Things to do at Diani Beach: Visit the Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills is 30 km from Diani Beach and is approximately 250 square km in size. The breath-taking views of the hills and valleys ensconced among tropical rainforests are a true sight to behold. If you are visiting Diani Beach and choose to take a hike at Shimba Hills you will not only see a variety of game but also experience nature at its best with the marvelous Sheldrick’s  Falls being a must see.

The escarpments at Shimba Hills rise to about 450 meters. The climate here is a little cooler than at the Diani Beach with strong breezes characterize a normal day with occasional misty and cloudy mornings. However, a typical day at Shimba Hills features temperatures of between 24°C – 28°C perfect for a stress free outing.The Reserve charges very fair entry fees but the experience is worth the money.

Some of the wildlife you should expect to see include elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, giraffes, leopards, baboons, black-faced velvet monkey and the bush pig among other smaller animals.

Regular flights to Shimba Hills leave Diani Beach airstrip and the Mombasa International airport. Alternatively you can drive from Diani Beach which is a much better mode of transport since you are up and close to the surrounding all the while.

view-of diani beach from the hills

The reserve is host to several accommodation options including the Shimba Lodge, the Sable bandas and for the budget traveler; you can stay at the Self-catering accommodation operated by the Kenya wildlife service.

Shimba is suitable for all year travels and is not limited to seasonal openings. Other activities that elicit interest include bird-shooting permitted outside the reserve and the walking safaris where you get up close to the wildlife.

Quick facts on Shimba Hills: A fenced elephant corridor connects the Shimba Hills with Waluganje Forest Reserve to the North. Mkongani North and Mkongani West Forest Reserve form the forested area at the Shimba Hills with the rest comprising of plateaus that rise sharply from the coastal plains.

Sheldrick falls fun

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