Shimba Hills Public Campsite - Shimba Hills National Park

Shimba Hills Public Campsite is a camp near Shimba Hills National Park.

Location
Shimba Hills National Park, Tsavo & Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.215059, 39.451195
Elevation
362m
Activities
camp

PlnrScore: 35/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1146 species observed within 20 km, 45 mammals, 185 birds.

  • Blue Monkey (Mammalia, 165 observations)
  • Angola Colobus (Mammalia, 157 observations)
  • White-headed Dwarf Gecko (Reptilia, 76 observations)
  • Vervet Monkey (Mammalia, 69 observations)
  • Yellow Baboon (Mammalia, 62 observations)
  • Red-knobbed Sea Star (Animalia, 60 observations)
  • Kenyan Rock Agama (Reptilia, 59 observations)
  • Small-eared Greater Galago (Mammalia, 58 observations)
  • Redleg Orbweaver (Arachnida, 58 observations)
  • Indo-Pacific Sergeant Major (Actinopterygii, 55 observations)

Monthly Climate

MonthHighLowRain
Jan30.6C22.3C67.4mm
Feb31.4C22.6C51.6mm
Mar31.1C22.8C90.5mm
Apr28.1C22C217.7mm
May27.1C21.3C120.9mm
Jun26.1C20.2C75.7mm
Jul25.4C19.3C68.2mm
Aug26.2C19.2C55.5mm
Sep27.5C19.8C59.6mm
Oct29C20.8C71mm
Nov29C21.6C165.7mm
Dec29.7C21.9C143.3mm

Best Time to Visit Shimba Hills Public Campsite

The best months to visit Shimba Hills Public Campsite 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 is the best time of year to camp at Shimba Hills Public Campsite for optimal wildlife viewing?

The dry seasons, from January to March and July to October, are ideal for camping at Shimba Hills Public Campsite. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources, and the trails are less muddy for exploring.

What facilities and wildlife encounters can I expect when staying at Shimba Hills Public Campsite?

As a public campsite, expect basic amenities like shared ablution blocks and designated pitching areas, requiring you to bring your own camping gear and food. You might encounter smaller wildlife like monkeys and various bird species directly at the campsite, with larger animals like sable antelope and elephants visible during game drives in the nearby Shimba Hills National Park.

What are the typical costs associated with camping at Shimba Hills Public Campsite, including park entry?

Camping fees at Shimba Hills Public Campsite are separate from the Shimba Hills National Park entry fees, which are charged per person per day. It's advisable to check the latest Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rates for both the campsite and park entry, as these can vary for residents and non-residents.

What safety precautions should campers take regarding wildlife at Shimba Hills Public Campsite?

While the campsite is generally safe, it's crucial to secure food properly to deter monkeys and other small animals, and avoid walking alone at night. Always be aware of your surroundings, as the campsite is unfenced and larger wildlife from Shimba Hills National Park can occasionally pass through.

Beyond general safari animals, what unique wildlife can I hope to see when visiting Shimba Hills National Park from the public campsite?

Shimba Hills National Park is renowned for being the last stronghold of the endangered sable antelope in Kenya, making it a primary target for wildlife enthusiasts. You also have good chances of spotting elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various bird species, including the rare Sokoke scops owl, during your game drives.

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