SSL sundowner

"Have you ever wondered about the roots of bush dinners? This delightful tradition hails from Africa’s rich outdoor culinary heritage, particularly in East and Southern Africa. It emerged as a way to savour meals amidst the breathtaking wilderness, often during exciting safaris."

"Historically, bush dinners began as nourishment for hunters who couldn’t bring their kill home after a long day. Meals typically included fresh meat, stew, and vegetables. This time also provided an opportunity for Indigenous communities to gather around fires, sharing delicious food and stories, deepening their connection to nature and one another. While this experience has evolved from rustic to a more luxurious concept, many traditional elements remain. This idea elegantly combines the communal spirit with gourmet flair, allowing diners to savour fresh, local ingredients and enjoy breathtaking landscapes."

"At lodges and safari camps, bush dining has become a celebrated experience, where guests dine under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature."

"Join us at Samburu Sopa Lodge to experience bush dining for yourself. The Samburu sky is clear almost year-round, adding a special lustre to the outdoor dining experience, enhanced by the dazzling stars. Complete your evening with vibrant traditional Samburu dancers, who bring an extra touch of magic to your meal."

"Do not miss this extraordinary culinary adventure.” Sospeter Karanja - General Manager, Samburu Sopa Lodge

Astro-Tourism FAQs

What is Astro-tourism?

It is stargazing with a twist, combining astronomy, culture and nature under Samburu’s darkest night skies.

Why is Samburu the Ideal destination for stargazing?

  • Kenya is located on the equator, which allows VVIP views of both the Northern and the Southern Hemispheres.
  • Our unique geo-location; Samburu has clear, unpolluted and uninterrupted night skies that allow for clear views of the skies and its celestial bodies.
  • Samburu community has deep cultural knowledge, values and stories making it the ideal destination for this new innovation.

What can I experience at the lodge?

Private dinner under the stars, guided stargazing session using powerful telescopes,binoculars, storytelling around the bonfire while using laser pointers and Planetarium sessions.

Is there a planetarium?

Yes! A manyatta-shaped planetarium offers an immersive sky show session.

Who leads the stargazing sessions?

An Astro-physicist and trained Sopa cultural astronomers blending science with cultural insights.

Can I combine this with a safari?

Absolutely! During the day, you can enjoy exciting game drives where you will have the chance to spot the Samburu Special Five (Grevy’s zebra, Reticulated giraffe, Gerenuk, Somali ostrich and Beisa oryx), rare species found exclusively in the Samburu region. In addition to wildlife viewing, the area is home to an incredible variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for bird watching and bird photography enthusiasts. You can also explore the landscape on guided nature walks, offering an even deeper connection with the environment. All of this blends seamlessly with magical celestial nights, where stargazing under Samburu’s vast, unpolluted skies becomes the perfect way to end your day.

Is it family friendly?

Yes! Kids and adults alike can enjoy telescope viewing, constellation tracing and cultural tales.

Do I need special gear?

No, telescopes, binoculars, and laser pointers are provided as part of the experience.

Is it available year round?

Yes, with special events during eclipses, meteor showers and seasonal celestial highlights.

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