Things to Do in Shimba Hills: Sheldrick Falls Walk, Game Drives, Birding and Viewpoints

A day in Shimba Hills offers a surprising mix of wildlife, forest and scenery, and it is easily combined with a stay at the coast. You can spend a few hours on a drive or a full day exploring.

The list below follows a typical day, from dawn on the ridges to a picnic lunch and afternoon walk.

This guide is part of our Uganda park trails and activities guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Game Drives

Morning drives are best for sable antelope on the grassy ridges and for elephants and buffalo in the open. Ask your guide to include forest edges where small antelope and monkeys appear. See game drives explained for how drives work.

Walk to Sheldrick Falls

A ranger-led walk leads through forest and along streams to a waterfall named after the late David Sheldrick, a founding figure of Kenya’s conservation work. The walk is short but can be muddy, so wear sturdy shoes, and swimming is not usually the aim. To explore the family’s wider conservation work, see the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage page.

Birding and Nature Walks

Coastal forest species, forest edge birds and raptors make the reserve a quiet pleasure for birders, and butterflies and unusual plants reward slow walkers. Guided nature walks are the best way to learn about them. See the East Africa birding guide.

Viewpoints and Picnics

Scenic viewpoints on the hills give long views toward the coast, and designated picnic sites allow you to enjoy a break in cooler air. Photographers will enjoy soft morning light and mist; see safari photography tips.

Culture and Coast Extras

Combine your day with cultural experiences on the coast, such as visits to sacred forests and Swahili heritage sites. Read Swahili coast culture and history and Kenya food and Swahili culture.

Planning Your Visit

A full day is ideal, and a night in the reserve allows dawn viewing. Check the wildlife guide, best time to visit and how to get there to plan.

Responsible Visiting and the Wider Coast

Shimba Hills sits close to farming communities, so wildlife and people share the landscape, and tourism helps to support rangers and conservation. Stay on the trail, keep your distance from elephants, and take away everything you bring in. Pair the reserve with other coastal experiences, from snorkelling and boat trips to Swahili town heritage, as described in the Diani Beach guide. Together they make a balanced holiday that includes sea, forest and wildlife in one short journey.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team