The Shimba Hills National Reserve is a distinct biome on the Kenyan coast, a rare mosaic of coastal rainforest, open woodland, and rolling grasslands rising to over 450 metres above sea level.
Shimba Hills Green Safari Lodge is positioned on a prominent escarpment inside the 300-square-kilometre reserve, providing commanding views across the forest canopy towards the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary.
Location and Access to Shimba Hills Green Safari Lodge
As the lodge is located within the Shimba Hills National Reserve, all guests enter via the main park gate and are subject to the standard Kenya Wildlife Service conservation fees. The most common point of access is the Diani Beach resort area, with the 35-kilometre transfer taking approximately 45 minutes.
This journey begins on sealed coastal roads before transitioning to the graded murram tracks inside the reserve. The lodge's internal position is a strategic benefit, reducing transit time and allowing for game drives during the optimal viewing hours of early morning and late afternoon.
Lodge Architecture and Guest Safety at Shimba Hills Green
The main lodge building uses local stone and timber in an open-plan design that merges the reception, lounge, and dining areas. This central structure flows out onto an expansive stone terrace that functions as the primary wildlife observation deck.
Paved and illuminated pathways connect the main building to separate accommodation blocks. A secure perimeter fence encloses the entire guest area, a critical safety feature that allows guests to walk between their rooms and the central facilities after dark without requiring an escort.
Room and Suite Options at Shimba Hills Green Safari Lodge
Shimba Hills Green Safari Lodge provides accommodation in solidly constructed rooms and suites, moving away from the classic canvas tent model. The design philosophy prioritises durability, comfort, and harmony with the natural environment over elaborate luxury.
This approach aligns with the lodge's eco-conscious principles and solidifies its position within the mid-range safari market, offering a comfortable and secure base for exploring the reserve.
Standard Forest View Rooms
The Standard Forest View Rooms constitute the majority of the lodge's inventory. Each room is a permanent structure with a private balcony facing directly into the coastal forest.
The interiors are functional, featuring timber furniture, effective mosquito netting over the beds, and cooling from ceiling fans and cross-ventilation through screened windows. The en-suite bathrooms provide shower facilities and essential amenities.
- Private en-suite bathroom with a hot water shower
- Mosquito netting suspended over all beds
- A small writing desk and chair
- Private balcony with outdoor seating
- Ceiling fan for climate control
Electricity Supply and Internet Access
The lodge generates its own electricity using a timed generator system. This provides reliable power during scheduled periods, typically in the early morning for several hours and again from the late afternoon through to the evening.
This schedule is sufficient for charging cameras, phones, and other essential devices. Guests should note that 24-hour power is not available in the rooms and plan their charging accordingly.
A Wi-Fi connection is available in the main public lounge and dining area. The service is suitable for sending emails and basic messaging but does not support high-bandwidth activities like streaming.
Safari Activities and Wildlife of the Shimba Hills
Game drives at Shimba Hills offer a different experience to those on the open savannah. The dense foliage of the coastal forest makes wildlife spotting more challenging and rewarding.
The reserve is the last remaining habitat in Kenya for the endangered Sable Antelope, and the lodge's guides possess expert knowledge in tracking the resident herds. Other common sightings include elephant, giraffe, buffalo, and an abundance of forest bird species and butterflies not easily seen elsewhere in the country.
A popular excursion is the guided walk to Sheldrick Falls. A short game drive from the lodge leads to the trailhead, from where a steep 2-kilometre trail descends through a forested gorge to the waterfall's base.
The return journey is a strenuous ascent, requiring a good level of physical fitness. For guest safety, this activity is always accompanied by an armed Kenya Wildlife Service ranger. All transport and arrangements for the walk are organised directly at the lodge.
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Classification | Mid-Range Eco Lodge |
| Location | Inside Shimba Hills National Reserve |
| Guest Security | Fully Fenced Compound |
| Power Supply | Timed Generator (Scheduled Hours) |
| Key Wildlife | Sable Antelope, Elephant, Forest Birds |
Who Should Choose Shimba Hills Green Safari Lodge
Shimba Hills Green Safari Lodge is an excellent choice for travellers looking to add a unique coastal forest experience to a traditional savannah safari. Its fenced compound provides a secure environment, making it particularly suitable for families with children.
The specific focus on the rare Sable Antelope and the specialised ecosystem appeals to return visitors to Kenya or those with a keen interest in biodiversity.
The property is less suited to travellers who require constant power and high-speed internet, but for its target audience, the lodge delivers a valuable and authentic safari experience.
