There are extensive jungley grounds at this hotel, lots of rooms, but virtually no other guests. My self-contained room was large, air conditioned with ceiling fan and frig but very poor lighting. A rather ghostly cavernous feeling to the establishment. The room cost US$24, no complimentary breakfast. But very peaceful and quiet. When they host a conference, it probably takes on a livelier atmosphere.
I was lucky to get a ride back to the Reserve the next morning for a guided walking tour through pleasant savannah grasslands, flanked by neem trees. Olive babboons were the only animal visible. Our 1-hour walk on a muddy rutted road took us to a small lake formed by the Adwuku Dam, but we didn't see the crocodiles whch apparently live there. More demanding hikes are possible, with climbs in caves up to ancient lookout points. They have no 4-wheel drive vehicle, which is necessary for some of the roads.
It's disappointing that the hotel no longer has the swimming pool they advertise, nor can they arrange Park tours as promised. So if you want to just hang out in a quiet wooded locale, the Shai Hills is perfect. But don't expect much wildlife or certainly any partying.
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