African Dream Cottages - Shimba Hills National Park

African Dream Cottages is a safari lodge near Shimba Hills National Park.

Location
Shimba Hills National Park, Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.310881, 39.572662
Elevation
12m
Activities
lodge

PlnrScore: 35/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1180 species observed within 20 km, 42 mammals, 181 birds.

  • Blue Monkey (Mammalia, 183 observations)
  • Angola Colobus (Mammalia, 157 observations)
  • White-headed Dwarf Gecko (Reptilia, 81 observations)
  • Vervet Monkey (Mammalia, 75 observations)
  • Red-knobbed Sea Star (Animalia, 71 observations)
  • Yellow Baboon (Mammalia, 67 observations)
  • Redleg Orbweaver (Arachnida, 62 observations)
  • Kenyan Rock Agama (Reptilia, 59 observations)
  • Three-spot Dascyllus (Actinopterygii, 56 observations)
  • Indo-Pacific Sergeant Major (Actinopterygii, 56 observations)

Monthly Climate

MonthHighLowRain
Jan31C25.2C72.6mm
Feb31.5C25.6C36.6mm
Mar31.3C25.6C87.9mm
Apr29.1C24.6C302.4mm
May28.2C24.3C173mm
Jun27.1C23.4C120.1mm
Jul26.3C22.4C103.9mm
Aug26.8C22.3C71.8mm
Sep27.8C22.9C79.1mm
Oct29.1C23.7C77.2mm
Nov29.5C24.3C157.8mm
Dec30.5C24.6C129.5mm

Best Time to Visit African Dream Cottages

The best months to visit African Dream Cottages 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%

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique wildlife encounters can I expect when staying at African Dream Cottages, given its proximity to Shimba Hills National Park?

Shimba Hills is renowned for its population of rare sable antelope, which you have a good chance of spotting during game drives from African Dream Cottages. The park is also home to elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various bird species, offering a distinct coastal forest safari experience different from the larger savannah parks.

When is the best time to visit African Dream Cottages for optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable weather in the Shimba Hills region?

The dry season, from June to October and January to February, is generally ideal for visiting African Dream Cottages. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources, and the weather is pleasantly warm with less humidity, perfect for exploring the park and enjoying the lodge's amenities.

What unique amenities or experiences does African Dream Cottages offer beyond standard game drives in Shimba Hills?

African Dream Cottages provides a tranquil retreat with stunning views over the Shimba Hills, often featuring a swimming pool and private verandahs for relaxation. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, bird watching, and visits to the nearby Sheldrick Falls, offering a blend of adventure and serene lodge-based activities.

How can I best arrange transportation to African Dream Cottages from popular coastal destinations like Mombasa or Diani Beach?

African Dream Cottages is conveniently accessible by road, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Mombasa or Diani Beach. Most guests arrange private transfers directly with the lodge or through their safari operator, which often includes pick-up from Moi International Airport (Mombasa) or Ukunda Airstrip (Diani).

What is the typical price range for a stay at African Dream Cottages, and are there any specific booking considerations?

While prices vary by season and room type, a stay at African Dream Cottages generally falls into a mid-range budget for a safari lodge in Kenya. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons, and inquire about packages that might include game drives or full-board options for a comprehensive experience.

Other Safari Lodges in Shimba Hills National Park

Parks in Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Kenya

Travel advisory for Kenya