Mombasa, Kenya’s coastal gem, is not only famous for its stunning beaches and rich Swahili culture, but it also serves as an ideal gateway to some of the country’s best wildlife experiences. Located near several prime national parks and game reserves, Mombasa provides an excellent starting point for safari enthusiasts looking to explore Kenya’s extraordinary biodiversity. From vibrant savannahs teeming with wildlife to the lush coastal forests and wetlands, the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya, offer a wide range of safari experiences that showcase the heart of Africa’s wildlife.
In this article, we will explore the top parks and game reserves around Mombasa, each offering unique opportunities to observe Kenya’s incredible wildlife, including the “Big Five,” giraffes, zebras, and countless bird species. You could be an experienced safari traveler or going on the first safari level, the nearby reserves and parks in Mombasa will certainly give you a safari experience that is bound to have no equal-comparison.
1. Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve, located about 33 kilometers from Mombasa, is one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya. It’s a hidden gem that’s often overshadowed by Kenya’s more famous parks, but it offers an incredible safari experience with fewer crowds. The reserve hosts a great variety of wildlife and is a great place to have a safari with a mix of coastal forest, savannah, and grassland habitats.
Visitors to Shimba Hills are attracted by a big population of the endangered Sable antelope found there. Other species found in the park also include elephants, buffalo, giraffes, as well as various species of antelopes. A great birdwatching destination, more than 100 species of birds can be found on the forested hills. The best part of visiting shimba hills is that there is a beautiful waterfall inside the reserve and it is known as Sheldrick falls. Guided walks provide the opportunity to explore the unique flora and fauna of the area, and game drives across the reserve also provide intimate experiences with wild animals.
2. Tsavo National Park (Tsavo East & Tsavo West)
Tsavo National Park, one of the largest and most famous parks in Kenya, is just a few hours’ drive from Mombasa. The park consists of two parts: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Both sections of Tsavo offer diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife, making it one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya. One attribute that Tsavo is most associated with is its sheer size and dramatic scenery, consisting of steep mountains, volcanic hills, and expansive plains.
Bigger of the two parts, Tsavo East features open savannah, acacia woodlands, and river forests. The park harbours a captivating collection of animals such as elephants (Tsavo is known to have large herds), lions, cheetahs, leopards, buffaloes, among others. Instead, Tsavo West is a mountainous region with a mix of landscape features such as rocky hills, swamps, and waterholes. Tourists visiting Tsavo West can have a magnificent view of the renowned Mzikenda Springs small pools that flow into the Plush wetlands within the park. Both parks have great game drives, where you can view the wildlife of the park close and personally.
3. Wasini Island
For something a little different, a visit to Wasini Island is an unforgettable experience for nature and wildlife lovers. Located just off the coast of Mombasa, Wasini Island is home to the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park and Reserve, offering a unique safari experience in the Indian Ocean’s rich waters. While Wasini Island is primarily known for its exceptional marine life, it also provides opportunities to observe dolphins, turtles, and vibrant coral reefs, making it one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for those interested in both land and sea safaris.
Kisite-Mpunguti marine reserve is a diving and snorkeling paradise. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Wasini Island are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral gardens. The area is also one of the best spots in Kenya for dolphin watching, with several species frequently spotted in the waters. The tour of the island by boat also provides an opportunity to observe these curious animals in their natural environment. In addition, the island’s local community offers a cultural experience, and a visit here is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the coastal traditions of Kenya.
4. Arabuko Sokoke Forest
Located around 115 kilometers north of Mombasa, Arabuko Sokoke Forest is one of Kenya’s largest and most important coastal forests. This rare ecosystem spanning more than 400 square kilometers is also home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife with endangered species like the Sokoke scops owl, the Aders duiker, and the golden-rumped elephant shrew. Arabuko Sokoke is one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for visitors interested in both wildlife and birdwatching, with over 250 bird species recorded in the forest.
There are also a number of primates found in the forest, which include the Sykes monkeys, and the rare yellow baboon. Arabuko Sokoke is a Biosphere Reserve recognized by the UNESCO and one of the only few spots in East Africa where one can view wildlife in a forest habitat along the coast. The forest provides various activities, such as guided tours on which you can discover the ecosystem and its biodiversity. Birdwatching will also be made available to visitors as the forest hosts various species of migratory birds.
5. Mombasa Marine National Park
While many safari enthusiasts think of terrestrial animals when considering a safari, Mombasa Marine National Park provides a different kind of safari–one beneath the waves. Located just off the coast of Mombasa, this park offers an incredible opportunity to explore Kenya’s coastal marine life, and it’s one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for those who wish to experience marine wildlife and coral reefs.
The park contains beautiful coral gardens, bright fish species and marine life, dolphins, turtles, and seabird species varying. Through snorkeling and diving tours, visitors can also experience the underwater world, by seeing the rich biodiversity of the Indian Ocean. It is a park that is a marine reserve and its serene waters are best suited to those who want to unwind, relax, and appreciate the splendor of the sea. With its unique combination of marine safaris and coastal landscapes, Mombasa Marine National Park is a must-visit for those interested in both land and sea-based wildlife encounters.
6. Shimoni Caves and Slave Trade Centre
For those interested in history and culture alongside their safari experience, a visit to the Shimoni Caves and Slave Trade Centre provides a fascinating glimpse into Kenya’s past. The caves are found some 75 kilometers south of Mombasa, and slave traders used to gather there during the 19 th century, providing an informative glimpse into the dark side of the region. While the caves themselves are not a traditional safari destination, they are an important part of Kenya’s historical and cultural heritage.
A visit to the Shimoni Caves and Slave Trade Centre can be combined with a trip to the nearby Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park. With abundant culture, natural beauty, it serves as an ideal place to visit, whether as a tourist or simply as an observer to both the past and the present. The caves provide guided tours, such that you can find out more about the history of the East African slave trade, with the surrounding landscapes where you can enjoy nature walks and birdwatching.
7. Diani Beach & Kaya Kinondo Forest
Despite its reputation of a perfect white sand and crystal-clear waters, the locale adjacent to the beach has interesting things, especially to those who love wildlife and nature. The Kaya Kinondo Forest, a holy forest reserve, a few miles away, hosts various wildlife species and isolated species of birds. It is one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
Kaya Kinondo Forest is a holy place to the Digo community and it has both cultural and ecological importance. Apes, bush babies, and birds such as the endangered African green pigeon can be found in the forest. Tourists are offered a chance to have a guided trip around the forest of abundant trees to understand the cultural significance of the forest to communities living there. Moreover, marine encounters, such as dolphin and whale watching, are available at Diani Beach.
8. Lake Jipe
Lake Jipe is a beautiful, remote lake located on the border of Kenya and Tanzania, about a four-hour drive from Mombasa. It is a jewel of a lake and ideal for visitors who want a tranquil safari without visiting the crowded parks and reserves. The lake is surrounded by diverse wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, making it one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for nature lovers.
Lake Jipe is part of the Tsavo ecosystem and offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s wetlands, savannah, and forested areas. The Lake has been famous with breathtaking natural beauty and serenity and serves as an excellent site of bird watching, photography and relaxation. It’s a great spot for those seeking a quieter safari experience with the opportunity to explore Kenya’s lesser-known natural wonders.
9. Witu Forest
Located in the Lamu archipelago, Witu Forest is a lesser-known gem in Kenya’s coastal region. It is a great place to watch birds and the forest has over 100 species of birds such as the endangered white-cheeked barbet. Witu Forest is one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination rich in biodiversity and tranquillity.
Witu Forest offers visitors an opportunity to explore lush forest trails, encounter monkeys and other small mammals, and learn about the local conservation efforts to preserve this unique ecosystem. It’s a great location for eco-tourists and wildlife photographers who wish to experience the natural beauty of Kenya’s coastal forests.
10. Mida Creek
Mida Creek, located north of Mombasa, is a coastal wetland that offers exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and exploring diverse ecosystems. The area, which is famous due to mangrove forests, mudflats, and salt marshes, is significant to migratory birds. Mida Creek is one of the best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya for visitors interested in coastal ecosystems and birdlife.
The creek is landed with numerous types of birds, such as flamingos, kingfishers, and raptors. Tourists have the opportunity to indulge in guided mangrove tours, birdwatching tours, and cultural tours to local villages. The peaceful environment and rich biodiversity make Mida Creek an excellent destination for eco-tourism and nature lovers.
Conclusion
Mombasa is not only a coastal paradise, but it also offers a variety of best parks & game reserves for a safari in Mombasa, Kenya, each offering unique experiences for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re drawn to the vast savannahs of Tsavo, the pristine marine life at Wasini Island, or the rich coastal forests of Arabuko Sokoke, the parks and reserves near Mombasa provide an incredible array of safari options. Whether you seek iconic safari experiences or more off-the-beaten-path adventures, Mombasa is the perfect place to explore Kenya’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
