Overnight Safari to Shimba hills from Mombasa

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Introduction

Taking an overnight safari to Shimba Hills from Mombasa offers a compelling escape into Kenya’s lesser-known wildlife haven. This tour promises a mix of game viewing, stunning waterfalls, and the chance to spot rare species like the sable antelope.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the opportunity to enjoy game drives with knowledgeable guides, explore Sheldrick Falls, and relax in comfortable lodges — all packed into just two days. However, travelers should be aware that this tour involves early mornings and a full schedule, which might not suit those seeking a more leisurely pace.

This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers eager for scenic vistas, or anyone wanting a quick, authentic taste of Kenya’s natural beauty without venturing far from Mombasa.

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Key Points

Wildlife spotting includes elephants, leopards, and rare sable antelopes
Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary
The tour combines game drives, waterfall visits, and scenic landscapes
Accommodation at Shimba Hills Lodge offers comfort after long days
The tour is priced at $465 per person, offering good value considering all inclusions
Flexible booking options allow for reservations with payment later

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Detailed Review of the Shimba Hills Overnight Safari

How the Experience Begins

Your adventure starts early, with pickup around 6:30 am in Mombasa. The journey to Shimba Hills is part of the fun — you can choose to cross the ferry or take the newer Dongo Kundu highway, both offering scenic views of the coast and hinterland. The road trip itself is a relaxed way to see Kenya’s landscape evolve from urban to lush rural scenes, with many travelers noting the changing scenery as a highlight.

Within roughly two hours, you’ll arrive at the park and begin your game drive en route to the highlight — Sheldrick Falls. The drive is guided by experienced rangers, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making spotting wildlife and understanding the park’s ecology much more engaging.

Exploring Sheldrick Falls

Reaching Sheldrick Falls is a treat — a waterfall that cascades through dense greenery, perfect for a quick break and some photos. Travelers often comment that this stop provides a refreshing contrast to the game drives, offering a peaceful spot to appreciate nature’s quieter moments.

While reviews highlight that the falls can be busy with other visitors, most appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and enjoy the cool spray of water. Plus, some guides share insights into the local flora and fauna, enriching the experience.

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Lunch and Relaxation at the Lodge

After the waterfall visit, you’ll settle into your accommodation — the Shimba Hills Lodge or similar quality lodging. Guests mention that the lodge provides comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere after a morning of travel and exploration. Lunch is typically served at the lodge, offering a hearty meal that refuels you for the afternoon’s activities.

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Afternoon Game Drive for Big Cats and Big Elephants

Post-lunch, preparations begin for the main game drive. The guides are praised for their instruction and patience — vital when trying to spot elusive animals like leopards or sable antelopes. The drives take place in a customized safari van with a pop-up roof, which offers excellent viewing angles for photography and spotting wildlife.

Most guests note that the guides’ ability to locate animals makes all the difference, with many saying they saw elephants, giraffes, and even leopards during their trip. The sable antelope, a rarer species, is often highlighted as a special sighting, given its limited distribution.

Evening and Night Safari Considerations

While the tour mainly focuses on daytime activities, some reviews mention that the park’s environment is especially suited for night game drives, although these are not explicitly included in the itinerary. If you’re interested in nocturnal wildlife, it’s worth asking the tour operator about adding this option or checking with local guides once in the park.

The Next Morning

The following day kicks off early with another game drive at 6:30 am, aimed at spotting predators like leopards and hunting elephants. The early start is appreciated by many, as it increases the chance of seeing more active wildlife. Guests frequently describe this as the quietest and most rewarding part of the safari, with animals often at their most visible in the cooler morning hours.

After breakfast at the lodge and checkout, you’ll begin your journey back to Mombasa, with plenty of time to reflect on the wildlife encounters and scenic views.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Wildlife diversity is a key feature — from elephants and giraffes to elusive leopards and the rare sable antelope, you’ll have plenty of chances to see Kenya’s iconic fauna. The guides’ expertise is a common thread in reviews, with many travelers praising their ability to find animals and share insightful stories.

The scenic landscapes, especially the waterfalls and lush greenery, add a visual dimension to the adventure that sets it apart from standard game drives. Plus, the comfortable lodging ensures you rest well after day one’s activities, making the experience feel more like a mini-retreat than just a safari.

The Practical Side

With a price tag of $465 per person, the package offers solid value — especially considering all meals, park entrance fees, vehicle, and guide services are included. The tour’s logistics are smooth; pickup and drop-off in Mombasa are seamless, which saves travelers the hassle of arranging transport. The use of a pop-up roof safari van enhances game viewing, especially for keen photographers.

While drinks and beverages are not included, most guests mention that local options at the lodge are reasonably priced. The flexible booking policy — “reserve & pay later” — is a helpful feature, allowing you to lock in your spot without immediate payment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits those wanting an immersive wildlife experience without the long, multi-day commitment. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a taste of Kenya’s fauna and scenery. If you’re a wildlife photographer or just love spending time outdoors, you’ll appreciate the guided game drives and scenic stops.

However, if you prefer a slow-paced holiday or are sensitive to early mornings, this might feel a little rushed. Still, for most, the combination of scenic waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and knowledgeable guides makes this a worthwhile adventure.

The Sum Up

This overnight safari to Shimba Hills from Mombasa offers a well-rounded experience combining game drives, scenic waterfalls, and comfortable accommodations. The inclusion of expert guides makes a significant difference, helping you maximize wildlife sightings and providing educational insights along the way.

At $465 per person, the trip delivers good value, considering the full range of activities and logistics handled for you. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a compact but authentic safari experience that captures the essence of Kenya’s coastal wildlife.

While early mornings and full days might not suit everyone, those willing to rise with the sun will be rewarded with captivating wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. This tour balances adventure, comfort, and natural beauty — a solid option for a quick Kenyan safari fix.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The package covers 1 night accommodation, all meals, park entrance fees, transportation in a safari van with a pop-up roof, pickup and drop-off in Mombasa, and bottled water during the safari.

Are drinks and beverages included?
No, drinks and beverages are not included, but you can purchase local options at the lodge or park.

What time do the game drives start?
The main game drives begin early, around 6:30 am, allowing you to catch animals when they are most active.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the early mornings and full days might be more suitable for older children who enjoy wildlife and outdoor activities.

How long is the journey from Mombasa?
It takes roughly 2 hours to reach Shimba Hills, depending on traffic and chosen route.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, there’s an option to reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
Elephants, giraffes, and leopards are common sightings, with rare opportunities to see sable antelopes.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the experience includes the assistance of knowledgeable guides who enhance your chances of wildlife sightings and provide valuable insights.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this safari aligns with your travel style, offering real insights into what you can expect and how to get the most value from your trip.