A densely forested coastal park, the reserve is made up of rainforest and grassland. Inland from Diani Beach, Shimba Hills is a good place for a short safari or a family safari.

The park is mainly visited for its large population of forest elephants, with an estimated 700 individuals in the park. It is the only place in Kenya where you can spot the stately sable antelope.

Other species include warthogs, baboons, vervet monkeys, buffalo and some giraffes which were introduced as well as being an important area for butterflies and birds.

Half and full day safaris can be organised from local beach resorts south of Mombasa.