Shimba Hills National Reserve

Paradise of the Sable Antelope

Beyond the serene sandy beaches of Mombasa, elephants and sable antelopes leisurely patrol the gently rolling and one of the largest coastal rain forest of Shimba Hills National Reserve in Kwale County. This reserve has the last breeding herd of the rare sable antelope in Kenya. The vanishing rain forest antelopes are on the priority list of nationally endangered species in Kenya and the organization is keen on seeing that a national conservation strategy is developed to guide all efforts to conserve the species for posterity. Sable antelopes are highly matriarchal in their social structure and congregate in herds of 15 to 20 individuals and the most dominant female in the herd becomes their leader.

As one of the largest coastal forests in East Africa after Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, this reserve is rich in flora and fauna and hosts the highest density of African elephant in Kenya. Other animal species found in the area are Sable antelope, elephant shrew, bushy tailed mongoose and other small mammals like fruit bats. The forest is an important bird area and is endowed with forest birdlife while the grasslands hold localized species such as red-necked-Spur fowl, Croaking Cisticola and Zanzibar Red Bishop. The scenic Sheldrick Falls and the dense Mwaluganje Forest are also found here along with four campsites.

Attractions & Activities

Are you the adrenaline filled outdoor adventure junkie? Always on the go, up for some adventure? Immerse your senses in the quiet of nature as you flex your muscles hiking on the trails of nature on the hills of Shimba, experience and soak in the cool refreshing pool at the foot of Sheldrick falls. Enjoy camping under a starry wild night and picnicking if you just want to be in the reserve for just a day trip.

Magnificent view of the landscape from the Ocean view point and Pengo the highest point in Shimba hills.