Every great hospitality journey is built on a willingness to serve, the courage to overcome challenges and the determination to make a difference. For Walter Muriithi, our Lodge Manager at Samburu Sopa Lodge, his journey with us has been a testament to these values. From delivering exceptional guest experiences while overseeing Front Office operations at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge to embracing a broader vision of leadership, innovation and community impact at Samburu.

Walter joined Sopa Lodges on 16th October 2019, bringing with him 15 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. His journey began at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge as Front Office Manager, where he quickly recognised that memorable hospitality goes beyond meeting expectations; it is about building trust, nurturing relationships and making every guest feel valued.

During his five years in Mara, Walter championed a culture of service excellence that led to an increase in the lodge’s Guest Satisfaction Index. His commitment to enhancing the guest experience extended to introducing massage services as a new revenue stream, alongside numerous other initiatives aimed at improving employee welfare. In 2024, his efforts earned him the distinction of Manager of the Year, the first time the award was presented at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

In June 2025, Walter began an exciting new chapter as Lodge Manager at Samburu Sopa Lodge, taking on a unique opportunity to develop Astro-tourism. By embracing this innovative offering, which combines guided stargazing with immersive planetarium experiences, he has positioned the lodge as a destination where the magic of a traditional safari meets the wonder of the night sky.

Through collaboration with our sustainability arm, Land & Life Foundation, he supports initiatives that create opportunities for neighbouring communities including local enterprise through a community gift shop, medical services, menstrual health programmes, school feeding initiatives, training and employment opportunities.