Half-Day Shimba Hills National Reserve Trip

Mombasa, Kenya

Half-Day Shimba Hills National Reserve Trip

Mombasa, Kenya

Tour Overview

Funzi Island is a lovely settlement located in Kwale County. It is a set of four charming mangrove-covered islands. The main island is the only one with permanent inhabitants. It is home to approximately 1500 people sustained by agriculture and fishing. The island is a charming location ideal for a day trip. If you want fantastic cuisine, lovely sandy beaches, and a quiet, serene environment, then this day trip to Funzi island is ideal for you. It is not known to tourists, so it is an ideal quiet getaway.

Tour Itinerary

We will pick you up from your Hotel/cottage at 7.00 am. You will drive to Ramisi River, where you will go on a canoe trip. You will spot multiple types of birds flying overhead, making this trip a lot more romantic. Vegetation density absorbs noise from other areas making this excursion surprisingly quiet. Therefore, it is perfect for couples on bonding trips.

After the boat trip, you will stop on the sandbank, which gives you access to one of the most beautiful swimming spots on the island. This little piece of paradise gives you access to warm water, bright sand, and bird calls to make your swim more relaxing.

You will see the famous Funzi ‘Lost Paradise’ sandbars at low tide. Therefore, you can try your hand at sand bathing.

You can also go creek fishing. There are multiple creeks on the island, and you can go fishing at one of them. The shallow calm waters are ideal for catching healthy fish, which you can release or cook up for an authentic experience.

The locals can take you on their canoes, where you can learn about their fishing techniques. It is a genuine experience that will create an amazing memory.

Later, we will go to the Funzi Island village. During this trip, you can take time to interact with the locals. You can learn about how they survive without these modern-day advancements. You will visit major spots in the village, including the witch doctors who cure the villagers of all ailments.

Additionally, you can try some of the local food and drink. Do not skip out on ‘wali wa mnazi,’ rice prepared with coconut milk from the coconuts that grow on the island. During your iterations, you can also get lovely souvenirs.

The locals make baskets, hats, crafts, artifacts, jewelry, and even traditional clothes such as lesos. These are ideal souvenirs to remember your trip. And all profits go to keeping the villagers thriving. Then, the driver will take you back to your hotel/cottage arriving at 5.00 pm.

What to Bring?

Sandals, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a towel, a hat, and a pair of sunglasses.

Ramisi River

The Ramisi River has stunning waters surrounded by mangroves and exceptional birdlife.

Funzi Island Village

The Funzi Island village tour is your opportunity to travel back in time. Funzi village has no electric wires, street lights, roads, or central water supply. Life is unspoiled by the complications of modernity, and it is the ideal place to unwind.

Tour Gallery

Included Amenities

  • Ample wildlife and landscape photography chances.
  • Guided game drives with experienced drivers.
  • Souvenir stops for memorable mementos.
  • Meals, including Kenyan-style cuisine.
  • Park Entry and Concession Fees
  • Game drives
  • Airstrip transfers

Excluded Amenities

  • Champagne and premium house drinks
  • Government levies
  • Others not listed in the includes

Tour Overview

A verdant escape awaits at the Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya’s largest coastal forest. Hike through ancient rainforests, spot iconic sable antelopes, and unwind by cascading Sheldrick Falls – all within a tranquil day trip from the Kenyan coast.

The driver will pick you from your Cottage/Hotel in Mombasa at 7.00 am. Your driver will take you to Shimba Hills National Reserve through a scenic 2-hour drive. You will arrive, and we will pay park fees for you so you can go on a game drive with a local operator. On the game drive, expect to see herds of elephants. Shimba Hills National Reserve is the only place you will see the Sable Antelope. You will also drive to the magnificent Sheldrick Falls for a spectacular view of the majestic waterfall. Expect to see dense rainforest featuring a diversity of plant species. Wildlife interactions will be more authentic and adventurous.

There are many picnic areas on the grounds, so you will picnic for lunch surrounded by beautiful trees and shade. Then, your driver will take you back to your accommodations in Mombasa in the late afternoon. But be sure to stop by the gift shop for a souvenir before you leave.

Shimba Hills National Reserve

Shimba Hills National Reserve is a 300km squared land of dense rainforest protected by the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS). Wildlife encounters here are more spectacular, thanks to the dense forest.

The reserve hosts herds of elephants and the rarely-seen Sable Antelope. It also has diverse plant species. Shimba Hills also hosts the remarkable Sheldrick Falls, named after the late David Sheldrick. David Sheldrick founded the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

What to bring?

Your day will be met with warm tropical temperatures since Shimba Hills is suited slightly inland from the coast. Therefore, bring sun protection in the form of sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats.

You should also bring a camera to take pictures at the waterfall and to capture the stills of the animals. Wear light clothing as temperatures rise in the afternoon.

Tour Gallery

Included Amenities

  • Ample wildlife and landscape photography chances.
  • Guided game drives with experienced drivers.
  • Souvenir stops for memorable mementos.
  • Meals, including Kenyan-style cuisine.
  • Park Entry and Concession Fees
  • Game drives
  • Airstrip transfers

Excluded Amenities

  • Champagne and premium house drinks
  • Government levies
  • Others not listed in the includes

Tour Booking Form

First Name
Last Name
Email Address
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Travel Date
Adults*
Children*
Total Cost
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