The Shimba Hills National Reserve is a small National Reserve in the former Coast Province of Kenya, 33 km from Mombasa and 15 km from the coast. The reserve is an area of coastal rainforest, woodland and grassland. It is an important area for plant biodiversity – over 50% of the 159 rare plants in Kenya are found in the Shimba Hills, including some endangered species of cycad and orchids. It is also a nationally important site for birds and butterflies. There are estimated to be approximately 700 elephants in the reserve. This population is unsustainably high – it causes significant damage to vegetation, threatening the endangered plant life. The conflict between humans and elephants has also reached critical levels.

North of the reserve, the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary has been established to provide a route for elephants to leave the park. The remainder of the park boundary is fenced to prevent the elephants from invading farmland. Shimba Hills contains Kenya’s only population of sable antelope. There are about 100 in the park.

Accessibility: From Mombasa or Diani Beach, the road is good, it is about an hour’s drive from Diani Beach.

Airport – Moi International Airport in Mombasa.

Attractions

• The only place in Kenya you can see Sable Antelope.

• Guided forest walks up to the scenically beautiful Sheldrick Falls.

• It is known for its herds of Elephants.

• Visit the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary.

• Scenic viewpoints and five picnic areas.

Activities: The Kenya Wildlife Service offers guided walks to the Sheldrick Falls – a great opportunity to see the birdlife in the forest. Game drives are more adventurous than on the savannahs as animals are harder to spot.

You can also go for sundowners on Pengo Hill, which faces west and watch the sun drop down below the horizon. On a clear day you can see the Tsavo Plains and Mt Kilimanjaro.

Conservation

Shimba Hills National Park is a vital conservation area known for its unique biodiversity, including the endangered Sitatunga antelope and diverse bird species. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement to promote sustainable practices. Local communities are involved in eco-tourism initiatives, which provide alternative livelihoods while raising awareness about the importance of preserving the park’s ecosystems. Ongoing research and monitoring help address threats such as deforestation and human-wildlife conflict, ensuring the park’s ecological health and the protection of its wildlife.