Ashnil Aruba Lodge

What stays with me most is how kind and genuinely welcoming everyone on staff was. They surprised me with a birthday cake and a song, which made the trip extra special. We spent three nights here with our baby and slept really well. The rooms were comfortable, the clean soft sheets were lovely, and every room has a park view. The buffet was fresh and delicious, with barbecue, hot naan made fresh, and a great range of vegetarian dishes. I could happily eat vegetarian at Aruba even though I'm not one. We saw lions and lots of other wildlife just minutes from the lodge. The area is fenced, so no need to worry. I'd recommend staying here in Tsavo.

The beds were really comfortable, and being right in the national park, surrounded by wildlife and nature, was a big plus. The staff made us feel welcome, and there was a tasty range of food to choose from. A mosquito net was provided, with the fan set up inside it, which worked well. There's a small pool for a quick cool-off, though not many other amenities. Wi-Fi reached the lobby and dining area only, not the rooms.

We only came in to use the washrooms, since this public park is open to tourists and has no public toilets. Staff rudely chased us out because we weren't eating there. I understand businesses can choose who they admit, but in a national park where visitors don't really have another option, that treatment felt disgusting and completely uncalled for.

Our safari driver left us stranded for a day, and the staff at Aruba lodge were very helpful and welcoming. We couldn't stay overnight then, but I especially want to thank the manager, Mr. Nyamanga, who did a lot to help us. We hadn't known about the lodge before. It looks lovely, with a wonderful view of the park, and I hope we can stay there for a few nights next time.