As we celebrate 40 years of excellence, we not only look at the milestones that shaped our journey but also honour the people whose memories and experiences helped build the story we tell today. Among those voices is Ms.Minka Ramji, a cherished member of the extended Wissanji family, who graciously shared vivid recollections of the early days of our properties in Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Tanzania.
Her memories offer a rare and personal glimpse into the founding spirit of Sopa Lodges, from the opening of Masai Mara Sopa Lodge to the growth of our East African portfolio. These stories reveal to us that Sopa Lodges was not just built as a hospitality brand; but as a community. In her recollections, Ms. Minka paints a picture of the early years with warmth and humour. The long walks between rooms, the stewards carrying heavy suitcases, the first gardens planted by hand and the unforgettable encounters with wildlife that defined life in the Maasai Mara.
Masai Mara Sopa Lodge officially welcomed its very first guests on the 8th of August,1986; with only the right wing of the lodge operational. She recalls the team work that emerged from daily operations, the closeness shared among neighbouring properties and the role of Sopa lodges as a training ground for many who went on to shape the wider hospitality industry.
The team placed great importance not only on personally welcoming guests upon arrival, but also on seeing them off at departure. It was this latter gesture that our founding chairman took particular pride in, as it reflected his gracious nature and the warmth with which he hosted guests in what he considered his own home.
These are more than just stories about a lodge. They are stories of the people, the destination and the shared vision that flourished through the hard work, dedication and unwavering belief of those who were there from the very beginning. Every guest was welcomed with genuine warmth, every challenge was met with creativity and resilience and every success was achieved through teamwork and a shared commitment to excellence.
Ms.Minka’s memories offer a fascinating glimpse into how much has changed over the years,from the days of travellers’ cheques and radio calls to the modern, seamless hospitality experience we proudly offer across our properties today. Yet, as we celebrate 40 years, one thing has remained constant: our unwavering commitment to warm hospitality and unforgettable experiences.In the Maasai language, Sopa means “Hello” or “Welcome”. For four decades, that simple greeting has embodied our promise to welcome every guest with genuine warmth, heartfelt care and a true sense of belonging. It is a promise that has defined who we are from the very beginning and continues to guide us into the future.