The Ark Lodge

The Ark Lodge Kenya: A Unique Safari Experience in Aberdare National Park

The Ark Lodge Kenya is not your typical safari lodge. Perched deep within the lush forests of the Aberdare National Park, this iconic tree lodge offers one of the most immersive wildlife experiences in Kenya. Inspired by Noah’s Ark, its unique design and exceptional location make it one of the top choices for travelers seeking something extraordinary.

Whether you're looking for a quiet escape in nature, a romantic getaway, or an unforgettable wildlife safari, The Ark Lodge delivers with charm, comfort, and authenticity.

Where Is The Ark Lodge Located?

The Ark is nestled in the heart of Aberdare National Park, in Nyeri County, central Kenya. It sits within a forest glade at over 2,000 meters above sea level. The elevation gives it a cool, fresh climate throughout the year. From Nairobi, the lodge is about a 3.5-hour scenic drive via Nyeri or Nyahururu.

Guests check in at Aberdare Country Club, which acts as a base hotel and check-in point. From there, a special shuttle transfers guests through the park and into the lodge, maximizing the wilderness experience right from the start.

A Lodge Shaped Like Noah’s Ark

One of the lodge’s most distinctive features is its architecture. The Ark is designed to resemble Noah’s Ark, complete with wooden decks and balconies overlooking a salt lick and waterhole. This waterhole is a magnet for wildlife, especially during the dry season.

The multi-level structure gives guests uninterrupted views from almost every angle. Whether you’re lounging in the bar, enjoying dinner, or tucked into your room, wildlife sightings are always just a glance away.

Wildlife Viewing From the Comfort of the Lodge

Unlike other safari lodges that require drives to see animals, The Ark brings the wildlife to you. Elephants, buffalos, bushbucks, warthogs, and hyenas are frequent visitors. The real magic, however, is in the rare and elusive creatures.

At night, you might spot a leopard, giant forest hog, or the mysterious bongo antelope, which is endemic to the Aberdares and very hard to find elsewhere in Kenya.

To ensure you don’t miss any special moments, guests can request a night buzzer alert in their room. If a rare animal appears, the buzzer sounds discreetly, allowing you to wake up and head to the observation deck.

Rooms and Accommodation at The Ark

The Ark Lodge has 60 cabin-style rooms spread across four decks. The rooms are categorized into:

• Single Rooms
• Twin Rooms
• Double Rooms
• Triple Rooms

Each room is compact but comfortable, with en-suite bathrooms and cozy bedding. While there are no TVs, this only enhances the immersion into nature. The windows open out to the forest or the waterhole, so your morning view could be a herd of elephants just meters away.

There’s also a communal lounge, viewing decks, and a rooftop terrace for panoramic forest views.

Dining at The Ark Lodge

Guests enjoy all meals at The Ark, with breakfast and lunch typically served at the Aberdare Country Club before transferring to the lodge. Once at The Ark, dinner is served in the elegant dining room overlooking the waterhole.

The menu is a mix of continental and African dishes, with fresh vegetables, meats, soups, and desserts prepared daily. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available upon request.

A full bar and lounge offer the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine or hot chocolate as you watch the animals drink under the moonlight.

Activities and Things to Do at The Ark

While much of your time will be spent enjoying wildlife from the lodge’s decks, there are several experiences that make a stay at The Ark even more fulfilling:

1. Nature Walks

Guided forest walks can be arranged through Aberdare Country Club. You’ll get to explore the rich flora and fauna, spot birds, and learn about local plant life with a naturalist.

2. Game Drives

While The Ark itself is more of a sit-and-watch lodge, game drives through the Aberdare National Park can be arranged from the Country Club. Look out for black rhinos, elands, and the shy bongo.

3. Bird Watching

The Aberdare region is home to over 250 species of birds, including sunbirds, hornbills, and African crowned eagles. Birding enthusiasts will be thrilled by the variety seen from the lodge or on nature walks.

4. Photography

Whether it’s the misty forest mornings or the glowing eyes of elephants at night, The Ark offers excellent opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.

Why Choose The Ark Lodge?

Unique Architecture and Experience

The Ark’s design alone makes it stand out. Combined with its wildlife-viewing setup, it offers something very few lodges can—luxury wildlife watching without leaving the lodge.

Ideal for All Types of Travelers

From solo explorers and honeymooners to families and photographers, The Ark has something for everyone. It’s also great for multi-generational trips, thanks to its ease of access and peaceful environment.

Excellent for Safari Circuits

The Ark is a perfect stopover on your way to Samburu, Ol Pejeta, or even the Masai Mara. Many travelers include it as a relaxing first or second stop on their Kenyan safari itinerary.

How to Book a Stay at The Ark Lodge

Bookings at The Ark Lodge are managed via The Holiday Dealers, a trusted platform for Kenya safari packages and lodge bookings.

You can book:

• Full board packages (meals included)
• Safari packages (including game drives and transfers)
• Custom trips (The Ark + Samburu + Ol Pejeta + Masai Mara, etc.)

Contact The Holiday Dealers for the best rates, resident offers, and personalized itineraries. Group and family packages are also available.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season) is ideal for wildlife viewing. The rainy season (March–May) is wetter but lush and less crowded.
• What to Pack: Warm clothing for chilly evenings, binoculars, camera, insect repellent, and good walking shoes.
• Check-in: All guests must check in at Aberdare Country Club for park permits and lodge transfer.
• Connectivity: There’s limited mobile signal and no Wi-Fi at The Ark. It’s a great time to disconnect and be present with nature.

Reviews and What Guests Are Saying

The Ark has received glowing reviews on platforms like  Here are a few highlights:

“Watching elephants from the comfort of the lounge with a cup of coffee in hand was simply magical.”
— Margaret, Nairobi

“One of the most unique lodges I’ve ever stayed at. The night alerts for wildlife were an exciting touch!”
— John, UK

“It’s like being in the middle of a wildlife documentary. Highly recommended.”
— Anita, India

The Ark Lodge Bookings Contacts

For inquiries, special offers, and direct bookings:

• Contact and Booking Information
  Phone: +254 (0) 799 863 970
  Email: [email protected]

   

The Ark Lodge Photos

You’ll find a curated collection of The Ark’s best moments on Instagram and travel review platforms. Think: elephants in the mist, cozy lounges, and twilight views from the deck.

For professional images and trip planning inspiration, check out the official photo gallery on The Holiday Dealers website.

Final Thoughts: Is The Ark Lodge Worth It?

Absolutely. The Ark Lodge Kenya isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s a destination in its own right. For nature lovers, photographers, families, and couples looking for an immersive, peaceful, and unforgettable wildlife experience, The Ark is a top pick.

Its combination of unique design, strategic location, and non-stop wildlife action offers great value and memorable moments.