A Rare Eco-Tourism Retreat with Cottages in Coastal Kenya
Tucked away in the heart of Shimba Hills National Reserve, Samsara is a rare gem — 35 acres of pristine indigenous forest offering an extraordinary opportunity to build something deeply rooted in nature. Whether your vision is an intimate eco-lodge, a forest wellness retreat, or a private nature sanctuary, this property provides the space, setting, and soul to bring it to life.
Surrounded by towering trees and thriving biodiversity, Samsara is located within the protected buffer zone of one of East Africa's most ecologically significant landscapes. Here, buffalo graze freely near the cottages, rare birds call from the canopy, and butterflies flit across sun-dappled clearings. With over 1,100 species of plants, including rare and endemic varieties, Shimba Hills is also home to Kenya's only wild population of sable antelope.
Property Features
- 35 acres of freehold land within the Shimba Hills protected reserve buffer
- Two charming, semi-furnished self-contained cottages
- Solar power and rainwater catchment systems for off-grid living
- Securely fenced and gated for safety and privacy
- Spectacular views of indigenous forest and the distant Usambara Mountains
These cottages, designed to blend naturally into their environment, are perfect for immediate use — either as private retreats or as base accommodation during future development.
Why Shimba Hills?
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Important Bird Area (IBA), Shimba Hills is one of Kenya's most remarkable biodiversity hotspots — a rare mix of coastal rainforest, grassland, and woodland ecosystems.
Highlights include:
- Kenya's only sable antelope population
- Rare and endemic plant species, including Cola shimbaensis and ancient cycads
- Prolific birdlife: green-headed oriole, Fischer's turaco, East Coast akalat
- Unique reptiles, butterflies, and forest-dwelling mammals
- Growing conservation initiatives by Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and The Aspinall Foundation
This environment makes Shimba Hills ideal for eco-tourism, research, rewilding, wellness, and experiential travel.
Project Potential
This exceptional property is perfectly suited for:
- A luxury eco-lodge or treehouse resort
- A forest-based wellness retreat (yoga, meditation, forest bathing)
- A conservation education centre or research facility
- A birdwatching or forest safari base
- A creative residency for artists, writers, or digital detox retreats
Location & Accessibility
- 40 minutes from Diani Beach (Kenya's premier coastal destination)
- Less than 2 hours from Mombasa, via the new Dongu Kundu Bypass (no Likoni ferry)
- Convenient access via Ukunda Airstrip, now upgraded for larger aircraft
Samsara isn't just land — it's an invitation to create something meaningful.
A place to protect, to connect, and to regenerate.
Contact us today to arrange a private viewing and explore the full potential of this wild, beautiful sanctuary.