Sopa lodge is a haven deep inside Nakuru’s wilderness

Located 18 kilometres inside Lake Nakuru National Park, the earth road to the lodge traverses a heavily wooded and bushy grassland with wide ecological diversity. You will see baboons, antelopes, buffaloes and the odd giraffe pair. If you are lucky, you may see a leopard or lion.

Natural habitats

Through the natural habitats that range from the lake waters to the escarpment and ridges, travellers hardly notice the gentle uphill climb until three-quarters of the journey is covered, and the real climb and meandering begins.

The lodge sits on a range of lonely hills that form the western limits of the Rift Valley, offering a spectacular view of Nakuru town, the lake beneath and the surrounding national park.

It also overlooks Naishi airstrip, a 40-minute drive away, and Egerton University, Njoro.

The hotel has a big compound as well as ample parking. There is a large restaurant, a bar, two terraces, a recreational area and rooms, all uniquely designed in a conical shape.

Stepping out of the car, there is a sharp drop in temperature as expected in high altitude areas. A beaming member of staff is on hand to meet us, quickly ushering us into the reception for a quick drink before we pile into a motorised cart for the short trip to our rooms.

The brown pavements leading to the rooms contrast with the lush, well-manicured grass and young crop of trees. The pavements are designed to be wheelchair-friendly.

An electric fence separates the rooms from the rest of the park.

“Before we put up the fence, animals used to move around freely. But we thought it could be dangerous since some visitors like staying out late,” said Harrison Maina, the lodge manager.

Spacious rooms

The lodge boasts of 54 twin/double rooms and six single and triple rooms whose prices range from Sh18,000 to Sh26,000.

The spacious, brightly lit rooms with immaculately made beds have carved wooden shelves which hold a water heater and sachets of different beverage powders and flavourings. At the centre is a mini-sitting area where sofas surround a glass table with a bowl of fruit.

Full-length windows allow guests a panoramic view of the park, Lake Nakuru and beyond. There is a furnished private balcony accessed through a rear glass door. From here, one can see a brown pool where animals come for a dip and drink.

En-suite bathrooms

The rooms feature en-suite bathrooms with hair dryers, bathroom cabinets and a large, guitar-shaped mirror. There is also free wi-fi.

The lodge has a restaurant which offers African-themed foods with authentic cuisine. One of the most magical experiences is to dine in the bush as animal cries fill the air.

The menu is varied, and takes into consideration families with children who might require special dishes.

For recreation, the lodge has an infinity swimming pool overlooking the lake and park. Guest can also shoot pool or play board games.

Laundry service is provided for an extra charge.

“We will soon offer an unrivalled experience in corporate hospitality through our well-serviced and equipped conference halls,” said Mr Maina.