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Watch Africa's Wildlife Gather from the Comfort of Your Lodge
The Ark Lodge offers a unique wildlife experience with cozy rooms, scenic views, and unparalleled opportunities to observe animals in Aberdare National Park. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a comfortable and unforgettable safari experience.
The Ark Lodge is a unique and iconic safari lodge located in the heart of Aberdare National Park, Kenya. Perched on a hillside and designed to resemble an ark, the lodge offers spectacular views of the surrounding forest and wildlife. The Ark’s strategic location near waterholes allows guests to witness a variety of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, and a wide array of bird species, as they come to drink, often in full view of the lodge’s observation decks. With its cozy atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and expansive viewing areas, The Ark offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, especially for those seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying the magic of Kenya's highland ecosystems.
Larger rooms with enhanced furnishings, better positioning, and excellent views of the wildlife coming to the nearby waterholes.
Spacious room configuration with multiple beds, perfect for families or small groups seeking a comfortable and private stay.
Comfortable rooms with double or twin beds, en-suite bathroom, and views of the surrounding forest. Ideal for solo travellers or couples.
The Ark Lodge, Mweiga, off Nyeri-Nyahururu Rd, Nyeri
Location
Mweiga, off Nyeri-Nyahururu Rd, Nyeri
Aberdare National Park region
Property Type
Lodge
5-star rated property
Destination
Aberdare National Park
Kenya
View on Google Maps
Get directions & explore the area
Located in the heart of Aberdare National Park, The Ark Lodge is one of Kenya's most iconic safari lodges, famous for its floodlit waterhole and exceptional wildlife viewing. The lodge is accessible by both road and air, with all guests checking in through Aberdare Country Club before being transferred to the lodge.
By Air: The fastest option is a scheduled or charter flight from Nairobi's Wilson Airport to Mweiga Airstrip, Nyeri Airstrip, or Nanyuki Airstrip. Flights take approximately 30–60 minutes, followed by a road transfer to Aberdare Country Club and onward to The Ark.
By Road: Guests can drive from Nairobi via Nyeri and Mweiga to Aberdare Country Club, a journey of approximately 3–4 hours. From the Country Club, guests are transferred by the lodge's vehicles through the park to The Ark, a drive of about 40–45 minutes.
Private Transfers & Safari Packages: Private road transfers, chauffeur-driven safaris, and tailor-made safari packages can be arranged, often combined with destinations such as Samburu, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara.
Nearest Airstrip: Mweiga Airstrip is the closest airstrip to The Ark and provides the most convenient access for guests arriving by air. Nyeri and Nanyuki airstrips are also commonly used depending on flight schedules.
Located deep within Aberdare National Park, The Ark Lodge is one of Kenya's most unique safari lodges. Designed to resemble Noah's Ark, it overlooks a floodlit waterhole and salt lick where elephants, buffaloes, hyenas, bushbucks, giant forest hogs, and occasionally the elusive black rhino visit throughout the day and night. Guests can even be alerted by a room buzzer system when special animals arrive at the waterhole.
This is the prime season to visit The Ark. The weather is drier, roads are easier to navigate, and wildlife activity around the waterhole increases as animals seek water sources. Visibility is also better for wildlife observation and photography.
Another highly recommended period. Rainfall is generally lower, skies are clearer, and wildlife viewing remains excellent. This is one of the best times for photography and enjoying Aberdare's scenery.
The long rains transform Aberdare into a lush, green paradise. Waterfalls are at their most spectacular, but some roads can become muddy and wildlife may be harder to spot in the dense vegetation.
Short rains may occur, but the park remains accessible. The landscapes are vibrant, birdlife is abundant, and visitor numbers are generally lower than during peak safari months.
Unique lodge overlooking a floodlit waterhole and salt lick.
Excellent night-time wildlife viewing directly from the lodge.
Opportunity to see rare species such as the bongo antelope, giant forest hog, and black rhino.
Located in the cool, forested Aberdare ecosystem, offering a completely different safari experience from the savannah parks.
Famous historical lodge and one of Kenya's most iconic wildlife-viewing properties.
Everything you need to plan an unforgettable African adventure.