The Ark Lodge

Offering a safari experience with a unique architectural twist, The Ark Lodge stands as one of the most iconic accommodations in central Kenya. Situated within the lush and wildlife-rich Aberdare National Park, the lodge is designed to mimic the form of Noah’s Ark, which not only gives it distinctive charm but also places it directly in front of a floodlit waterhole. Here, from the moment guests arrive, wildlife sightings begin as animals make their way to the waterhole throughout the day and night.

Spread over three levels, the lodge offers multiple viewing decks, lounges, and a specially designed bunker-style observation area at ground level, ensuring exceptional opportunities for up-close wildlife viewing. Whether relaxing indoors or on the exterior decks, guests are treated to panoramic scenes of elephants, buffalo, and other animals visiting the waterhole.

The lodge’s restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere with its wooden interiors and intimate setting. While breakfast and dinner are served at The Ark, lunch is offered at the nearby Aberdare Country Club, where meals are crafted using fresh, locally grown ingredients from the club’s gardens. Guests can further unwind in a comfortable library, browse a gift shop, or partake in unique activities such as fishing or guided nature walks to the majestic waterfalls hidden in the nearby Moorlands.

Location

The Ark Lodge is located in the heart of Aberdare National Park, east of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. The drive from Nairobi to the lodge takes approximately four hours, covering a distance of around 95 miles. From the town of Nakuru, the lodge lies just 55 miles away. Positioned directly in front of a waterhole that is illuminated at night, The Ark offers a rare and constant window into the natural movements of wildlife in this protected region. The park itself is known for its dramatic landscapes, combining thick forests, open moorlands, and deep ravines.

Rooms / Tents

The lodge comprises 60 rooms located across its three decks. These rooms are configured to cater to different guest needs, offering single, double, and triple-share bedding arrangements, making them ideal for both couples and families. Each room boasts sweeping views of the floodlit waterhole and the surrounding wilderness, allowing guests to experience the bush’s magic from the comfort of their rooms.

Rooms are thoughtfully decorated with an African-inspired theme and include en-suite bathrooms fitted with a shower, basin, and toilet. Complimentary amenities such as toiletries, fresh fruit, bottled water, and toweling gowns are provided to enhance the guest experience. The balance between rustic charm and comfort ensures a restful stay amidst nature.

Amenities

• Gift Shop
• Bar
• Library
• Restaurant
• Lounge Areas
• Multiple Viewing Decks
• Moorland Nature Walks
• Fishing
• Wi-Fi in Public Areas

Game Viewing / Activities

At The Ark Lodge, game viewing is not limited to traditional drives. From the moment guests arrive, they are invited to witness the ebb and flow of wildlife activity directly from the lodge itself. The multi-tiered viewing decks and ground-level bunker offer one of the most immersive wildlife viewing setups in Kenya. Creatures such as elephants, waterbuck, hyenas, buffalo, and the elusive leopard regularly appear at the waterhole, particularly during the twilight hours when the area is beautifully lit.

While observing wildlife from the lodge is a major highlight, guests are also encouraged to explore Aberdare National Park through guided game drives in enclosed 4×4 safari vehicles. These drives venture into the park’s diverse terrain of dense forests, alpine moorlands, and deep valleys. In addition to sightings of the Big Five, guests may encounter plains game, the endangered black rhino, and strikingly beautiful species like the colobus monkey and Rothschild’s giraffe.

For those seeking a deeper connection with the landscape, walking safaris across the Moorlands allow for a more intimate exploration of the region’s natural wonders. Guests can also indulge in quiet pastimes like fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes, with an opportunity to reflect in the peaceful environment.

Whether for the panoramic views, the iconic design, or the unforgettable wildlife moments, The Ark Lodge remains one of Kenya’s most treasured safari experiences. Guests looking to enjoy this one-of-a-kind lodge are encouraged to book their stay with Adventure In The Wild Safaris, specialists in crafting seamless and immersive journeys into the heart of Africa’s wild.