Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve is one of Kenya’s most scenic and ecologically rich protected areas, located just 33 km from Mombasa along the country’s southern coast. Known for its rolling green hills, mist-covered forests, dramatic escarpments, and unique wildlife, Shimba Hills offers a refreshing escape from the coastal heat and a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility.
Activities
- Nature walks around Sheldrick Falls
- Bird watching in one of Kenya’s richest avian regions
- Cultural experiences with nearby local communities
- Photography of dramatic landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset
Attractions
- Sheldrick Falls – A Must-Visit Experience One of the reserve’s best attractions is Sheldrick Falls, a spectacular 25-meter waterfall hidden deep within the forest. Reaching the falls requires a 2 km guided nature walk—an exciting trek that rewards adventurers with a cool, refreshing atmosphere and stunning natural scenery.
- Shimba Hills is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species, including: African hawk-eagle, Narina trogon, Palm-nut vulture, Green tinkerbird, Coastal endemics like the Fischer’s turaco. The reserve is also famous for its incredible variety of butterflies, many of which thrive in the forested areas.