Aruba Dam | Voi

Aruba Dam is an artificial water reservoir located in Tsavo East National Park, near Voi, Kenya.

It serves as a critical water source for wildlife within the park.

Visual Characteristics

The dam is a concrete structure with a length of approximately 1.5 kilometers. The reservoir it creates is a body of water that varies in size depending on rainfall. The surrounding landscape consists of semi-arid scrubland and acacia trees.

Location & Access Logistics

Aruba Dam is situated within Tsavo East National Park. Access is via the park's main gate, typically the Voi Gate, which is approximately 5 kilometers from Voi town. The dam is accessible via dirt tracks within the park. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the wet season. There is no public transport directly to the dam; visitors must use park entry vehicles or private transport. Parking is available at designated viewing points near the dam wall.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The dam was constructed in 1952 by the Kenya Wildlife Service (then the Game Department) to provide a permanent water supply for wildlife in the Tsavo ecosystem. Its purpose was to mitigate the effects of drought and support animal populations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of wildlife congregating at the waterhole is the primary activity. Species commonly seen include elephants, zebras, wildebeest, and various antelope species. Birdwatching is also a significant activity due to the presence of water attracting diverse avian life. Game drives are the standard method of accessing and viewing the dam and its surroundings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities are limited. There are no permanent food vendors at the dam itself. Restrooms are not consistently available at the immediate dam site; facilities are typically found at park lodges or visitor centers. Shade is provided by acacia trees in the vicinity. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally unreliable within Tsavo East National Park, including the area around Aruba Dam.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for wildlife viewing at the dam is early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active and seeking water. The dry seasons, typically from June to October and December to February, offer the highest concentration of animals at the waterhole as other sources dry up. There are no tide requirements as it is a freshwater reservoir.

Facts & Legends

Aruba Dam was one of the first artificial waterholes created in Tsavo East National Park, significantly impacting the park's carrying capacity for wildlife. A specific local legend is not widely documented, but the dam is recognized for its role in supporting the large elephant herds for which Tsavo is known.

Nearby Landmarks

• Voi Town (5km South)
• Tsavo East National Park Main Gate (Voi Gate) (5km South)
• Yatta Plateau (15km West)
• Lugard Falls (25km East)
• Mombo Rock (10km North-East)