1 Day Shimba Hills National Reserve Tour

7:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up
Begin your adventure with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Diani Beach or surrounding areas. Enjoy a scenic drive of about 45 minutes to reach Shimba Hills National Reserve, a cool and lush forest sanctuary that is teeming with wildlife.
8:00 AM – Wildlife Viewing in Shimba Hills
Upon arrival, embark on a game drive through the verdant rainforest, looking out for the abundant wildlife that roams the reserve. The Shimba Hills is home to a variety of species, including:
African Elephants (the highest density in Kenya)
Giraffes
Buffaloes
Warthogs
Rare Sable Antelope (found only in this region of East Africa)
Smaller mammals like elephant shrews, bushy-tailed mongooses, and fruit bats.
In addition, keep an eye out for colorful forest birds and other wildlife that call this place home. The lush forest offers great opportunities for wildlife photography and exploration.
10:30 AM – Visit Sheldrick Falls
After your game drive, take a break for a short walk to Sheldrick Falls, one of the most scenic spots in the reserve. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 30 meters, creating a beautiful natural pool below. The hike down to the falls is approximately a 45-minute gentle walk, and while the terrain is manageable, it’s recommended for those who are physically fit.
Take in the serene atmosphere of the falls as the water splashes down onto the rocks, surrounded by the dense forest canopy—a perfect spot for relaxation and nature appreciation.
12:30 PM – Lunch at Shimba Rainforest Lodge
After your visit to the falls, head to the Shimba Rainforest Lodge for a delicious lunch. This unique lodge is the only tree hotel at the coast, offering a stunning view from its restaurant overlooking a waterhole. While you enjoy your meal, you’ll have the opportunity to watch elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife come to the waterhole to drink, offering a magical dining experience.
The menu at the lodge features a selection of delicious local and international dishes, with fresh ingredients that showcase the region’s culinary offerings.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive
After lunch, set out for another game drive through the reserve. This is a great chance to spot more wildlife that may have been elusive earlier in the day. Depending on the time of year, you may see herds of elephants, more antelopes, and other animals roaming freely across the landscape. Keep your camera ready as you may encounter a leopard or other elusive species hiding in the underbrush.
4:30 PM – Return to Hotel
After a fulfilling day of exploration and relaxation, begin your journey back to your hotel. You’ll be dropped off around 5:00 PM, filled with memories of the diverse wildlife, serene landscapes, and unforgettable experiences in Shimba Hills National Reserve.

What’s Included:
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Entrance fees to Shimba Hills National Reserve
Game drives within the reserve
Visit to Sheldrick Falls
Lunch at Shimba Rainforest Lodge
Guide and transportation throughout the day
What to Bring:
Comfortable walking shoes for the hike to Sheldrick Falls
Light, casual clothing (consider the weather and forest conditions)
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Camera for capturing wildlife and scenic landscapes
Water bottle and snacks for the journey
Light jacket or sweater (temperatures can drop in the forest)
Sunscreen
Why Choose the Shimba Hills National Reserve Tour?
Exclusive Wildlife Viewing: Spot rare species like the Sable Antelope, as well as elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes.
Scenic Waterfalls: Visit the beautiful Sheldrick Falls, a serene and scenic spot perfect for nature lovers.
Lunch with a View: Enjoy a delicious meal at Shimba Rainforest Lodge, overlooking a wildlife-filled waterhole.
Eco-Tourism Experience: Explore one of East Africa’s most important coastal forests and enjoy its rich biodiversity in a responsible, eco-friendly setting.
Book your 1 Day Shimba Hills National Reserve Tour today and immerse yourself in one of Kenya’s most spectacular natural reserves, rich in wildlife and scenic beauty!