The Unique Flora and Fauna of Simba Hills

As I landed in Simba Hills, I was amazed by the biodiversity that surrounded me. From savannah grasslands to dense forests, and from freshwater streams to saltwater lagoons, this place is a haven for a wide range of animal and plant species. The reserve is home to over 100 bird species, including the Somali ostrich, crowned eagle, and vulture species. The grasslands are filled with zebras and giraffes, while the dense forests are home to the rare Sykes's monkeys. Strangely enough, I also spotted a herd of cows, which I later learned were kept within the reserve by the local Maasai community as part of their tradition. Apart from its unique flora and fauna, Simba Hills also has an interesting history. The nearby Shimba Hills Lodge has been around since 1903, and was once used by colonialists as a retreat from the heat of the coast. I spent hours examining the geology of the area, with its rocky outcrops and limestone cliffs. Compared to the other national parks and reserves I have visited in Eastern Africa, Simba Hills is unique and definitely worth a visit.