Diani Cottages - Shimba Hills National Park

Diani Cottages is a safari lodge near Shimba Hills National Park.

Location
Shimba Hills National Park, Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.308556, 39.578037
Elevation
16m
Activities
lodge

PlnrScore: 35/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1165 species observed within 20 km, 43 mammals, 176 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, 66 observations)
  • Redleg Orbweaver (Arachnida, 61 observations)
  • Kenyan Rock Agama (Reptilia, 59 observations)
  • Three-spot Dascyllus (Actinopterygii, 56 observations)
  • Indo-Pacific Sergeant Major (Actinopterygii, 56 observations)

Monthly Climate

MonthHighLowRain
Jan30.7C25.2C71.9mm
Feb31.1C25.6C36.2mm
Mar31.1C25.7C78.2mm
Apr29C24.7C259.3mm
May28.1C24.4C159.3mm
Jun27.1C23.5C109.9mm
Jul26.4C22.6C99.4mm
Aug26.8C22.5C65.3mm
Sep27.8C23C75.9mm
Oct29C23.9C65.9mm
Nov29.3C24.3C135.2mm
Dec30.2C24.6C135.2mm

Best Time to Visit Diani Cottages

The best months to visit Diani 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 Diani Cottages, given its proximity to Shimba Hills National Park?

Staying at Diani Cottages offers excellent access to Shimba Hills National Park, renowned for its population of sable antelope, a rare and beautiful species. You can also expect to see elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various bird species, with guided game drives providing the best opportunities for sightings. The park's dense coastal rainforest also offers a different safari experience compared to the open plains.

What is the ideal time of year to visit Diani Cottages for the best safari experience in Shimba Hills?

The best time to visit Diani Cottages for optimal safari viewing in Shimba Hills is during the dry seasons, from January to March and July to October. During these months, wildlife congregates around water sources, making them easier to spot, and the weather is generally pleasant for game drives and other activities. Avoid the long rains in April-May if possible, as some roads might be challenging.

What kind of accommodation and amenities does Diani Cottages offer, and how does it enhance the safari experience?

Diani Cottages provides comfortable, self-contained cottage-style accommodation, offering a more private and homely atmosphere compared to traditional lodges. Each cottage typically includes essential amenities for a relaxing stay after your safari adventures. This setup is ideal for families or small groups seeking a tranquil base near the park.

How can I arrange transportation to Diani Cottages from Diani Beach or Mombasa, and what are the typical travel times?

Diani Cottages is conveniently accessible from both Diani Beach and Mombasa. From Diani Beach, it's usually a short drive of about 30-45 minutes, while from Mombasa's Moi International Airport (MBA), transfers typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours, including the ferry crossing. Most guests arrange private transfers or taxis, which can often be facilitated by the lodge upon request.

What is the typical price range for a stay at Diani Cottages, and what safari activities are usually included in the package?

The price range for Diani Cottages can vary depending on the season and duration of your stay, generally offering a good value option for a safari lodge near Shimba Hills. While specific inclusions depend on the package, most stays will offer options for guided game drives into Shimba Hills National Park, and some may include full board meals. It's advisable to inquire about current rates and package details directly with the lodge or your tour operator.

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