Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Tarangire Sopa Lodge, located deep within the expanses of Tarangire National Park, is a testament to how luxury can coexist with the natural world. This lodge has been meticulously designed to merge with the landscape – hidden among ancient baobabs, rocky kopjes, and the endless savannah, it’s where guests can encounter Africa’s largest concentration of elephants. The architecture is inspired by the environment; the circular suites with their high, conical roofs not only provide a cool refuge but also an aesthetic that echoes the park’s natural formations.

Inside, the lodge surprises with its grandeur – from the moment you step into the lobby with its marble floors and high ceilings, to the dining areas where each meal is an event, framed by views of the park or under the stars on the terrace. The experience here is one of immersion; wild animals, particularly elephants, are free to wander close to the lodge, adding an element of thrill to everyday activities like moving to your room at night, always escorted by a guard for safety.

Location

Situated in the heart of Tarangire National Park, Tarangire Sopa Lodge is about 32 km from the park’s entrance and roughly a two-hour drive from Arusha. It’s an ideal base for exploring this 2,850 km² park, known for its diverse landscape from riverine habitats to acacia woodlands. For those opting for air travel, a short 20-minute flight from Arusha to Kuro airstrip, followed by a 40-minute drive, brings you to this safari haven. The park’s unique ecosystem and the Tarangire River’s perennial waters make it a year-round wildlife spectacle, especially noted for its elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and over 550 bird species.

Accommodation

The lodge boasts 75 rooms, each a sanctuary designed for comfort:

• Guest Rooms: Featuring two queen-size beds under mosquito nets, a private lounge, mini-bar, and a balcony for viewing the park. Rooms come equipped with modern amenities like ceiling fans, safes, and coffee/tea facilities.
• Special Rooms: Including four wheelchair-accessible rooms and four interconnecting rooms for families, ensuring inclusivity and comfort for all guests.
• Room Features: Air-conditioned with flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms, providing a luxurious yet connected-to-nature experience.

Dining

Dining at Tarangire Sopa is an integral part of the experience:

• Restaurant: Offers meals in settings that range from the art-decorated dining room to outdoor terraces, with menus that highlight both local and international cuisine.
• Outdoor Dining: Lunch by the pool or dinner under the stars on the patio, where the ambiance is as much a part of the meal as the food itself.
• Unique Dining Events: Sundowners, bush dinners, and special dining setups for an unforgettable taste of Africa.

Amenities

• Outdoor Pool: Perfect for relaxation with views of the park’s landscape.
• Lounge and Bar: Where guests can unwind with a drink, enjoy games, or simply watch the park’s activity through expansive windows.
• Cultural and Recreational: Traditional dances, nature walks, game drives, and even the chance for a hot air balloon ride offer diverse activities.
• Service Enhancements: Including a gift shop, internet access, laundry services, and catering to special diets or needs like babysitting.
• Conference Room: For business in the bush, accommodating up to 80 in a theatre-style setup.