Shimba Hills Lodge - Shimba Hills National Park

Shimba Hills Lodge is a hotel near Shimba Hills National Park.

Location
Shimba Hills National Park, Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.192528, 39.425507
Elevation
297m
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 33/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

476 species observed within 20 km, 37 mammals, 123 birds.

Monthly Climate

MonthHighLowRain
Jan31.6C23.2C67.4mm
Feb32.3C23.5C51.6mm
Mar32C23.7C90.5mm
Apr29.1C23C217.7mm
May28.1C22.3C120.9mm
Jun27.1C21.2C75.7mm
Jul26.4C20.3C68.2mm
Aug27.2C20.2C55.5mm
Sep28.5C20.8C59.6mm
Oct30C21.8C71mm
Nov30C22.5C165.7mm
Dec30.6C22.9C143.3mm

Best Time to Visit Shimba Hills Lodge

The best months to visit Shimba Hills Lodge 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 directly from Shimba Hills Lodge, distinct from other Kenyan safaris?

Shimba Hills Lodge is uniquely positioned overlooking a floodlit waterhole, offering exceptional opportunities to spot elephants, buffalo, and the rare sable antelope right from the lodge's viewing decks. You can also frequently observe various bird species and smaller mammals like bushbabies and genet cats visiting the waterhole at night.

When is the ideal time of year to visit Shimba Hills Lodge for the best wildlife viewing and comfortable weather conditions?

The dry season, typically from June to October and January to February, is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. While the short rains (November-December) bring lush greenery and migratory birds, the dry months offer more reliable game viewing opportunities.

What makes the accommodation and overall experience at Shimba Hills Lodge unique compared to other safari lodges in Kenya?

Shimba Hills Lodge is renowned for its distinctive treehouse-style architecture, built on stilts overlooking a permanent waterhole within the national park. This design provides guests with unparalleled, close-up wildlife viewing opportunities directly from their rooms and the lodge's common areas, creating an immersive safari experience without leaving the comfort of the lodge.

Beyond standard game drives, what unique activities or excursions can guests enjoy while staying at Shimba Hills Lodge?

Guests can embark on guided nature walks within the park, offering a closer look at the unique coastal forest ecosystem and its smaller inhabitants. A popular excursion is the visit to Sheldrick Falls, a beautiful waterfall where you can often spot colobus monkeys and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool.

How accessible is Shimba Hills Lodge from major travel hubs, and what practical advice should I consider for my journey and stay?

Shimba Hills Lodge is conveniently located about an hour's drive southwest of Mombasa, making it easily accessible from Moi International Airport or the coast. It's advisable to arrange transfers through the lodge or a reputable tour operator, and always follow park rules and guide instructions for your safety during game drives and walks.

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