B. One Day safari trip, Shimba Hills National Reserve
“Paradise of the Sable antelope”
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.
The Reserve is characterized by rolling hills which are covered in coastal forests which forms an important plant biodiversity area; as over 50% of the 159 rare plants in Kenya are found here including rare cycads and stunning orchids.
The Reserve is home to the last breeding herd of Sable Antelope in Kenya and you should keep a lookout for these large ebony colored antelope with their scimitar shaped horns.
Explore the reserve on guided game drives with a local tour operator. The roads are undulating and steep and a 4×4 vehicle is needed to navigate them. One of the most memorable activities on offer is a guided walk through the forest with a Kenyan Wildlife Service’s Guide – who takes you through the forest to the beautiful Sheldrick Falls.
There are also some great hiking trails you can follow for a pleasant afternoon ramble to the picnic sites and lookout viewpoints.
One Day safari trip, Shimba Hills National Reserve rates per Person
