Road: From Mombasa (33 km, 1–1.5 hours), take the
A14 to Kwale, then a 10 km gravel road to the Main Gate
(Kidongo). From Diani Beach (15 km, 30–45 minutes), the C106
leads to the Kwale Gate. 4WD is recommended during the wet
season; 2WD suffices in the dry season. Matatus from Mombasa or
Diani to Kwale, followed by a boda-boda, are budget options.
By Air: Flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport or Mombasa’s Moi
International Airport to Ukunda Airstrip (20 km from Diani) take
15–45 minutes, followed by a road transfer. Charters can land at
the reserve’s Shimba Airstrip.
By Ferry: From Mombasa, the
Likoni Ferry crosses to Diani, reducing road time for coastal
visitors.
Best Time to Visit:
Dry Seasons
(June–September, January–February): Clear trails, abundant
wildlife, and cooler temperatures. Sable antelopes and elephants
are easier to spot.
Wet Seasons (March–May,
October–November): Lush greenery, active waterfalls, and
migratory birds, but muddy roads and leech risks require 4WD and
preparation.
Entry Fees:
Paid via the KWS e-Citizen
platform (https://kws.ecitizen.go.ke) using M-Pesa, Airtel
Money, or cards. Non-residents pay ~USD 22 (adults), USD 13
(children); Kenyan residents pay ~KSh 300–600. Guide fees (~KSh
1,000–2,000) and camping fees (~USD 15–20) apply. Mwaluganje
Sanctuary charges separately (~USD 15–20).
Accommodation:
Inside the Reserve:
Shimba Hills Green Lodge (KWS): Mid-range
bandas with forest views, self-catering or full-board (~USD
50–100/night).
Shimba Rainforest Lodge: Budget cottages near
Sheldrick Falls, with basic amenities (~USD 30–60/night).
KWS
Campsites (Marere, Ocean View): Basic, with showers and firepits
(~USD 15–20/night).
Nearby:
Diani Beach: Luxury
options like Baobab Beach Resort, Leopard Beach Resort (~USD
100–300/night) or budget guesthouses (~USD 20–50/night).
Mwaluganje Sanctuary: Mwaluganje Elephant Camp, with tented
rooms (~USD 80–150/night).
Kwale: Basic lodges like Shimba
Hills Lodge (~USD 20–40/night).
Activities and Tips:
Book guided walks or drives through KWS or lodges for safety and
expertise.
Bring binoculars, insect repellent, sturdy boots,
and a raincoat (wet season). Leech socks are advised for forest
hikes.
Visit Sheldrick Falls early to avoid crowds; swim only
with a guide’s approval.
Check road conditions during rains;
4WDs are safer for remote trails.
Combine with coastal
attractions: Diani Beach (snorkeling), Wasini Island (dolphin
tours), or Mwaluganje Sanctuary (elephants).
Respect
Mijikenda sacred sites; ask permission before photographing
locals.
Shimba Hills is a vital research site for coastal forest
ecology, sable antelope conservation, and elephant behavior.
Studies by the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) and
African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) monitor forest regeneration
and rare species, informing global strategies for fragmented
ecosystems. The reserve’s role as a water catchment supports
Mombasa’s water security, while its carbon sequestration
mitigates climate change.
Globally, Shimba Hills’ sable
antelope population and coastal rainforest make it a
conservation priority, drawing ~50,000 visitors annually
(pre-COVID) and contributing ~USD 2 million to Kenya’s economy.
Its proximity to Mombasa positions it as a model for integrating
coastal tourism with wildlife conservation, as seen in
partnerships with Diani’s eco-lodges. The reserve’s challenges,
particularly human-wildlife conflict, highlight the need for
community-driven solutions, a lesson for other tropical forest
reserves.