Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya? If you're planning to go to Shimba Hills National Reserve, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Shimba Hills National Reserve
  2. Important essentials for Shimba Hills National Reserve
  3. Activities for Shimba Hills National Reserve
  4. Shimba Hills National Reserve in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Shimba Hills National Reserve in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Shimba Hills National Reserve in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Shimba Hills National Reserve in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Shimba Hills National Reserve in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Shimba Hills National Reserve in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Shimba Hills National Reserve in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Shimba Hills National Reserve in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Shimba Hills National Reserve in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Shimba Hills National Reserve in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Shimba Hills National Reserve in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Shimba Hills National Reserve in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya

Based on the climate and weather in Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Shimba Hills National Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya by month

January

January can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the right type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

February

February here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

March

March for Shimba Hills National Reserve is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

April

If you are traveling to Shimba Hills National Reserve in April, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

May

May here is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in Shimba Hills National Reserve is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

July

July is hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August in Shimba Hills National Reserve is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

September

Traveling to Shimba Hills National Reserve in September, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

October

October is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

November

Traveling to Shimba Hills National Reserve in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

December

If you go to Shimba Hills National Reserve in December, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Kenya has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Shimba Hills National Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya

Shimba Hills National Reserve, located in Kwale County, on the south coast of Kenya, is one of the country's most underrated attractions. It is a perfect destination for those who want to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Kenya, breathtaking landscapes and learn about the Kenyan culture. Shimba Hills National Reserve is the perfect location for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and hikers. With that in mind, let us learn more about the top tourist attractions in Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya.

1. Sheldrick Falls

Standing at a height of about 25 meters, Sheldrick Falls is a perennial waterfall that plunges into a natural freshwater pool. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green vegetation and a cool breeze that is perfect for a picnic or relaxation. You can also take a dip in the pool, but watch out for the crocodiles and hippos.

2. Sable Antelope Sanctuary

Sable Antelopes are among the rarest and most beautiful animals in Kenya, and the Sable Antelope Sanctuary in Shimba Hills is the perfect place to see them. You can also come across different wildlife species such as elephants, buffaloes, and several species of primates.

3. Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary

Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary that is home to the largest elephant population in Kenya. The Sanctuary covers over 60 kilometers of land and features lush green vegetation, streams, and riverbeds. It is also home to several other rare wildlife species, including leopards, sable antelopes, hyenas, and more.

4. Shifoga Hill

Shifoga Hill is one of the most recognized attractions in the Shimba Hills National Reserve. The hill is home to an interconnected cave system that provides a perfect habitat for bats. You can take a guided tour to the caves to witness the beauty of the caves and the habitats of the bats.

5. Leopard’s Rock

Leopard’s Rock is a famous viewpoint in Shimba Hills National Reserve that provides a panoramic view of the reserve's picturesque landscapes. You can observe the vast greenery and glimpse various wildlife species. The rock formation is stunning, and from atop, one can appreciate the beauty of the landscape.

6. Bird Watching

Shimba Hills National Reserve is the perfect place for bird watching. The reserve is home to over 300 species of birds, including rare and endemic species such as the Sokoke Pipit and Fischer's Turaco. The rich diversity of these species makes bird watching a must-do activity in the Shimba Hills National Reserve.

In conclusion, Shimba Hills National Reserve is a hidden gem in Kenya, featuring breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna, and a rich cultural heritage. With so many amazing tourist attractions to discover, Shimba Hills National Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Kenya.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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