mbw220

Does anyone have any knowledge about Shimba Hills near Mombasa? How far is it from Mombasa? Are you allowed to drive through the park? Can and how do you arrange for a ranger to take you through the park.? We are in port from 8am until 7pm. Thanks for your insight!

inquest

Shimba hills is a short 45 mins drive from Mombassa. Its possible to do a day trip.There are many safari planners/tour operators in Mombassa. Do some search on tripadvisor for recommendations and reputation.

Another option is that you could probably contact the Shimba Hill Lodge and ask them for a day package which includes game drive,breakfast and lunch,with a pick up and drop from Mombassa.

http://www.shimbalodge.net/index.html

Good luck.

mbw220

Thank you for the suggestions. Do you think this would be a better option than a city tour of Mombassa?

inquest

Most certainly.There is little to do in Mombassa. Safety is also main issue,as cases of mugging of tourists are frequently reported, especially in the old town area.

Shimba is a good option as a day trip just in time for a sundowner,on return, on Diani beach before embarking.

mbw220

What about Tsavo would that be possible as a day trip?

inquest

I did want to suggest East Tsavo,if it wasn't for the direct question your title mentioned.My answer was pertinent to your query about Shimba.

East Tsavo is a 350+ kms round trip from Mombassa.The tarmac road is excellent, would probably take 2 1/2 hrs each way.It lies enroute to Nairobi.The road is a Its a fantastic Np.Plenty of flora & fauna.Eles, Hippos,Rhino and Zebras to Lions, Cheetahs and Leopards the Aruba dam attracts plenty of wildlife to its waters.Its complete in all sense.

Its doable.5 hrs to & from you'll be left with about 3-4 hrs of game drive.Be prepared for a long hectic day.

A call you'll need to take.I would say ' go for it'.

inquest

Sorry.Re-read you original query after posting above.8 am in Mombassa,you could request the tour company to meet and greet( they normally pick clients up at 5 am,for day trips to Tsavo), with packed breakfast & lunch,to be had on the move.The game drive probably cut to 3hrs. Returning to Mombassa before sundown.

Please also do check with traffic situation in Mombassa( which I'm unaware at present),with the tour company.

mbw220

Thank you for your suggestions and Tsavo sounds great. If only we had two days! Think we will just stay with Shimba due to it's close proximity.