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Full Day Shimba Hills Safari from Diani Beach

Private Day Tour to Shimba Hills National Reserve with Lunch at Green Safari Lodge or Shimba Hills Treetop Lodge

If you are looking for a short yet rewarding safari from Diani Beach, the Full Day Shimba Hills Safari offers the perfect combination of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and relaxation—all within a short drive from the coast. This experience is ideal for travelers who want a genuine safari adventure without spending multiple nights away from their beach resort.

Located just 45 minutes from Diani Beach, Shimba Hills National Reserve is one of Kenya’s most scenic and biologically rich coastal forests. With rolling hills, lush vegetation, waterfalls, and rare wildlife species, this safari provides a refreshing alternative to longer inland safaris while still delivering exceptional wildlife viewing.

This professionally guided day safari from Diani Beach is perfect for couples, families, photographers, and travelers seeking a high-quality safari experience within a single day.

Why Choose a Shimba Hills Safari from Diani Beach?

Shimba Hills National Reserve offers a unique safari experience distinct from Kenya’s savannah parks. It is especially famous for:

• The rare sable antelope, found in few places in Kenya
• Dense coastal rainforest and rolling green hills
• Scenic viewpoints overlooking the Indian Ocean
• Beautiful waterfalls such as Sheldrick Falls
• Fewer crowds compared to larger national parks

A Shimba Hills safari from Diani Beach is ideal if you want an immersive wildlife experience without long driving hours, making it perfect for families, honeymooners, and short-stay visitors.

Safari Overview

Safari Type: Full Day Safari
Destination: Shimba Hills National Reserve
Starting Point: Diani Beach
Duration: Full Day (Approx. 8–9 hours)
Transport: Private 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser
Lunch Venue: Green Safari Lodge or Shimba Hills Tree Lodge
Ideal For: Couples, families, photographers, and nature lovers

Full Day Shimba Hills Safari Itinerary

Morning: Pick-Up from Diani Beach

Your safari adventure begins early in the morning with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or resort in Diani Beach.

• 07:00 hrs: Pick-up by your professional safari driver-guide in a private 4x4 Land Cruiser
• Scenic drive through coastal villages and forested landscapes
• Brief stop at the park gate for registration and entry formalities

The drive to Shimba Hills National Reserve takes approximately 45–60 minutes, making it one of the most accessible safari destinations from Diani Beach.

Morning Game Drive in Shimba Hills National Reserve

Upon entering the reserve, your safari begins immediately with a guided game drive through the rolling hills and dense forest.

Wildlife commonly seen includes:

• Sable antelope (Shimba Hills is the only place in Kenya where they are found)
• Giraffes
• Elephants
• Buffaloes
• Bushbuck and duiker
• Numerous bird species, including hornbills and sunbirds

The cooler morning hours offer the best opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat. Your experienced guide will share insights about the ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and conservation efforts in the reserve.

Scenic Stop at Sheldrick Falls (Optional Walk)

One of the highlights of the Shimba Hills safari is a guided nature walk to Sheldrick Falls.

• Enjoy a short guided forest walk accompanied by a ranger
• Admire the cascading waterfall and lush surroundings
• Opportunity for photography and relaxation
• Ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers

(The walk is optional and subject to weather and park regulations.)

Lunch at Green Safari Lodge or Shimba Hills Tree Lodge

After the morning game drive, you will proceed to your selected lodge for lunch:

Option 1: Green Safari Lodge

A peaceful eco-lodge offering panoramic views of the Shimba Hills forest. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch in a tranquil natural setting.

Option 2: Shimba Hills Tree Lodge

A unique elevated lodge overlooking a watering hole, allowing you to observe wildlife as you enjoy your meal.

Lunch is served in a relaxed environment and includes a selection of local and international dishes.

Afternoon Game Drive & Scenic Viewpoints

After lunch, continue with a relaxed afternoon game drive through different sections of the reserve.

Highlights include:

• Scenic viewpoints overlooking the coastal plains and Indian Ocean
• Rolling hills and open grasslands
• Additional wildlife sightings depending on the season

Your guide will take time to explore less-visited areas, ensuring a peaceful and personalized safari experience.

Return to Diani Beach

• 15:30 – 16:00 hrs: Begin your return journey to Diani Beach
• Enjoy the scenic drive back through rural villages and coastal landscapes
• Late Afternoon: Arrival at your hotel or resort in Diani Beach

End of Safari Services

Why Choose Felessy Safaris for Your Shimba Hills Safari?

• Experienced local safari specialists
• Professional, English-speaking driver-guides
• Modern 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roof
• Personalized service and flexible itineraries
• Excellent knowledge of Shimba Hills ecosystem
• Trusted by international travelers

Best Time to Visit Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills is a year-round destination, but the best times are:

• June – October: Dry season, excellent wildlife viewing
• January – March: Warm weather and lush landscapes
• April – May: Fewer visitors, greener scenery, great for photography

Book Your Shimba Hills Safari from Diani Beach Today

Whether you are visiting Kenya for a short holiday or seeking a relaxing nature escape, this Full Day Shimba Hills Safari from Diani Beach offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and comfort.

📩 Contact Felessy Safaris today to customize your safari, confirm availability, or combine this tour with a multi-day safari from Diani Beach.