Elephants are abundant in Shimba Hills. They are easily lost in the forest, and close-up sightings are not assured, but an eagle’s eye view of the forest from one of the viewing spots, particularly Elephant Hill, is typically fruitful. Buffalo, waterbuck, giraffe, and bushbuck are other prevalent mammals.
Shimba Hills is a haven for numerous woodland species. The only Big Five creatures you’re likely to see are elephants and buffalo. Predator sightings are uncommon, but a Masai giraffe has been brought, and many intriguing antelope species live natively here. The red-bellied coast squirrel and the Greater galago, both of which have become accustomed to Shimba Hills Lodge, are two of the charming smaller residents.
Scenery
The environment of the reserve is made up of coastal rainforest and grassland intermingled with woodland and coastal bush. Shimba Hills is one of the most diversified forested ecosystems on the Kenyan coast, home to over 1000 plant species. Sheldrick Falls features a wonderful plunge pool where you can cool off.
Climate and Weather
The constant breeze helps to alleviate the sting of Shimba Hills’ heat and humidity, albeit it never truly cools down. It is warm even at night. You can’t completely avoid the rain here, but it’s more prevalent in October and November, and it can really pour in April and May. Sunny days are common during the dry intervals.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The animals concentrate around local water sources during the drier seasons (December to March and June to September), making them simple to find. You can still monitor them during the rainy season, but it takes more effort because they are more spread. You won’t be bothered by other tourists here at any time of year because the park doesn’t attract large numbers.
Shimba Hills is best visited during the dry months of June to September and December to March. Although the reserve is open all year, visiting during the rains is more difficult. The forest thickens during the wet months, making animal spotting more difficult, and the amount of water means species is more spread.