Treetops Lodge | Nyeri

Treetops Lodge is a historic game viewing lodge situated in Aberdare National Park, near Nyeri, Kenya.

It is a multi-story structure built on stilts, offering elevated views of a watering hole and salt lick frequented by wildlife.

Visual Characteristics

The lodge is constructed primarily from timber and metal. It features multiple levels with balconies and viewing platforms. The exterior is a utilitarian design, painted in muted earth tones to blend with the surrounding forest. The structure rises several stories above the ground, providing unobstructed sightlines.

Location & Access Logistics

Treetops Lodge is located within Aberdare National Park. Access is typically via the park's main gate. The nearest town is Nyeri, approximately 20 kilometers away. Driving from Nyeri to the park gate takes about 30 minutes. From the park gate, a further 10-kilometer drive leads to the lodge's parking area. Vehicles are left at the parking area, and guests are transferred to the lodge via a dedicated park vehicle. There are no direct public transport routes to the lodge itself; arrangements are usually made through tour operators or the lodge directly.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Treetops Lodge was originally built in 1932 by Eric Walker, the son of a hotelier. Its initial purpose was to provide a unique vantage point for observing wildlife. The current structure is a reconstruction, as the original was destroyed by fire in 1954. It is situated in an area known for its dense indigenous forest and abundant wildlife, part of the larger Aberdare Range ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guests can observe animals from the lodge's viewing decks, particularly at the watering hole. Activities include nocturnal game viewing, with animals often visible throughout the night. Guided walks within the park can be arranged, subject to park regulations and availability. Photography of wildlife is a primary activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The lodge provides basic accommodation with en-suite bathrooms. Restrooms are available on multiple levels. Limited shade is provided by the lodge structure itself. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable within the park and at the lodge. There are no food vendors on-site; meals are served at the lodge's dining area.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for wildlife viewing is typically dawn and dusk. The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, offer the most consistent wildlife sightings at the watering hole. There are no specific tide requirements as the lodge is inland.

Facts & Legends

Treetops Lodge is famously known as the place where Princess Elizabeth ascended to the throne of the United Kingdom in 1952, upon the death of her father, King George VI, while she was staying at the lodge. A specific tip for visitors is to keep noise levels to a minimum on the viewing decks to avoid disturbing the animals.

Nearby Landmarks

• Aberdare National Park Main Gate (20km Southwest)
• Mount Kenya National Park (Approx. 40km East)
• Solio Game Ranch (Approx. 30km Northeast)
• Chania Falls (Approx. 15km West)