Holiday Reviews
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same trip can have different views!
Read our review policy
Shimba Hills accommodation, Tree House, independent reviews
Reviewed 10 Sep 2009 by Anne May![]() | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Our stay at the Tree House for two nights during our holiday was absolutely first class. Fantastic views of the Sable Valley could be seen from our very private balcony. We saw elephants, baboons and fish eagles pass close by, not forgetting the odd praying mantis. Watching the sun setting across the valley while sharing a very bubbly jacuzzi with my husband and a glass of sparkling wine was one of the most memorable moments. We wheeled the four poster bed out onto the balcony and slept under the stars both nights which was very romantic. We heard the bushbabies calling after dark but none came to visit, despite leaving a glass of wine and sugar bowl out to tempt one to come near. Our butler Mulei was very welcoming and a great character, we want to thank him for doing such a great job. The food was also of a very high standard and the presentation was superb.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If there is a problem with the hot water just order lots of tea and use the hot water in the flask to get a hot wash. If anyone tries to help you with your bags at Nairobi or Mombasa airport either firmly say 'no!' and hold on to your luggage firmly, or be prepared to give them payment. Take Kenyan shillings in smaller denominations for tips. Take pens, books, stationary to help schools in areas local to where you stay; sweets for the children.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
We visited a Masai village and paid £20 to the Chief who then showed us around and answered questions. We went inside one of their huts which are made of wood and cow dung (built by the women). We were allowed to take photographs, join a Masai dance and were also shown how to make fire. We purchased some jewellery too and all money they receive helps their community.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We were looked after from start to finish. Cannot fault the hospitality. Our own personal safari guide, called Kenya, was brilliant and allowed us plenty of time to take photographs. The quality accommodation, even our tent at the Tarhi Camp, was very comfortable. Fantastic views all round!! The Cove Retreat was very relaxing, the pool is a nice size and the restaurant is very cosy.
Reviewed 15 Oct 2009 by William Howard![]() | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The boat trip we made out to sea in the fishing boat and viewing 10-12 Humpback whales courting and migrating up the coastline.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take small denominations of shillings for tipping which is a way of life. Not too many clothes but plenty of mosquito products. If you have any snorkel and mask.
Malerone for the mosquito malaria NOT the cheap alternatives.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. The boardwalk was good but would benefit from being completed with a bit more finance. All people employed were local. Food was local.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It really was a relaxing and complete holiday. The people that we met were all fairly like minded. NO local traders hassling you, so if you like nightlife, music and busy life DONT go here, really not that sort of holiday. Chilled and easy going with lovely local people. A great experience well organised and planned for you by Justin and the others.
Reviewed 12 Sep 2008 by Mark Langston![]() | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Sarah's face when we arrived! I kept our two nights at the tree house a secret, all she knew was that we were going on our honeymoon. Of course I'd used the name of the company to wind her up into thinking all sorts of things, white water rafting, sky diving etc. She was speechless when she arrived and saw the beautiful room and view, realising then that there would be just the two of us. It certainly went down well after the hustle and bustle of the wedding. The food was fantastic throughout, and the most enjoyable part was sipping champagne, in the jacuzzi and watching the sun set.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
You have to be comfortable with being close to nature, and you have to enjoy each others company! That’s it, there's nothing to dislike. The rooms and location were fantastic and the food and service were second to none. We are normally quite sociable and prefer to be around other people but we both said this was the best part of our wedding, absolutely fantastic. Thanks again to the guy's who looked after us so well.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
It was hard to tell what the benefits were as we didn't go far during our stay. However, due to the drop in tourism this year, we felt even more welcome everywhere in Kenya. The people are always so good to you but as you start to take the conversations deeper you realise how much of a struggle this year has been for them. There was certainly a low impact on the environment with the use of local materials and solar power for some of the electricity.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, just what we needed! We have never been better looked after and pampered. I'm in the goodbooks for the first few weeks of marriage, I'm making the most of it while it lasts. I'm hopeful that we will get back to Kenya in the next couple of years and if so, a special treat to the Tree Houses will definitely be in order. Thanks again.
Reviewed 19 Nov 2007 by Beth McPherson![]() | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it - particularly the wonderful service at Kinondo Retreat, the jacuzzi and the bushbaby at Sable Treehouse, and the treehouse and its location at The Cove. Another highlight was diving with Dolphins on the Pilli Pipa dhow trip - amazing.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Try staying in more than one place during the week - it gives you more of a feel for the area and makes the holiday feel longer too.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Absolutely perfect.









Reviewed 10 Sep 2009 by Anne May

