Shimba Hills National Reserve Best Time To Visit

By Anthony Ham
Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Excellent Good Fair Poor

A visit to Shimba Hills National Reserve is usually best in the drier months from July to September and January to February. Although the reserve can be visited year-round, visits during the rains are more challenging. The vegetation is thicker in the wet months, which makes animal spotting difficult, and the abundance of water means wildlife tends to be more dispersed.

Best Time July to September and January to February (Best for general wildlife viewing; little rainfall)

High Season December to March and July to October (The park never gets very busy)

Low Season April to June (Low-season rates may apply)

Best Weather July to September and January to February (Best for general wildlife viewing; little rainfall)

Worst Weather April, May and November (Wettest months)

December to March & June to September Drier Seasons

Mostly sunny without much rain
Animals are easier to spot because they gather around water and the grass is shorter
The reserve never gets very busy
Resort hotels, which can be used as a base, get very busy
Scenery is drier and haze in the sky detracts from the views

April to May & October to November Wet Seasons

Everything is green and lush with many flowers
There are very few other visitors
Bird watching is excellent
Overcast days and rain can interfere with your activities
Animals are dispersed and the vegetation is thicker, making them difficult to spot

Best Time To Go by Major Park