The Ark Lodge | Top 10 Unique Safari Lodge in Aberdare National Park, Kenya
About this property
A treetop lodge overlooking a floodlit waterhole in the Aberdare forest.
Overview About this Property
The Ark Lodge, an iconic wildlife viewing lodge set deep within the lush forests of Aberdare National Park, Kenya. Designed in the shape of a ship anchored in the forest, The Ark overlooks a natural waterhole and salt lick that attracts a constant flow of wildlife, offering guests an unforgettable “live safari” experience from the comfort of the lodge. Elephants, buffalo, antelope, and even elusive forest species regularly visit the waterhole, allowing for exceptional game viewing day and night. With its peaceful forest setting, cool mountain climate, and immersive wildlife encounters, The Ark Lodge is perfect for families, nature lovers, photographers, and travellers seeking a distinctive safari experience unlike anywhere else in East Africa.
About the Property
Nestled within the dense montane forests of the Aberdare National Park, The Ark Lodge is uniquely designed to resemble a floating ark, blending seamlessly into its natural surroundings while offering uninterrupted wildlife viewing. The lodge overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick, which serves as a natural gathering point for animals throughout the day and night. Guests can observe wildlife from multiple viewing decks, lounges, and bunkered observation areas, ensuring close-up encounters in complete safety and comfort. The lodge features a warm, rustic interior with wooden finishes, cosy lounges, and panoramic windows that bring the forest experience indoors. With its tranquil atmosphere, cool highland climate, and constant wildlife activity, The Ark offers one of Kenya’s most distinctive safari experiences.
Quick Facts
- Unique safari lodge in Aberdare National Park, Kenya
- Designed in the shape of a ship (“The Ark”)
- Overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick
- Constant wildlife viewing from the lodge
- Multiple viewing decks and observation lounges
- Forest-based safari experience in cool highlands
- Ideal for families and wildlife enthusiasts
- Accessible via Aberdare Country Club transfer point
- Close encounters with elephants, buffalo, and forest species
- Peaceful, immersive nature retreat
Location
The Ark Lodge is located in the heart of the Aberdare National Park, a lush and mountainous region in central Kenya known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. The lodge sits within a protected forest clearing, strategically positioned to overlook a natural waterhole that attracts wildlife throughout the day and night. Guests typically access the lodge via Aberdare Country Club, where they are transferred into the national park by lodge vehicles, enhancing the sense of adventure and exclusivity. The cool highland climate and misty forest environment create a refreshing contrast to Kenya’s savannah parks.
Accommodation
The Ark Lodge offers comfortable and cosy accommodation designed to complement its unique forest setting. Rooms are arranged across multiple decks within the ship-like structure, each offering easy access to viewing areas and communal spaces. Interiors are simple yet warm, featuring wooden furnishings and soft lighting that enhance the lodge’s rustic charm. Many rooms provide direct or partial views of the waterhole, allowing guests to enjoy wildlife sightings from the comfort of their rooms.
Standard Room
Ideal for: Couples, solo travellers, families
Occupancy: Up to 2–3 guests
The Standard Room at The Ark Lodge offers a comfortable and functional stay within the heart of Aberdare National Park. Each room features cosy bedding, an en-suite bathroom, warm wooden interiors, and easy access to the lodge’s viewing decks. Some rooms offer partial or direct views of the waterhole, allowing guests to enjoy wildlife sightings at any time of day or night. The rooms are designed for relaxation and practicality, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of forest exploration.
Luxury Room
Ideal for: Couples, families, wildlife enthusiasts
Occupancy: Up to 2–3 guests
The Luxury Room offers an enhanced stay experience with improved positioning and better views of the waterhole. These rooms feature upgraded furnishings, comfortable seating areas, en-suite bathrooms, and large windows that maximise wildlife viewing opportunities. Guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of elephants, buffalo, and other forest animals directly from their room or nearby observation decks. The Luxury Rooms provide a more refined and immersive experience within the unique setting of The Ark Lodge.
Dining
Dining at The Ark Lodge is a warm and communal experience, with meals served in a cosy dining area overlooking the forest. Guests enjoy buffet-style cuisine featuring a mix of international and local dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients. The dining experience is complemented by the lodge’s unique setting, where wildlife sightings often continue uninterrupted during meals. Tea, coffee, and light refreshments are available throughout the day, enhancing the relaxed forest atmosphere.
Facilities
- Unique ship-shaped forest lodge
- Overlooks floodlit waterhole and salt lick
- Multiple wildlife viewing decks
- Cosy lounge and observation areas
- Buffet dining restaurant
- 24-hour wildlife viewing experience
- Forest-based safari environment
- Easy access via Aberdare Country Club
- Family-friendly accommodation
- Secure national park location
Get There
By Road
Guests travel from Nairobi to Aberdare Country Club, a journey of approximately 2.5–3 hours. From there, lodge vehicles transfer guests into Aberdare National Park, a scenic drive of about 30–45 minutes through forested terrain to The Ark Lodge.
Activities
Guests at The Ark Lodge enjoy continuous wildlife viewing directly from the lodge, with elephants, buffalo, bushbuck, and other forest animals frequently visiting the waterhole. Additional activities include nature walks in designated areas, birdwatching, photography, and excursions within Aberdare National Park. The lodge itself serves as the main attraction, offering a rare opportunity to experience wildlife up close without leaving the property.
Children Policy
Children are welcome at The Ark Lodge, making it an excellent family-friendly safari destination. The safe, enclosed lodge environment and constant wildlife viewing make it ideal for introducing children to Africa’s natural world.
Check-in
From 12:00 PM
Check-out
By 10:00 AM
Why Choose The Ark Lodge
- One-of-a-kind ship-shaped forest lodge
- Constant wildlife viewing from the lodge
- Located in the scenic Aberdare National Park
- Floodlit waterhole for day and night sightings
- Family-friendly safari experience
- Cool highland climate and lush forest setting
- Easy access from Nairobi
- Safe and immersive wildlife environment
- Perfect for unique safari photography
- Memorable and distinctive Kenya safari stay
Book The Ark Lodge through Afrikan Accent Adventures and experience one of Kenya’s most unique safari lodges, where wildlife comes to you in the heart of the forest.
Rooms & suites
Classic Single Cabin
The Classic Single Cabin is thoughtfully designed for solo travellers seeking comfort and privacy. Featuring a comfortable single bed, an en-suite bathroom, modern furnishings and essential amenities, the cabin provides a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing or outdoor adventures.
Classic King Cabin
The Classic King Cabin offers a spacious and inviting setting with a luxurious king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom and a comfortable seating area. Warm contemporary décor and modern amenities create a relaxing atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for couples or guests seeking extra comfort.
Classic Queen Cabin
The Classic Queen Cabin combines comfort and practicality with a plush queen-size bed, an en-suite bathroom and tastefully furnished interiors. Ideal for couples or solo travellers, the cabin provides a cosy and welcoming space for a restful stay.
Classic Twin Cabin
The Classic Twin Cabin features two comfortable single beds, making it ideal for friends, colleagues or travelling companions. Complete with an en-suite bathroom, modern amenities and a relaxing interior, the cabin offers both comfort and convenience in a peaceful setting.
Classic Family Cabin
The Classic Family Cabin is designed with families and small groups in mind, offering spacious accommodation with multiple bedding configurations, an en-suite bathroom and a comfortable living space. The cabin provides plenty of room for everyone to relax while enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Amenities
Good to know
Location
Aberdare National Park
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