Treetops Hotel in Aberdare National Park

It is said that the best places to stay are the ones with history embossed on its walls. And if it happens to be in the African savanna, then the stay is made much more exciting.

Such is the hype that surrounds the famous Treetops Hotel, a tree lodge in Aberdare National Park whose foundation is basically made on stilts (because the location where the structure was built is actually facing a waterhole and a salt lick). And while its rustic design has attracted visitors from different nations, it is the story of a little princess that mesmerized the whole world. Princess Elizabeth, who was staying here in February 1952, learned of her father’s death (King George VI), and ascended to the throne while inside the lodge. This is the first time that a British monarch succeeded the crown outside England since the 1801 Act of Union. So in commemoration of this historic event, a lodge suite was named after Queen Elizabeth.

At more than 6,000 feet above sea level, the lodge becomes chilly especially at night. So those who are planning to stay here overnight should bring warm clothes. A rooftop platform and four viewing decks make it easy for guests to have sightings of buffalos, rhinos and elephants while taking sips of their drinks. Serious photographers, on the other hand, can take advantage of the two photographic hides located at the ground level.

Guests can choose between 50 cozy rooms (including two suites). Even if you are inside your room, you will not miss out on anything as there is an optional buzzer in the space-efficient rooms which alerts you when there is something going on – be it a once-in-a-lifetime sighting or simply an up-close encounter of some wild animals. On a clear-skied morning, you will see the majestic Mouth Kenya from the lodge.

Treetops Hotel in Aberdare National Park