Aberdare - Any recent stays at the Ark?
 

We will be spending the day in the Aberdare National Park on our way from Naivasha (Loldia Lodge) to Samburu (Larsen's Camp). To maximize our time at Aberdare, our guide has suggested that we overnight at the Ark (because we will already be in the park we do not have to go to the Aberdare CC and do the transfer thing) over continuing on to the Mt. Kenya Safari Club since it is only one night and we will not really have the opportunity to take advantage of the facilities at the Safari Club. I don't mind giving up Safari Club as long as the accomodations at the Ark are not in complete decline. Does anyone know the status of their planned renovations/takeover by the Fairmont group? Have any rooms been updated?
Thanks in advance.

We were there in late June, and out of two weeks in Kenya and Tanzania, the Ark was my biggest disappointment. Our room was tiny, much smaller than any other lodge we stayed in, barely enough space to enter the room, pass between twin beds, and get to the tiny bathroom. Food was not as good as other lodges, and the night game viewing at their much-hyped pond/salt lick under the floodlights was not eventful, a few elephants, a hyena quickly crossed the area and was gone, a few buffalo. Nothing to stay up late for. I personally would opt for the Mt Kenya Safari Club, but maybe it is too far to go, as suggested by your guide.

When are you traveling? All I could find was an article briefly mentioning that renovations are scheduled for Jan-Mar of next year -

http://www.eastandard.net/hm_news/ne...rticleid=29534

We are traveling late July '06 so I will cross my fingers.

I have been to the Ark four times,always enjoyed it and seen lots of game including leopard and rhino. The accomodation and food is a bit basic but that is not the reason for staying there!The only advice I would give is that is best at the start, as opposed to the end, of a safari.

Thanks for the replies. It is near the start, only for one night, and sandwiched between what look to be great lodging choices of Loldia and then on to Larsens Camp. Patty's report and link that there is a chance of renovation before we leave is encouraging!