The Ark Lodge at Aberdare National Park: Your Ultimate Wildlife Experience
The Ark Lodge, located in Kenya’s Aberdare National Park, is a unique safari destination designed to provide guests with an immersive wildlife experience. Modeled after Noah’s Ark, this lodge sits beside a natural waterhole, attracting a variety of wildlife throughout the day and night. Visitors can watch elephants, buffaloes, antelope species, and occasionally even leopards as they drink and interact around the floodlit waterhole. Aberdare National Park itself is a highland region, known for its lush bamboo forests, misty moorlands, and beautiful mountain scenery. The park’s unique geography and climate make it an exceptional habitat for wildlife, including rare species like the giant forest hog and the bongo antelope.
Overview and Background of The Ark Lodge
The Ark Lodge has been a sought-after destination for travelers since its establishment. Constructed with three viewing decks and a “treehouse” style, The Ark’s design is centered on the concept of silent observation. The lodge enables guests to witness animals undisturbed in their natural behavior. Unique to the Ark Lodge is a buzzer system, notifying guests of rare wildlife sightings like black rhinos or leopards, allowing them to catch unforgettable moments. From the lodge’s decks, guests can also enjoy panoramic views of Aberdare’s rolling hills and dense forests, a lush backdrop to the park’s impressive biodiversity.
How to Get to The Ark Lodge at Aberdare National Park
The Ark Lodge is approximately 150 kilometers north of Nairobi, making it easily accessible from Kenya’s capital. Here’s how to reach it:
- By Road: Most visitors reach The Ark Lodge by car, typically taking around 2-3 hours from Nairobi. The drive is scenic, passing through central Kenya’s rolling hills, coffee plantations, and small villages before arriving at the forested highlands of Aberdare National Park.
- By Air: For a quicker journey, visitors can fly from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Nanyuki Airstrip. The airstrip is about a 45-minute drive to The Ark Lodge. Flights are typically offered by several domestic carriers.
Upon arriving in Aberdare, guests must check in at Aberdare Country Club, which acts as the main entry point to The Ark Lodge. After checking in, guests are transferred to The Ark by a guided vehicle, allowing them to begin spotting wildlife from the moment they enter the park.
Tourist Attractions and Activities at The Ark Lodge
The Ark Lodge is an all-encompassing safari destination, offering guests a chance to experience wildlife in a safe yet intimate way. Here are some of the top attractions and activities available:
1. Wildlife Viewing at the Waterhole
The Ark’s main attraction is its floodlit waterhole. Positioned next to the lodge, this waterhole attracts numerous animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and bushbucks, as well as rare animals like the giant forest hog and the elusive black leopard. The waterhole is illuminated at night, giving guests a chance to observe nocturnal species from the lodge’s viewing decks.
2. The Giant Forest Hog
Aberdare National Park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can encounter the giant forest hog. This species is the world’s largest wild pig, known for its distinctive black color and impressive size. Typically shy and rare to spot, the giant forest hog sometimes visits the waterhole, offering a unique viewing opportunity for guests.
3. The Bongo Antelope
Another rare species found in Aberdare is the bongo antelope. Recognizable by its reddish-brown coat with white stripes, the bongo is Africa’s largest forest antelope and is endemic to Kenya’s highland forests. Aberdare is one of the last remaining habitats for this endangered species, and seeing one is a highlight for any wildlife enthusiast.
4. Birdwatching
With over 250 bird species, Aberdare National Park is a haven for birdwatchers. Guests at The Ark Lodge can spot various birds, including the African goshawk, African crowned eagle, and sunbirds. The lodge’s forested surroundings make it an excellent location for birdwatching, with bird activity at its peak during early mornings and late afternoons.
5. Night Game Viewing
The Ark Lodge offers a unique night game viewing experience. The floodlit waterhole allows guests to observe animals like hyenas, civet cats, and occasionally leopards as they come to drink and hunt around the waterhole. The lodge’s balcony decks and large windows offer safe and comfortable observation points, giving visitors a chance to enjoy nocturnal wildlife activity without venturing into the park at night.
6. Guided Nature Walks
Guests staying at The Ark Lodge can embark on guided nature walks through Aberdare’s lush forests. Accompanied by experienced guides, these walks provide an opportunity to explore the park’s unique vegetation, spot small mammals, and learn about local plant species and their uses. Nature walks are typically moderate in difficulty, catering to all fitness levels.
7. Historical Sites and Scenic Spots
The Aberdare Range is filled with scenic landscapes and historical significance. Guests can visit the Aberdare Forest, where Mau Mau fighters once sought refuge during Kenya’s independence movement. The area is also known for Karuru Falls and Gura Falls, two stunning waterfalls within the park that provide excellent photo opportunities.
Accommodation and Dining at The Ark Lodge
The Ark Lodge offers comfortable, cabin-style accommodations, each designed to bring guests closer to nature. The lodge’s rooms range from single cabins to larger suites, each with large windows that overlook the surrounding forest. The decor is rustic yet elegant, providing a cozy atmosphere for guests to unwind after a day of wildlife watching.
The Ark Lodge’s restaurant serves a mix of local and international cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from nearby regions. Guests can enjoy hearty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, with views of the park’s dense forest and wildlife-filled waterhole. Dining at The Ark is as much an experience as the wildlife viewing itself, blending flavors with the sounds and sights of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time to visit The Ark Lodge at Aberdare National Park?
The best time to visit The Ark Lodge is during the dry seasons, which are June to September and December to February. During these months, wildlife is more visible around the waterhole, and road access to the park is easier. You can visit Aberdare year-round, and each season offers unique experiences
How can I book a stay at The Ark Lodge?
You can make bookings through various tour operators or directly on The Ark Lodge’s website. It’s always advisable to book in advance, especially during peak safari seasons.
Are there any age restrictions for staying at The Ark Lodge?
There are no strict age restrictions, but parents need to supervise young children at all times, especially on the viewing decks.
What should I pack for a stay at The Ark Lodge?
Bring warm clothing, as the high-altitude climate can be cold, especially in the evening. You can also bring Binoculars, a camera, and comfortable walking shoes; Rain gear during the wet seasons, as the park receives heavy rainfall.
Is The Ark Lodge suitable for family visits?
Yes, The Ark Lodge is family-friendly, offering activities suitable for all ages. However, children are supervised during wildlife viewing.
Conclusion
The Ark Lodge at Aberdare National Park provides a unique blend of luxury, nature, and adventure, all within one of Kenya’s most ecologically rich parks. From close encounters with elephants and rare antelopes at the floodlit waterhole to guided forest walks and scenic view of Aberdare’s peaks and valleys, the lodge offers an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
