1 Day Shimba Hills Tour
Where Sky Meets Still Waters
Step into a world where the forest hums with ancient secrets and waterfalls whisper tales of time. The Shimba Hills 1-Day Tour is more than a safari—it’s a soulful journey through Kenya’s coastal highlands, where misty woodlands cradle rare wildlife and panoramic cliffs gaze out toward the Indian Ocean.
From the rustle of sable antelope in the underbrush to the rhythmic pulse of Digo drums in a village homestead, every moment is a brushstroke on nature’s living canvas. You’ll hike beneath towering canopies to Sheldrick Falls, dine beside forest echoes, and watch the sun melt into the horizon from Pengo Hill—each experience woven with local warmth and wild wonder.
Whether you’re a curious wanderer, a cultural explorer, or a seeker of serenity, this day invites you to reconnect—with nature, with community, and with yourself
Safari Highlights
- Rare Sable Antelope Sightings Encounter one of Africa’s most elegant and elusive antelopes, found only in Shimba Hills—graceful, horned, and regal in posture
- Elephant Encounters in the Forest Canopy Watch as herds of African elephants navigate the dense woodland, their silent strength a humbling presence beneath the trees
- Birdwatcher’s Paradise Spot over 200 bird species including the African hawk-eagle, green turaco, and palm-nut vulture—each a flash of color and song in the canopy
- Sheldrick Falls Hike Trek through lush forest trails to a 25-meter waterfall cascading into a cool basin—perfect for misty refreshment and forest meditation
- Panoramic Views from Pengo Hill Gaze across the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary and the shimmering Indian Ocean—where land, sky, and sea meet in quiet majesty
Safari Itinerary
Morning: Departure & Forest Awakening
7:30 AM – Depart from Diani/Ukunda
- Private transfer in a safari van with pop-up roof
- Scenic drive through coconut groves and rural villages
- Light breakfast en route (fruit, pastries, Swahili tea)
9:00 AM – Shimba Hills Gate Arrival & Briefing
- Meet KWS ranger or local guide
- Overview of reserve history, flora, and fauna
- Begin forest drive through misty trails
9:30 AM – Safari Game Drive
- Spot rare Sable antelope, elephants, bushbuck, and giraffes
- Birdwatching: African hawk-eagle, hornbills, sunbirds
- Pause at viewpoints overlooking the coastal plains
Midday: Sheldrick Falls & Picni
11:30 AM – Guided Hike to Sheldrick Falls
- 45-minute forest walk with interpretive storytelling
- Discover medicinal plants, butterflies, and sacred fig trees
- Arrive at the 25-meter waterfall for a refreshing mist shower
1:00 PM – Forest Picnic Lunch
- Set up near the falls or at the picnic site
- Locally sourced menu: grilled chicken, vegetable samosas, tropical fruits, fresh juice
- Optional Swahili storytelling or poetry sessio
Afternoon: Cultural Touch & Sunset Views
2:30 PM – Visit to Giriama or Digo Community Homestead
- Learn about traditional crafts, herbal remedies, and homestead architecture
- Optional dance or drumming demonstration
- Opportunity to support local artisans
4:00 PM – Sunset at Pengo Hill Viewpoint
- Panoramic views of Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary and Indian Ocean
- Golden hour photography and quiet reflection
- Fresh coconut or madafu served chilled
Return Journe
5:30 PM – Depart Shimba Hills
- Leisurely drive back to Diani/Ukunda
- Optional stop at Kwale town for souvenirs or snacks
6:30 PM – Drop-off at hotel or beachside location
Safari Includes
- Safari Introduction: Insights into wildlife and the ecosystem from your guide.
- Transportation to and from Mombasa/Diani
- Meals: Full board (lunch) during your stay.
- Park entrance fees to Shimba Hills
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during the safari.
Safari Excludes
- International Flights: Flights to and from Nairobi/Mombasa
- Visa Fees: Any visa requirements for entry into Kenya.
- Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance for medical emergencies.
- Optional Activities: Visits to Maasai villages and hot air balloon rides (available at an extra cost).
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, tips for guides, and any additional personal expenses.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks outside of those provided (water and meals).