Aruba Dam was built in 1952 by park authorities to help control the waters of the seasonal Voi River. Covering about 85 hectares, it is one of the key water sources in Tsavo East National Park and a popular spot for both wildlife and visitors.
The dam is an artificial reservoir created by the Kenya Wildlife Service to store water for animals, especially during the dry season. Next to the dam, there is a lodge where visitors can stay, and a jetty that extends into the water.
The dam is also home to a hippo pool, which is one of the best places in the park to see hippos. Many animals gather here to drink, cool off, and feed along the water’s edge, making it one of the best spots for close-up game viewing in Tsavo East.
Aruba Dam is also well known for bird watching. Common birds in the area include woodpeckers, sunbirds, starlings, and pigeons.
Along the Galana River nearby, visitors can spot Somali ostriches, Kori bustards, Bateleurs, Carmine bee-eaters, and vulturine guinea fowls, which are unique to East Africa.
The variety of birds makes it a great place for nature photographers and bird lovers.
The dam’s location on the Voi River, at the southern end of Tsavo East National Park, makes it easily accessible. It is less than an hour’s drive from the Mombasa-Nairobi highway and railway.
The surrounding grasslands stretch far to the east and southeast, offering excellent chances to see animals.
The area is known for regular sightings of lions, often resting near the dam, and cheetahs, which are more commonly seen here than in most parts of southeast Kenya.
Other wildlife spotted around the dam includes elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and antelopes.
Aruba Dam remains an important water source and wildlife gathering point in Tsavo East. For visitors, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy both game viewing and bird watching in one location, making it a must-visit spot during any safari in the park.
