Ashnil Aruba Lodge
The placement of Ashnil Aruba Lodge is no accident of design; it is a strategic marvel. Located approximately 30 kilometers from Voi Gate, the lodge is easily accessible for those driving from the Kenyan coast or Nairobi. Its proximity to the Aruba Dam—a permanent water source in a often semi-arid landscape—means that the wildlife comes to you.
Because Tsavo East is characterized by flat, open savannahs, the visibility at Ashnil Aruba Lodge is exceptional. Unlike the dense foliage of other parks, the landscape here allows guests to spot herds of herbivores and stalking predators from significant distances, often directly from the lodge’s wooden decks.
Quick Facts: Ashnil Aruba Lodge at a Glance
Category | Details |
Location | Heart of Tsavo East National Park, Kenya |
Accommodation | 46 Rooms, 6 Luxury Tents, and 12 Club Wing Rooms |
Sustainability | Energy-efficient systems and local community empowerment |
Primary Wildlife | Red Elephants, Mane-less Lions, Buffalo, over 500 Bird species |
Unique Feature | Situated on the banks of the historic Aruba Dam |
Activities | Game drives, Bird watching, Cultural visits, and Bush dining |
Diverse Accommodation: From Cottages to the Club Wing
The architectural philosophy at Ashnil Aruba Lodge is one of subtle elegance and African inspiration. The property features a diverse range of stay options to cater to different traveler profiles:
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Deluxe Rooms: There are 46 single-story cottages, including eight interconnected rooms specifically designed for families.
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Luxury Tents: For those seeking an authentic “under canvas” experience without sacrificing comfort, the six luxury tents offer permanent bathrooms and private decks.
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The Club Wing: This is the newest addition to Ashnil Aruba Lodge, featuring 12 contemporary rooms with upgraded amenities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and an exclusive swimming pool for a more secluded experience.
Every room is designed with warm tones of orange and red, mirroring the iconic soil of Tsavo, and features private verandas that look out over the park or the dam.
Commitment to Sustainability and the Community
Operating in a delicate ecosystem requires a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Ashnil Aruba Lodge employs energy-efficient lighting and water-saving systems to minimize its footprint. The lodge also prioritizes the employment of staff from the local Taita and Kamba communities, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism reach the grassroots level. By staying at Ashnil Aruba Lodge, guests contribute to a cycle of conservation that protects both the land and its people.
Primary Wildlife: The Giants of Tsavo
The area surrounding Ashnil Aruba Lodge is a sanctuary for some of Africa’s most famous residents. The “Dust-Red Elephants” are a primary draw; they often congregate in large numbers at the dam to bathe and drink.
Predators are equally abundant. The Tsavo lions, known historically for their size and unique lack of manes, are frequently spotted during game drives. Cheetahs and leopards also roam the plains, while the Aruba Dam itself is home to hippos and massive crocodiles. For bird enthusiasts, Ashnil Aruba Lodge is a paradise, with over 500 recorded species ranging from majestic raptors to vibrant rollers and sunbirds.
The Aruba Dam: A Unique Feature
What truly sets Ashnil Aruba Lodge apart is the Aruba Dam. In a park as vast as Tsavo East, water is gold. The dam creates a permanent oasis that lures wildlife in a constant procession throughout the day.
The lodge’s restaurant and bar are built to overlook this water source, meaning you can enjoy a world-class meal while watching a herd of buffalo or a family of giraffes just a few hundred meters away. This “stationary safari” experience is a luxury that few other lodges in the region can match.
Immersive Activities for Every Adventurer
A stay at Ashnil Aruba Lodge is defined by the quality of its activities. Beyond the standard morning and afternoon game drives, the lodge offers:
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Guided Nature Walks: Accompanied by a naturalist, these walks allow you to appreciate the smaller details of the bush, from tracks to medicinal plants.
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Bush Breakfasts and Sundowners: Experience the magic of the savannah with a meal set in the middle of the wild.
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Cultural Center Visits: Learn about the traditions, crafts, and history of the local communities.
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Photography Hides: The lodge provides vantage points specifically designed for photographers to capture the perfect shot of the wildlife at the dam.
