Shimba Hills National Park

A coastal rainforest reserve known for its population of sable antelope, an endangered species in Kenya. It also offers sightings of elephants, buffalo,...

Shimba Hills National Park at a Glance

Location
Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.256926, 39.384426
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Busy
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
July to October for the Great Migration in the Mara. January to February for dry season wildlife. Avoid long rains (April–May).

Getting to Shimba Hills National Park

Nearest airport: Ukunda (UKA), 21 km away.

Nearest international airport: Moi International Airport (MBA), 35 km away.

Big Five in Shimba Hills National Park

1 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo.

Weather & Climate in Shimba Hills National Park

The warmest temperatures in Shimba Hills National Park occur in February, averaging 26.0°C (up to 31.6°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 21.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 50.3mm. Average humidity: 76.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.5°C (rainfall: 74.3mm)
  • February: 26.0°C (rainfall: 50.3mm)
  • March: 26.0°C (rainfall: 97.9mm)
  • April: 24.3°C (rainfall: 272.1mm)
  • May: 23.5°C (rainfall: 136.1mm)
  • June: 22.4°C (rainfall: 98.5mm)
  • July: 21.6°C (rainfall: 94.6mm)
  • August: 21.8°C (rainfall: 68.6mm)
  • September: 22.7°C (rainfall: 73.5mm)
  • October: 23.9°C (rainfall: 81.0mm)
  • November: 24.4°C (rainfall: 188.6mm)
  • December: 24.9°C (rainfall: 143.7mm)

Best Time to Visit Shimba Hills National Park

The best months to visit Shimba Hills National Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.48°C, rainfall 74.3mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 79.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 26.01°C, rainfall 50.3mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 25.96°C, rainfall 97.9mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • April: Good, temperature 24.26°C, rainfall 272.1mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 85.8%
  • May: Good, temperature 23.53°C, rainfall 136.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 22.45°C, rainfall 98.5mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 21.58°C, rainfall 94.6mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 83.1%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.81°C, rainfall 68.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.7°C, rainfall 73.5mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 80.9%
  • October: Great, temperature 23.94°C, rainfall 81mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 79.4%
  • November: Good, temperature 24.43°C, rainfall 188.6mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 82.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.91°C, rainfall 143.7mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 83.1%

Wildlife in Shimba Hills National Park

Home to 71 recorded species including 27 waterbirds, 24 iconic birds, 12 birds of prey, 2 reptiles, 2 tropical birds, 1 primates.

Recommended Packing List for Shimba Hills National Park

Based on average temperature of 23.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 81%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Shimba Hills National Park

50 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem

Visitor Tips - Shimba Hills National Park

We love Shimba Hills for its unique coastal forest ecosystem, a refreshing contrast to the open plains. It's one of the last strongholds for the magnificent sable antelope, and the walk to Sheldrick Falls offers a truly immersive experience, a cooler, greener escape that feels miles away from the coast. We recommend dedicating time to explore its distinct beauty, which feels both luxurious and timeless.

Gate Times

The gates to Shimba Hills National Park typically open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM daily. We always recommend confirming current times on the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) website before your visit, as seasonal adjustments can occur. All park entry permits must be pre-booked and paid for online via the eCitizen platform; cash payments are not accepted at the gate. Ensure you have your booking confirmation readily available.

Tipping

Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your safari guide, we recommend a gratuity of $10-20 per person per day, given discreetly at the end of your safari. For lodge or camp staff, a general tip box is often available, and we suggest contributing $5-10 per person per day, which is then shared among the team. If you receive exceptional service from an individual, a direct tip is also appropriate. Rangers on duty are not typically tipped unless they provide a specific, extraordinary service beyond their regular duties.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya

Shimba Hills National Park FAQs

What is the best way to spot the rare Sable Antelope in Shimba Hills National Park?

To increase your chances of seeing the endangered Sable Antelope, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Engaging a local guide familiar with their preferred grazing areas within the coastal rainforest can also significantly improve your sighting opportunities.

Beyond traditional game drives, what unique activities can visitors enjoy at Shimba Hills National Park?

Shimba Hills offers a refreshing change with guided walks to the stunning Sheldrick Falls, where you can enjoy a natural shower and a picnic. The park also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, particularly from certain viewpoints, making it ideal for photography and scenic appreciation.

Given Shimba Hills' popularity, how can I best experience the park without feeling overwhelmed by crowds?

To avoid the peak crowds, especially during Kenyan public holidays or school breaks, consider visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (e.g., April-May or November). Arriving early in the morning or planning your game drives for late afternoon can also offer a more serene wildlife viewing experience.

What specific health precautions should I take when visiting Shimba Hills National Park due to its high malaria risk?

Due to the high malaria risk in Shimba Hills, it is crucial to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication well before your trip. Additionally, always use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under a mosquito net if available.

When is the optimal time to visit Shimba Hills National Park for the best wildlife viewing and weather conditions?

The dry seasons, typically from January to March and July to October, are generally considered the best times to visit Shimba Hills. During these periods, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources, and the coastal rainforest trails are less muddy, making walks to Sheldrick Falls more enjoyable.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet Kenya by Lonely Planet - In-depth guide to Kenya - Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu, and the coast. Detailed maps, accommodation reviews, and practical travel advice.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds by Joy Adamson - The true story of raising Elsa the lioness in Kenya and releasing her back to the wild. The book that started safari tourism culture and inspired generations.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann - International bestseller about a Swiss woman who falls in love with a Samburu warrior during a holiday in Kenya. A wild, unforgettable true story of cultural collision. Over 4 million copies sold.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen) - The quintessential Africa memoir - a poetic and evocative account of life on a coffee plantation in Kenya. The book that defined the romance of East Africa for generations.
  • I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann - Classic memoir of an Italian woman's life on a Kenyan ranch - turned into a Hollywood film. A beautiful and heartbreaking love letter to East Africa.
  • West with the Night by Beryl Markham - Aviation adventure memoir set in Kenya - Hemingway called it one of the finest books he had ever read. A unique perspective on colonial East Africa.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.