Samburu Sopa Lodge Photos & Info

Samburu Sopa Lodge, Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

Overview

Perched atop high ground inside Northern Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve, Samburu Sopa Lodge offers panoramic views of the vast shrubland and hills beyond. The lodge was designed to reflect the architectural heritage of the local communities whose sons and daughters make up most of the workforce at the lodge.

A wide variety of animals and birdlife live in the reserve, including several species unique to the region. Guests may see Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, vulturine guinea fowls, lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalos, crocodiles, and hippos. Olive baboons, gerenuks, warthogs, Beisa oryxes, waterbucks, and Grant’s gazelles frequent the area, too. More than 350 species of birds include Somali ostriches, Grey-headed kingfishers, sunbirds, bee-eaters, Marabou storks, eagles, yellow-necked Spur fowls, red-billed hornbills, Verreaux’s eagles, and many more.

Rooms

Fifteen cottages, each with two bedrooms, are built in an arch formation on either side of the public areas. The accommodations surround the waterhole yet leave a wide gap to allow the animals free movement to the water. The cottages emulate centuries-old, traditional Samburu housing, yet inside that similarity gives way to higher ceilings, far larger windows, much more floor space, and ensuite bathrooms. Two airy and comfortable, tastefully furnished guest rooms in each cottage have queen beds, a large dressing table, a lavish bathroom, and an open-air verandah overlooking the waterhole. Two inter-connecting, wheelchair-accessible rooms are available closest to the reception area.

Amenities

The circular, grass-thatched reception area and adjacent boutique are a welcome respite for guests from the outdoor heat of the equatorial sun. Earthen colors and traditional Samburu decorations blend well with the natural surroundings, which are seen throughout the public spaces thanks to a lack of windows. Cool breezes flow freely through large, amorphous spaces. As soon as one enters the reception area, there’s a commanding feeling of standing atop the world as a stunning, panoramic view of Africa extends before you.

Guests find refreshing pleasure in the large, mosaic-tiled, free-form swimming pool, surrounded by local flat-stone sunbathing area, an adjoining children’s pool, an outdoor shower, and a sunken bar – all within view of the wildlife at the waterhole.

The dining room is on a slightly higher level than the lounge and shares the totally openair atmosphere while framing views over both the waterhole and the panoramic landscapes beyond. The furnishings follow traditional designs, and the curvaceous buffet tables and live cooking areas offer a wide selection of delicious fusions of different culinary disciplines coupled with garden fresh fruits and vegetables. A tastefully decorated main bar is located against the rear wall of the lounge.

Additional camp amenities include babysitting, board games, a children’s menu, mosquito netting, bedroom kettles. Activities include game drives, nature walks, birdwatching, flying safaris, bush dining, and more. WiFi is available in public areas.