Samburu Sopa Lodge
Samburu Sopa Lodge is a spacious lodge located in the heart of Samburu National Reserve, overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River. The lodge offers 60 guest rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar. It is an excellent base for game drives to see the Samburu Special Five – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich.
Overview
Samburu Sopa Lodge is designed in a traditional manyatta style, with circular buildings and thatched roofs. The lodge is set on a hillside, offering stunning views of the surrounding plains and the Ewaso Nyiro River. The lodge is known for its large swimming pool, which has a sunken pool bar, and a waterhole that attracts elephants and other wildlife.
Location & Getting There
Samburu Sopa Lodge is located inside Samburu National Reserve, approximately 340 km from Nairobi (6 hours’ drive). It is also accessible by air via Samburu airstrip (45 minutes’ flight from Wilson Airport).
Key Amenities
60 Guest Rooms
Spacious rooms with ensuite bathrooms, mosquito nets, and private verandas overlooking the river or plains.
Outdoor Swimming Pool
Large pool with a sunken bar – perfect for cooling off between game drives.
Restaurant & Bar
Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The bar serves a selection of drinks and has a fireplace.
Waterhole
A natural waterhole near the lodge attracts elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife throughout the day.
Gift Shop
Sells local crafts, safari gear, and souvenirs.
Complimentary WiFi
Available in the main lodge area (limited connectivity).
Accommodation
The lodge has 60 rooms, each with a private veranda, mosquito net, ceiling fan, and ensuite bathroom with a shower and hot water. Room categories include:
Standard Room
Double or twin beds, garden or river views.
Family Room
Two interconnected rooms, ideal for families.
Dining & Bars
Main Restaurant
Buffet‑style meals with a mix of local and international cuisine. Special dietary requests can be accommodated.
Pool Bar
Sunken bar in the pool, serving drinks and light snacks.
Bush Breakfasts & Sundowners
Arranged on request for a unique dining experience in the reserve.
Activities & Nearby Attractions
Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives in Samburu National Reserve. Look for the Samburu Special Five, elephants, lions, and leopards.
Ewaso Nyiro River
The river is a lifeline for the reserve – excellent for spotting crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.
Bird Watching
Over 350 bird species recorded, including Somali ostriches, vultures, and kingfishers.
Samburu Village Visit
Cultural tour to a nearby Samburu village, including traditional dances and beadwork.
Buffalo Springs National Reserve
Adjacent reserve with similar wildlife, accessible for day trips.
Night Game Drives
Available in the reserve (subject to lodge arrangements).
Conservation & Community
Samburu Sopa Lodge supports local community projects and employs staff from nearby villages. The lodge also contributes to wildlife conservation efforts in the reserve.