​Best Time To Visit – Shimba Hills NR

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Kenya.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

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

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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.


Shimba Hills Safaris
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

Wildlife Photos

View Photos (16)
+14 Photos Want To Visit

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

Wildlife Photos
+14 Photos

Best Time To Go by Major Park

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Want To Visit Shimba Hills NR?

Shimba Hills Safaris