SSL winner

We are excited to announce the winner of our last Trivia Triumph, where participants had the chance to win a two-night stay for two at Samburu Sopa Lodge on full-board basis.

The challenge was to answer: Which famous Samburu elephant matriarch (a frequent visitor of Samburu Sopa Lodge and studied by Save the Elephants), was immortalized in wildlife documentaries? The first closest answer wins…

Congratulations, Rodger Elmo’re from Premier Safaris. We look forward to welcoming you for your well-deserved stay. The correct answer is Echo/Satao.

 

Samburu Sopa Lodge Planetarium

On the magical evening of September 7th, we proudly unveiled our new planetarium, a pioneering step into Kenya’s Astro-tourism landscape that invites guests to explore the cosmos from the heart of Samburu. The launch coincided with a rare celestial spectacle, a total lunar eclipse, commonly known as a Blood Moon, perfectly aligned with Saturn in the night sky, offering an unforgettable experience under the stars.

The event was officially opened by Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, and graced by distinguished guests including Samburu County Governor Jonathan Lati Lelelit, Prof. Erustus Kanga of Kenya Wildlife Service, Brig. Hillary Kipkosgey of the Kenya Space Agency, Allan Njoroge of the Kenya Tourism Board, Amb. Diana Kiambuthi from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Kimani Wa Nyoike of Leo Sky Africa, alongside key tourism leaders.

Other important partners who joined in celebrating this milestone included Safarilink Aviation and Sense of Africa.

This launch marks a new chapter for Sopa Lodges, where wild safari meets the stars. Plan your visit and experience Astro, a night under the stars, exclusively at Samburu Sopa Lodge.

 

music festival

At Sopa Lodges, our connection to the communities surrounding our properties runs deeper than hospitality, it is a shared journey of growth, learning, and celebration. One of the ways we continue to support this journey is through our partnership with Oloolaimutia Primary School, located near Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

In July, we had the privilege of hosting the school’s top-performing students and their dedicated teachers for a motivational lunch just before their second term exams. It was a moment to recognize their hard work, encourage their aspirations, and remind them that their efforts are seen and valued.

Just weeks later, on August 3rd, we were honored to support the school once again by fueling their journey to Meru for the National Music Festivals. Representing the Rift Valley Region, these talented students showcased their passion, discipline, and proudly emerged third in the national rankings. Their achievement is a testament to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and community support.

We believe that investing in education and the arts is investing in the future. Whether it’s through a shared meal or a bus ride to a national stage, we are proud to stand beside the young minds who are shaping tomorrow.

NSL Boatride

Aqua Gastronomy – Where Water Meets Flavour

Aqua Gastronomy is a unique experience that combines food, nature and relaxation by the shores of Lake Naivasha.

The day begins with a peaceful lakeside breakfast, where you can enjoy sunrise, smell of fresh coffee and the sounds of birds in the morning mist. After breakfast, take a boat ride across the lake and to spot local wildlife, like kingfishers, cormorants, African fish eagles, and hippos resting near the papyrus.

Later, try your hand at fishing on the lake before joining a guided tour of our fish farm. Here, you will learn more about sustainable fishing and how your fresh catch goes from lake to plate. As evening sets in, guests gather on the deck for the highlight of the day, our "Fishy Affair" dinner experience. With help from our chefs, you will season, grill, and plate your own freshly caught fish. Enjoy it with a glass of wine, good company and the peaceful sounds of nature all around you.

As the night winds down, listen to the gentle calls of hippos across the water, a perfect ending to a memorable day by the lake!

 

SSL NightTimeBar

Once associated with royal lineage in ancient stories, this celestial giant appearing on clear dark nights, has long been a favorite target for stargazers and astro-photographers in the Northern Hemisphere. What is it?

The first answer wins…

How to Participate:

Send your answers to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. on or before 17th October 2025. Multiple submissions are allowed, but only one answer per email address. The winner will be contacted on email.

Terms and Conditions

  • The first closest answer wins.
  • The voucher is valid for six months from the date of issue, excluding all public holidays, high-season dates and festive periods.
  • This voucher may not, under any circumstances, be used for any form of advertising, including but not limited to online/digital advertising, pre-printed material or any general form of promotion.
  • Room bookings are subject to availability.
  • All participants must consent to the publication of their images on our website by signing the consent form.

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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