Tarangire LobbyAreaAroundtheBar

Just 129 km from Arusha, Tarangire Sopa Lodge is more than a destination, it is a sanctuary sculpted into the soul of Tarangire National Park. Located beneath towering baobabs and shaped like an elephant’s head, the lodge pays homage to the park’s famed residents, Africa’s largest concentration of elephants. Whether you are gliding through golden grasslands on a game drive, savoring a bush dinner, or enjoying a quiet moment in the library, every experience here is steeped in nature’s grandeur. Guests unwind with a selection of board games, and warm hospitality that makes every moment feel like home.

And not to be missed: the soulful Tarangire Melodies, a choir of Tarangire Sopa Lodge staff members whose soothing harmonies fill the evening air, creating unforgettable moments of cultural connection.

Tarangire Sopa Lodge is not just a place to stay, rather where adventure meets serenity, and every corner invites you to connect with the wild.

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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