Shimba Hills Lodge

Shimba Hills Lodge enjoys a prime location within Shimba Hills National Reserve, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The reserve itself is a protected area spanning approximately 250 square kilometers, featuring an extraordinary mix of coastal rainforest, savannah, and woodland. Located just 33 kilometers from Mombasa, it is easily accessible yet feels like a world away from the bustling coastal city.

Built within a serene forest glade, the lodge is raised on stilts, giving it the appearance of a giant treehouse. This unique architectural design allows guests to experience the wilderness from an elevated perspective while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The wooden walkways and viewing decks provide breathtaking panoramic views of the lush landscape and wildlife that frequents the lodge’s surroundings.

Unique Lodge Design and Accommodation

The Treehouse Experience

The design of Shimba Hills Lodge is truly one of a kind. Elevated on stilts and blending seamlessly with its surroundings, the lodge offers a treehouse-like experience that enhances the sense of adventure. The use of natural materials such as wood and thatch ensures harmony with the environment while providing a rustic yet comfortable atmosphere.

Comfortable and Cozy Rooms

The lodge features well-appointed rooms that offer breathtaking views of the forest and waterhole. Each room is designed to maximize the experience of being close to nature while ensuring guest comfort. Large windows and private balconies allow visitors to wake up to the sounds of birds and the sight of wildlife just outside their doorstep.

Viewing Decks and Walkways

A series of elevated wooden walkways connect different parts of the lodge, leading to various viewing decks strategically placed for wildlife observation. These decks provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and the nearby waterhole, where animals frequently gather to drink. Whether during the golden hours of sunrise or under the moonlit sky, these vantage points offer some of the most memorable wildlife encounters.

Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing – Day and Night

One of the most remarkable aspects of Shimba Hills Lodge is its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, both during the day and at night.

Daytime Safaris and Nature Walks

Guests can embark on guided daytime safaris or nature walks to explore the vast landscape of Shimba Hills. Experienced guides accompany visitors, sharing their knowledge about the region’s diverse ecosystem. The reserve’s rich biodiversity, ranging from towering trees to unique medicinal plants, is brought to life through these informative and interactive excursions.

Nocturnal Adventures – Night Safaris

As the sun sets, the landscape of Shimba Hills transforms, revealing a whole new world of nocturnal creatures. Shimba Hills Lodge offers exclusive night safaris, where guests can witness the elusive leopards, civets, bush babies, owls, and other nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. The thrill of driving through the reserve under the cover of darkness, guided only by the glow of the safari vehicle’s spotlight, makes for an unforgettable experience.

The Waterhole – A Natural Wildlife Attraction

A key feature of Shimba Hills Lodge is its proximity to a strategically placed waterhole. This water source acts as a magnet for wildlife, attracting a variety of species throughout the day and night. From majestic elephants to playful monkeys and elegant antelopes, guests can enjoy front-row seats to nature’s grand spectacle from the comfort of the lodge’s viewing decks. The constant activity around the waterhole ensures that every moment spent here is unique and awe-inspiring.

Activities and Experiences

Beyond wildlife viewing, Shimba Hills Lodge offers a range of activities designed to enhance guests’ experience in the reserve.

Guided Walks to Sheldrick Falls

One of the must-do activities is a guided walk to Sheldrick Falls, a stunning 21-meter-high waterfall nestled deep within the forest. The trek to the falls takes visitors through lush vegetation, where they can spot various wildlife along the way. Upon arrival, guests can enjoy the refreshing mist and even take a dip in the cool waters of the natural pool beneath the falls.

Cultural Encounters

For those interested in learning more about the local culture, visits to nearby villages can be arranged. Guests have the opportunity to interact with the indigenous Digo people, gaining insights into their traditions, crafts, and way of life.

Sundowners and Bush Dinners

For a truly magical experience, Shimba Hills Lodge offers sundowner sessions at scenic spots within the reserve, where guests can enjoy drinks while watching the sunset over the rolling hills. Additionally, bush dinners under the starlit sky provide a unique and intimate dining experience surrounded by nature.

Commitment to Sustainability

Shimba Hills Lodge is dedicated to responsible tourism and environmental conservation. The lodge operates with minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem by using sustainable building materials, reducing waste, and supporting local conservation efforts. By staying at the lodge, guests contribute to the protection of this precious wildlife sanctuary.