Tsavo East National Park, covering an immense 13,747 square kilometres, is characterised by its vast, semi-arid plains and iconic red-dust-coated elephants. Ashnil Aruba Lodge is situated in a pivotal location within the park, occupying a prime position directly overlooking the Aruba Dam. This critical permanent water source, originally constructed in 1952, attracts a consistent concentration of wildlife.
Aruba Dam The Heart of Game Viewing at Ashnil Aruba
The lodge's primary advantage is its direct view of the Aruba Dam. This man-made reservoir functions as a natural theatre for wildlife, drawing large herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, and various antelope species, particularly during the dry seasons. This proximity allows guests to conduct substantial game viewing directly from the lodge's terrace, restaurant, and select rooms, minimising the need for extensive vehicle travel on every game drive. While the lodge offers an exceptional armchair safari experience, the main game circuits of Tsavo East are also readily accessible from its position. This allows for efficient navigation of the greater park area, including key sites like the Kanderi Swamp and the Galana River. The lodge is located approximately 160 kilometres from Mombasa and 250 kilometres from Nairobi, typically accessed via the Voi Gate.
Central Lodge Design and Guest Facilities at Ashnil Aruba
The main public building is a substantial, open-plan structure built with stone foundations, timber framing, and a high, makuti-thatched roof that facilitates natural cooling. This central hub comprises the main reception, a spacious lounge area with comfortable seating, and the primary dining space. The decor is functional, incorporating local textiles and artefacts. The entire frontage remains open, oriented towards the dam to maximise both airflow and the uninterrupted views of the waterhole.
The Swimming Pool and Sun Terrace
A key feature of the lodge is its large, free-form swimming pool. The pool offers a welcome retreat from the high daytime temperatures and fine red dust characteristic of Tsavo, especially after morning or afternoon game drives. A paved sun terrace surrounds the pool, furnished with sun loungers and umbrellas. It provides an excellent vantage point from which to observe animals at the dam while relaxing.
Guest Rooms and Accommodation at Ashnil Aruba Lodge
Accommodation at Ashnil Aruba comprises 46 guest rooms housed in a series of detached and semi-detached single-storey units, arrayed in a crescent formation facing the dam. The rooms are of solid stone and plaster construction with tiled floors, a design that helps to keep the interiors cool in the equatorial climate. Each room features a small, private veranda with safari chairs, allowing guests a personal space to observe the landscape and wildlife activity.
Guest Room Features
The interior of each guest room is practical and spacious. The standard configuration includes twin or double beds, a writing desk, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. All rooms are equipped with comprehensive mosquito netting over the beds, and the lodge provides complimentary bottled water for drinking, which is replenished daily. Interconnecting rooms are available, making the lodge a viable and convenient option for family groups travelling together.
- En-suite bathroom with shower and basic toiletries
- Mosquito nets fitted to all beds
- Private, furnished veranda
- In-room safe
- Ceiling fan for air circulation
- Bottled drinking water provided
Dining Experience and Bar Service at Ashnil Aruba
The main restaurant operates from the central lodge building, offering buffet-style service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cuisine is a mix of international dishes with some local Kenyan options to suit a wide range of palates. The open-sided design of the restaurant ensures that diners can continue to watch for wildlife activity at the dam during mealtimes. A separate bar and lounge area adjoins the restaurant, serving a standard range of local and imported beverages throughout the day.
Ashnil Aruba Lodge Key Facts and Facilities
The lodge provides reliable infrastructure essential for a comfortable stay in a remote park environment. Security is maintained by a perimeter fence, creating a secure environment for guests to walk around the grounds both day and night.
| Lodge Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 24-hour (Mains with generator backup) |
| Internet Access | Wi-Fi available in main public areas |
| Water Supply | Borehole (Non-potable), bottled water for drinking |
| Security | Fully fenced perimeter |
| Mobile Reception | Intermittent; Safaricom generally strongest |
Why Ashnil Aruba Lodge is Ideal for Families and First-Time Safari Goers
Ashnil Aruba Lodge is highly recommended for families and first-time safari travellers. This suitability stems from several key logistical factors. The property is fully fenced, creating a safe, contained environment for those with young children. The large swimming pool provides a necessary diversion during the heat of the day, and the consistent wildlife viewing at the Aruba Dam directly from the lodge reduces the pressure of undertaking long, tiring game drives, which can be challenging for younger guests. Its mid-range positioning offers a reliable and comfortable base without the operational complexities of an unfenced, high-end camp.
