5 Safari National Parks to Visit Around Mombasa Kenya
There are so many reasons to visit Mombasa, be it for a pampering vacation on the superb Indian ocean beaches, the aromatic markets, the UNESCO world heritage site- Fort Jesus, or even to enjoy the magic of this Swahili-cultured ancient city.
Being one of the most visited destinations in Kenya, Mombasa is a place of unimaginable beauty that offers exciting experiences to its visitors. However, Mombasa’s safari opportunities are less widely known. Alongside the stunning beaches, Mombasa and its environs is home to world-class national parks and sanctuaries, the perfect place to experience an authentic Kenyan safari.
There is even an option of a marine safari in the excellent preserved marine life. Here are some safari national parks to visit around Mombasa, Kenya.
Shimba Hills National Reserve
Shimba Hills National Reserve is one of the best wildlife reserves around Mombasa. Located southwest of the city, only 60km from Mombasa, it is the ideal place for a day safari. The reserve is home to one of East Africa’s most extensive coastal forests. Shimba Hills is rich in flora and fauna and hosts the highest density of African elephants in Kenya.
Other animal species found in the area are Sable antelope, elephant shrew, bushy-tailed mongoose, and other small mammals like fruit bats. The woodland is rich in forest birdlife, while the grasslands are home to isolated species such as red-necked spurfowl, Croaking Cisticola, and Zanzibar Red Bishop.
Shimba Hills national reserve offers excellent game drives and even a sundowner experience on pengo hill.
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Taita hills wildlife sanctuary is another fantastic destination to enjoy a wildlife safari in Mombasa. The conservancy derives its name from the surrounding clusters of hills. Taita hills wildlife sanctuary is a private community sanctuary with forested hills bordering the savannah grasslands, not far from the arid plains of Tsavo.
In a game drive, you will probably see elephants, lions’ cheetahs, and klipspringer. The sanctuary is also home to various birds that attract so many visitors. The topography is mountainous, offering breathtaking landscape views of Mt Kilimanjaro.
Tsavo West National Park
Tsavo West National park is one of Kenya’s best National Parks. Located just a few hours from Mombasa, this park is another fantastic safari destination. The national park encompasses an area of 9,065 sq. km, making it smaller than its sister park, Tsavo East National park.
Tsavo West is more popular because of its stunning landscapes. Fascinating rock formations and lava tubes dominate the area. Because of its mountainous and diverse landscape, Tsavo West offers an authentic Kenyan safari and wildlife endeavor.
On your safari to Tsavo west, expect to sport the Big 5, giraffes, buffalos, and hippopotamus. Birdwatchers also have plenty to be excited about, with over 500 species of birds found within Tsavo west national park.
Tsavo East national park
Tsavo East National Park is a must-see for anybody visiting Mombasa. It’s one of Kenya’s best parks. The sights of dust-red elephants wallowing, rolling, and spraying one other with the midnight blue waters of the palm-shaded Galana River, is one of the best images to experience here.
Additionally, the 300-kilometer-long yatta plateau is another feature to experience in Tsavo East National Park. Being one of the largest national parks in Kenya, Tsavo East National park is home to most of the country’s larger mammals, including red elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, hippopotamus, crocodiles, waterbucks, lesser Kudu, and gerenuk, as well as 500 kinds of birds.
At the same time, on your beach vacation in Diani or Watamu, plan a two or 3-day safari to Tsavo East National park and experience the best Kenyan safari.
Mombasa Marine National Park
Going on a safari near Mombasa is about more than seeing lions, elephants, and other animals grazing on the savannah. The Mombasa marine national park and reserve is one of Kenya’s most beautiful marine parks. The national reserve covers around 200 kilometers and is characterized by sandy beaches, palm trees, azure seas, and many other features making it the perfect destination for your marine safari.
In addition, the wonderfully preserved coral reefs are ideal for diving and snorkeling in pursuit of dolphins, turtles, and other marine life. A safari in the Mombasa Marine national park is among the fascinating things to do in Mombasa.
It is possible to enjoy a beach and safari holiday. Contact us today to plan your memorable African safari while still on your beach vacation.
