About Shimba Hills National Reserve

Just beyond the serene sandy beaches of Mombasa lies Shimba Hills National Reserve, a scenic and breathtaking coastal wilderness where rolling hills meet one of Kenya’s largest remaining coastal rainforests.

This reserve offers refreshing adventure and wellness safaris through lush landscapes patrolled by elephants and crowned with panoramic viewpoints — a perfect escape into nature.

Shimba Hills is nationally renowned as home to Kenya’s last breeding herd of the critically endangered sable antelope. These majestic and highly matriarchal antelopes live in closely bonded herds led by a dominant female, making every sighting a powerful wildlife experience set against dramatic forest backdrops.

With its sweeping vistas, misty forests, stunning Sheldrick Falls, and diverse wildlife, the reserve provides striking natural settings ideal for visual storytelling and filmmaking. Its open spaces and scenic terrain also support sports, outdoor events, and guided hikes, offering visitors immersive adventure and wellness experiences within a breathtaking coastal forest landscape.

  • Scenic Trails
  • Panoramic Viewpoints
  • Sheldrick Waterfall
  • Rich biodiversity, including the critically endangered Sable Antelope and herds of forest elephants

Sable Bandas

Public Campsites

  • Professional
  • Makadara
  • Sable bandas

Privately owned Lodges & Hotels:

  • Shimba Hills Lodge
  • Personal effects
  • Drinking water
  • Food
  • Camping equipment

Others;

  • camera
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • First aid kit
  • Sunglasses
  • Appropriate hiking gear

1. You are in the wildlife’s home. Please respect their privacy and right of way.

2. National parks are plastic-free. Single-use plastic is prohibited.

3. General road rules apply. Car hooting or driving under the influence of alcohol are strictly prohibited.

4. Adhere to park entry and exit times. Gates open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM, unless you are spending overnight.

5. Move slowly and quietly. Animals can react dangerously if startled.

6. Noise distracts wildlife. Use mobile phones and sound devices sparingly and only in designated areas.

7. Remain in your vehicle unless in designated areas. Keep doors closed at all times.

8. Observe the maximum speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph). Speeding attracts penalties.

9. Stay on established roads and trails. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited.

10. View wildlife from a minimum distance of 20 meters.

11. Feeding wildlife is prohibited, as it disrupts their diet and leads to human dependency.

12. Carry out all trash to help keep the park clean.

13. Do not leave campfires unattended while camping.

14. Visitors enter the park at their own risk and Terms and conditions apply.

Shimba Hills National Reserve Rates

East Africa Citizen Adult

KES. 500

East Africa Citizen Child

KES. 250

Kenya Resident Adult

KES. 675

Kenya Resident Child

KES. 350

Non Resident Adult

USD 50

Non Resident Child

USD 25

Africa Citizen Adult

USD 20

Africa Citizen Child

USD 10

Shimba Hills National Reserve Gallery