Introduction
Mara Sopa Lodge is a well-known accommodation nestled within the beautiful landscapes of the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. It is situated in the southwestern part of Kenya being at the edge of the reserve, providing guests with convenient access to the park’s wildlife and attractions. The lodge is located approximately 25 kilometers (about 15.5 miles) from the main entrance of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is 6hour drive from Nairobi. 1 hour flight from Wilson Airport to Keekorok airstrip. 1 hour transfer from the airstrip to the lodge. The lodge offers a captivating blend of luxury and authentic safari experience, ideal for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax amidst nature.
Accommodation and facilities
Mara Sopa Lodge offers a variety of room types to accommodate different preferences and group sizes. The lodge consist of 50 cottages which are divided into two wings flanking the main public areas. Six of the cottages each contain two suites with larger bedrooms and bathrooms, and both indoor and outdoor seating areas. The lodge also consist of a honeymoon suite which boasts an expansive, luxuriously appointed bedroom with a king-sized bed, dressing table and indoor seating area. Its lavish bathroom includes both shower and a sunken bath, and sheltered veranda offers magnificent views over African landscape.
Bar: It also has a bar area where guest can relax and enjoy a variety of beverages, often with a stunning view of the Mara landscape. The bar itself has an incredibly warm ambience; a sports-dedicated television; and a pool table. It also has a huge outdoor, timber deck from where you can view Hyenas, Mongooses and Honey badgers when they come to feast on the meat, we put out for them every night.
Swimming Pool: The lodge has a pool offering its guest a refreshing retreat after a day of safari or just for relaxation and enjoyment.
Entertainment: Evening entertainment is provided, including traditional Maasai dances and live music performances.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is on-site, offering souvenirs, Maasai crafts, and safari essentials.
Wi-Fi Access: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas, allowing guests to stay connected during their stay.
Related Safari Packages
3 Days Mara Christmas Bush Holiday
5 Days L. Nakuru, Naivasha & Mara Safari
3 Days Taste of Mara Flying Safari
Dining and cuisine
The lodge offers an on-site restaurant that serves a variety of local and international cuisine, including vegetarian, dairy-free, and halal options with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes highlighting the flavors of Kenya. Additionally, there’s an outdoor boma dining area for an authentic bush dining experience.
Wildlife and safari experience
Guest at Mara Sopa Lodge have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, including;
Game Drives: Guided safaris within the Maasai Mara, offering chances to see the Big Five (Lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) and other wildlife species.
Balloon Safaris: A hot air balloon ride over the savannah at dawn, culminating in a champagne breakfast served in the bush.
Cultural Visits: Opportunities to visit local Maasai villages to learn about their culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
Nature Walks: Guided walks around the lodge’s surroundings for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
Cultural and recreational activities
Cultural Visits: Opportunities to visit local Maasai villages to learn about their culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
Cultural Performances: The lodge occasionally hosts traditional Maasai dance performances. Guests can enjoy vibrant displays of music, dance, and song that celebrate Maasai culture, often involving audience participation.
Craft Workshops: Some programs may offer opportunities for guests to engage in handicrafts, such as beadwork or pottery, allowing visitors to create their own souvenirs while learning about the artistic traditions of the Maasai people.
Evening Sundown Drives: These drives provide guests with the chance to witness stunning sunsets over the savannah, often with opportunities to spot nocturnal wildlife as the day transitions into night.
Sustainabiliy and conservation efforts
Mara Sopa Lodge is committed to environmental conservation and community development. The lodge often engages initiatives to support local communities and promote sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that both the wildlife and local culture are preserved for future generations.
Accommodation rate
Mara Sopa Lodge offers a range of accommodation options with rates that vary based on room type and season.
Non-Resident Rates
| MASAI MARA SOPA LODGE | ||||
| Seasons | Single(usd) | Twin/Double(usd) | Triple(usd) | |
| High | FB | 319 | 491 | 626 |
| HB | 314 | 481 | 611 | |
| Mid | FB | 205 | 316 | 403 |
| HB | 200 | 306 | 388 | |
| Green | FB | 143 | 221 | 281 |
| HB | 138 | 211 | 266 | |
| MID SEASON | GREEN SEASON | ||||||||
| 2nd Jan- 31st March, 1st June-30th June | 1st April- 30th May | ||||||||
| Single | Twin/ Double | Triple | Quad | Single | Twin/Double | Triple | Quad | ||
| KENYA ( KSH) | |||||||||
| Masai Mara | FB | 19,500 | 26,800 | 29,200 | 40,200 | 14,500 | 19,900 | 21,700 | 29,800 |
How to get there
By Air
Flight to Nairobi: Book a flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi
Domestic flight to Maasai Mara: b From Nairobi, you can take a domestic flight to one of the airstrips near the Maasai Mara. Keekorok Airstrip and Mara Serena Airstrip are typically the nearest airstrip to Mara Sopa Lodge.
Transfer to the Lodge: Upon your arrival at the airstrip, you can arrange for a transfer via the lodge’s shuttle service, which is often included in your booking.
By Road
Self-Drive or Hire Vehicle: you can hire a 4*4 vehicle, which is recommended due to the road conditions in and around the Maasai Mara.
Route from Nairobi: From Nairobi, take the A104 highway towards Narok. After reaching Narok, continue on the road that leads to the Maasai Mara.
Entrance to the Park: Pay the park entrance fees at one of the gates (Sekenani Gate)
Drive to the Lodge: Follow the signs to navigate to Mara Sopa Lodge, which is located a short distance inside the park.
Conclusion
Mara Sopa Lodge stands as a remarkable destination that balances luxury with breathtaking beauty of Maasai Mara. Its commitment to sustainable tourism, combined with world-class amenities and wildlife experiences, offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Mara Sopa Lodge promises an enriching experience that lingers long after you stay.
Faqs About Mara Sopa Lodge
1.Where is Masai Mara Sopa Lodge located and how do I get there?
Masai Mara Sopa Lodge is situated on the slopes of the Oloolaimutia Hills, just outside the eastern boundary of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is approximately 250 kilometers from Nairobi, which is about a 4 to 6-hour drive, and about 105 kilometers from Narok. Guests can also fly from Nairobi to nearby airstrips such as Keekorok or Olkiombo, followed by a 30 to 60-minute transfer to the lodge.
2.What types of accommodation are available, and what amenities do the rooms offer?
The lodge features 50 traditional-style cottages housing 99 rooms including standard rooms, family suites, and a honeymoon suite. Rooms are equipped with queen or king-size beds, mosquito nets, private verandas with scenic views, en-suite bathrooms, electronic safes, and 24-hour electricity supported by solar backup. The honeymoon suite includes added luxuries such as a sunken bathtub and separate seating areas.
3.What dining and beverage facilities are offered?
The lodge offers buffet-style dining with a variety of cuisines including African, international, and vegetarian options. Meals are served in a large circular dining room with a fireplace and outdoor seating is available during themed dining nights. There are also three bars on-site—the Jumbo Bar, the Pool Bar, and the Ol Murrani Bar which offers a relaxing environment and views of wildlife at dusk.
4.What are the main facilities and services at the lodge?
Facilities at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge include a reception and gift shop, a guest lounge with a fireplace, a swimming pool, laundry services, conference facilities, Wi-Fi in public areas, a TV lounge, a handicraft market, and child-friendly services like children’s menus and board games. The lodge also offers cultural entertainment and sundowner experiences.
5.Which activities are available on-site or nearby?
Guests can participate in game drives in the Maasai Mara, enjoy bush breakfasts and dinners, take hot-air balloon safaris, go on guided nature walks, visit local Maasai villages, engage in bird-watching, and in some cases, enjoy night game drives in neighboring conservancies.
6.What is the child policy and are families welcome?
Yes, families are welcome at the lodge. Children under the age of 3 stay free of charge. Children between ages 3 and 16 sharing a room with adults are charged 50% of the adult rate, or 75% if in a separate room.
7.What are the room rates and what’s included?
Room rates vary by season. In low season, a single room can cost around USD 171, and a double about USD 252 per night, including full board but excluding park entry fees. In peak season, rates can rise to between USD 450 and 600. Kenyan resident packages for a 3-day stay can range from KES 46,900 to 65,600 per person depending on the season.
8.When can I check in and check out, and what’s the cancellation policy?
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM and check-out is by 10:00 AM. The cancellation policy generally applies in stages: a 15% charge if cancelled 60 to 31 days before arrival, 30% if cancelled 30 to 16 days before, and 100% if cancelled within 15 days of the scheduled arrival.
9.How do I make a reservation and who can I contact?
Bookings can be made through the Sopa Lodges central reservations office. The Kenya office can be contacted by phone or email for availability and rates.
