The Ark - Aberdares National Park
Discover The Ark, a distinctive lodge nestled high in Kenya's Aberdares National Park.
- Location
- Aberdares National Park, Laikipia & Mount Kenya Region, Kenya, East Africa
- Coordinates
- -0.348797, 36.812096
- Elevation
- 2,323m
- Activities
- hotel
PlnrScore: 31/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
561 species observed within 20 km, 49 mammals, 222 birds.
- Southern Bushbuck (Mammalia, 161 observations)
- African Buffalo (Mammalia, 118 observations)
- Baglafecht Weaver (Aves, 92 observations)
- Giant Forest Hog (Mammalia, 92 observations)
- Speckled Mousebird (Aves, 68 observations)
- Common Warthog (Mammalia, 57 observations)
- Spotted Hyena (Mammalia, 56 observations)
- Streaky Seedeater (Aves, 56 observations)
- Common Bulbul (Aves, 52 observations)
- African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 51 observations)
Best Time to Visit The Ark
The best months to visit The Ark are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Good, temperature 9.46°C, rainfall 78.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 78.3%
- February: Good, temperature 10.09°C, rainfall 65.4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 75%
- March: Good, temperature 10.22°C, rainfall 88.4mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 79.8%
- April: Poor, temperature 10.12°C, rainfall 202.4mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 88.3%
- May: Poor, temperature 10.02°C, rainfall 202.2mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 87.2%
- June: Poor, temperature 9.01°C, rainfall 102.5mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 87.2%
- July: Poor, temperature 8.59°C, rainfall 178.9mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 89.8%
- August: Poor, temperature 8.62°C, rainfall 175.2mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 88.3%
- September: Poor, temperature 9.14°C, rainfall 185.9mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 86.6%
- October: Poor, temperature 9.41°C, rainfall 179mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 86.3%
- November: Poor, temperature 9.32°C, rainfall 135.7mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 88%
- December: Good, temperature 9.32°C, rainfall 70.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 83.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see from The Ark, and how is the viewing experience unique?
The Ark is renowned for its floodlit waterhole and salt lick, attracting a diverse range of nocturnal and diurnal animals. Guests can observe elephants, buffalo, various antelopes, and even leopards or rhinos from the safety of the lodge's multiple viewing decks, often throughout the night.
When is the best time of year to visit The Ark for optimal wildlife sightings?
The dry seasons, typically January-February and June-October, are generally considered best as animals congregate more frequently at the waterhole due to scarcity elsewhere. However, The Ark offers excellent year-round viewing opportunities, with lush scenery during the wet months.
Beyond typical safari lodges, what makes the guest experience at The Ark truly distinctive?
The Ark's unique design, resembling Noah's Ark, features four viewing decks that offer unparalleled perspectives of the waterhole and surrounding forest. Guests can also opt for a special 'buzzer' service to be alerted to rare animal sightings, even in the middle of the night.
How safe is it to stay at The Ark, given its proximity to wildlife, and is it accessible for all travelers?
The Ark is very safe, with guests viewing wildlife from elevated, secure decks within the lodge's structure. While the lodge has multiple levels accessed by stairs, staff are available to assist guests, and it's important to note the unique design might present challenges for those with severe mobility issues.
What is typically included in the cost of a stay at The Ark, and what additional expenses should I anticipate?
A stay at The Ark usually includes full-board accommodation (meals) and the unique game viewing experience from the lodge itself. Additional costs often include Aberdares National Park entrance fees, transfers to and from the lodge, and any drinks or personal purchases.