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Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge

Serengeti Sopa Lodge


2°35’49.0"S 34°40’43.6"E

About Serengeti Sopa Lodge

The 73-room Serengeti Sopa Lodge, located in the south-western section of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, ...

... is spread out along the top of a hill with views across the Serengeti plains. It is one of the larger lodges in the Serengeti, and is frequently busy with big tour groups.

Serengeti Sopa Lodge is a fun and bright – albeit not very stylish. It is in a great part of the Serengeti to watch the migration and to enjoy resident game with your own vehicle and guide. The staff are very friendly and, considering the size of the lodge, it feels quite personal. It is also good value and family friendly, so for those who prefer a hotel-style lodge – with all the amenities of a large hotel – to a smaller intimate tented camp, this is a really good option.

Our view

Serengeti Sopa Lodge is a fun and bright – albeit not very stylish. It is in a great part of the Serengeti to watch the migration and to enjoy resident game with your own vehicle and guide. The staff are very friendly and, considering the size of the lodge, it feels quite personal. It is also good value and family friendly, so for those who prefer a hotel-style lodge – with all the amenities of a large hotel – to a smaller intimate tented camp, this is a really good option.

Lyndsey Marris

Lyndsey Marris

Country manager: Tanzania

Accommodation

69 rooms; 4 suites

Children

Fine for all ages

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Serengeti Sopa Lodge

3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


100%
3 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
3
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Ashkan SfromUSA

Arrived 29 Sep 2017, 3 nights

"Great stay."

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms SfromBristol

Arrived 18 Jun 2013, 3 nights

"Serengeti Sopa Lodge review"

"Very comfortable hotel right in the middle of the Serengeti. Wonderful …" Read Ms S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

The S familyfromLewes

Arrived 20 Dec 2012, 2 nights

"Serengeti Sopa Lodge review"

"The rooms were very nicely laid out and finished (of the 3 Sopa lodges the …" Read The S family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Serengeti Sopa Lodge reviews

Serengeti Sopa Lodge: Our full report

The 73-room Serengeti Sopa Lodge, located in the south-western section of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, ...

... is spread out along the top of a hill with views across the Serengeti plains. It is one of the larger lodges in the Serengeti, and is frequently busy with big tour groups.

Opened in 1992, the Serengeti Sopa Lodge is part of the Sopa chain which also includes the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge and Tarangire Sopa Lodge. Large yet fairly personal, it is accessed up a steep, rocky track in a bushy part of the Serengeti National Park.

There are 69 standard rooms and four suites at the lodge. All are located in two wings on either side of the main area and accessed from long, open corridors.

  • The standard rooms – eight of them inter-connecting, so suitable for families – are set on two floors. All are very similar: simple, functional and rather dated. On the plus side though, they are spacious and comfortable with huge glass windows to make the most of the views and sliding doors that lead out to a balcony.

    Each room is entered via a lobby furnished with a table and chair and a minibar that is filled on request. In the bedroom, with sisal carpet on the floors, you'll find two double beds with mosquito netting along with clothes hanging space, a digital safe and a hairdryer.The en-suite bathrooms are decorated in bright-blue mosaic tiles with yellow walls and have a flush toilet, a single basin and a spacious shower.
  • The four suites are double-storey and much larger than the standard rooms. They, too, are entered via their own lobbies but here the décor is incredibly bright with vibrant primary colours. There is a lounge on the ground floor with a baraza bench and a small café-style table plus a tea and coffee bar and a sink. A spiral staircase leads to the bedroom and bathroom upstairs. Both the lounge and bedroom have plenty of space to relax, including numerous sofas and a king-size platform bed, and both have a balcony – though the one upstairs is very small and shadeless. In addition there's a curiously conceived outdoor space at the back of the bedroom, leading off the double-shower room.

    The suites are kitted out in a similar way to the standard rooms with the addition of a standing fan for hot evenings. The en-suite bathroom has double basins, large twin showers and a flushing toilet – and there is a large bath actually in the bedroom!
The main areas – including the reception, lounge, dining area and bar – are light and airy, and decorated in bright colours like the suites. At the front are large floor-to-ceiling windows and french doors with views over the Serengeti. Note that there is a strict no-smoking policy in all the public rooms at Serengeti Sopa.

The main bar, the Agama Bar, features a terracotta cement floor, brightly coloured walls and upholstered wrought-iron chairs and tables. There are large windows on three sides, maximising the fantastic views beyond, and a shady terrace has more tables and chairs. The dining room has a long buffet area to one side, where most meals are served. The hotel has good wheelchair access throughout.

In front of the lawn, a large swimming pool, surrounded by cream-coloured sunloungers and sunshades, is overlooked by a sizeable and well-stocked pool bar. The lodge also has a small gym (with cross-trainer, bench press and step machine, and great views to gaze on as you sweat), a TV room and a curio shop. The Sopa Lodge can also cater for conferences, with a large conference room able to cater for up to 100 people.

Serengeti Sopa is in a particularly good spot to see the wildebeest migration passing through around May, and has good resident game all year round. It
does not have any of its own guides, however, so you will need to organise game drives with your own private vehicle.

Geographics

Location
Serengeti Migration Area, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
2–3 nights is ideal, especially during the migration, to explore this part of the Serengeti.
Directions
Serengeti Sopa Lodge is a one-hour drive (61km) from the Serengeti Naabi Hill gate and about a 50-minute drive (45km) from Seronera Airstrip; however most guests will drive here with their own vehicle and guide.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board
Food quality
We last visited Serengeti Sopa Lodge in February 2018 we did not have chance to eat, however in the past we have found the food to consistently be of a reasonable standard, not particularly fancy, but tasty and filling . For the main meals, where there are fewer than 60 guests at the lodge, the service at lunch and dinner is a la carte. When more guests are in-house, a buffet system is standard.

The breakfast is always a buffet with cereals, fruit, yoghurt and bread. There is also a selection of hot items such as bacon, sausage, baked beans, tomatoes and eggs cooked to order.

Most guests spend a full day game viewing in the park, and are provided with a packed lunch. For those staying at the lodge, lunch is a three-course meal, with choices for each course. On a previous visit we had chicken satay with a sweet chilli dip and then clear vegetable soup to start. The main course was a choice of beefburger and fries, pan-fried red snapper or chilli chicken quesadilla. For dessert we could opt for either a strawberry mousse or a fruit platter.

Dinner is usually à la carte and served to the table, although it will be a buffet if the lodge is full . Occasionally they have special themed nights. On a previous visit we had a really tasty Africa buffet, which included Ethiopian beef stew, chapati, ugali (thick corn porridge) and kachumbari (tomato and onion salad).

The lodge can arrange for special meals such as bush lunches, private poolside dining or BBQ nights (for 50+ guests), all at an extra cost of US$40–70 per person.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Serengeti Sopa Lodge can do room service on request, but there are no phones in the rooms so it has to be arranged in advance.
Drinks included
Drinks are not included, but you can expect to pay about US$4 for a beer or US$30 for a bottle of wine.

Drinking water is supplied in bottles, which are brought in from Arusha.

Children

Attitude towards children
Serengeti Sopa Lodge welcomes children of all ages
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions at the Serengeti Sopa Lodge.
Special activities & services
Games are available in the TV room and there is also a swimming pool to keep children entertained during the heat of the day.

Childminding is available, but parents should note that the housekeeping staff are not professionally trained in childcare. The Serengeti Sopa Lodge can also do special meals for children.
Equipment
Serengeti Sopa Lodge has cots and high chairs.
Generally recommended for children
Yes
Notes
The pool is large with an expansive lounge area, requiring parental supervision of children. Some rooms have high balconies of which parents should be aware.

Communications

Power supply notes
Power is available 24 hours a day. Most electricity comes via solar panels, however a backup generator is also used.
Communications
Free WiFi is available in the main areas, and we are told that there are plans to make WiFi available in the bedrooms.
TV & radio
Serengeti Sopa Lodge has a TV room with satellite television.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
Bathrooms are fully plumbed. Hot water for showers is available from 6.00–9.00am and from 6.00–9.00pm.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Serengeti Sopa Lodge has a resident health professional whose services are free. They also have links to flying doctors in case of medical emergency.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There are plenty of askaris (guards) around the property 24 hours a day. Guests are escorted to their rooms at night in case of wildlife wandering around. A TANAPA (Tanzanian National Parks) ranger is permanently located at the lodge.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in the main areas and between the rooms. Evacuation notices with the assembly point indicated are posted in all the rooms. There is also a fire-break around the lodge.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
In Place
Laundry facilities
Laundry is available at an extra charge of around US$1 per item.
Money
Serengeti Sopa Lodge can exchange small amounts of cash in US dollars, euros and British pounds.
Accepted payment on location
You can usually settle your bill in US dollars, British pounds, euros or Tanzanian shillings cash. You can also use Visa, Mastercard and Amex at no additional charge.

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Serengeti Sopa Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Serengeti Sopa Lodge.


Excursions from Serengeti Sopa Lodge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Serengeti Sopa Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Three hours - approx. one hour flight

As the sun rises over the Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania, climb aboard for an extraordinary adventure. For an hour you’ll float in a hot air balloon over beautiful savannah and woodland and a diversity of plains wildlife.

More about Balloon Safari
100% (20 reviews)

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When to go to Serengeti Migration Area

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Serengeti Sopa Lodge in Serengeti Migration Area


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Serengeti Migration Area in January

January marks the start of the Serengeti’s short dry season. In the southern plains, the wildebeest calving season takes centre stage, drawing both predators and eager wildlife enthusiasts. The weather is generally clear and sunny, with rising temperatures, though occasional rainfall may still occur in the southern areas. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during this time, with resident species in their breeding plumage and migratory birds adding to the variety.

The far southern plains of Ndutu coupled with the central Seronera area remains a reliable choice for game viewing, with lions and cheetahs frequently sighted on the hunt. While the park can be busier early in the month due to New Year visitors, it often becomes quieter later, providing excellent value and a more peaceful experience. Patience may be needed during game drives, as some wildlife becomes more dispersed.

  • Variable weather: clear, dry or rainy
  • Thunderstorms may occur occasionally
  • Prime birding season with migrant species
  • Wildebeest gathering in southern Serengeti
  • Busy early, quieter later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Serengeti Migration Area in February

February in the Serengeti is hot, with daytime highs reaching around 33°C/91°F, but cooling down significantly in the evening and overnight. It's an excellent time to visit as the northern circuit is comparatively quieter than during peak seasons. The wildebeest calving season, typically occurring in a two-three week window in early-mid February, is a major attraction. Thousands of calves are born daily, attracting a significant number of predators, creating an intense yet fascinating spectacle.

Birdlife is equally vibrant, as migratory species from the northern hemisphere join the park's resident birds. The Ndutu region is especially active, hosting an abundance of wildlife. Hot air balloon safaris offer unparalleled views of the action below. Despite the midday heat, early morning game drives remain comfortable and highly rewarding.

  • Hot and dry weather conditions prevail
  • Wildebeest calving in southern plains
  • Southern Serengeti busy for migration
  • Lush, green landscapes across the park
  • Ideal for wildlife photography

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Serengeti Migration Area in March

March typically sees the arrival of the long rains in the Serengeti, though the exact timing can vary each year. With water becoming more plentiful, migratory animals begin to spread out, making wildlife spotting a bit more challenging in certain areas. The Seronera Valley remains a reliable choice for sightings, thanks to its consistent water sources.

The rains bring a dramatic transformation to the landscape, with lush greenery emerging across the plains, offering stunning photographic opportunities. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, as many species are in their vibrant breeding plumage. Although some mobile tented camps begin winding down operations in preparation for the next season, visitors can still enjoy the park’s quieter atmosphere and its renewed natural beauty.

  • Hot with increasing humidity pre-rains
  • Wildlife viewing varies as rains begin
  • Park quieter with lower visitor numbers
  • Excellent time for bird watching
  • Green vegetation provides scenic backdrops

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Serengeti Migration Area in April

April tends to be the wettest month in the Serengeti, with rainfall averaging around 250mm. The park is transformed into a verdant oasis, alive with birds, insects, and smaller wildlife. However, the dense vegetation can make spotting animals more difficult. Visitor numbers are at their lowest, allowing for a more exclusive safari experience and there can be some good emerald season bargains to be had.

The wildebeest migration typically begins slowly moving toward the Western Corridor, and patient travellers can witness fascinating sights such as newborn animals and predators on the hunt. Rising water levels make the Retina Hippo Pool particularly active. Birdwatching continues to be excellent, and many lodges offer reduced rates, making it an appealing time for those willing to brave occasional downpours.

  • Heavy rains with impressive thunderstorms
  • Some camps closed due to weather
  • Lowest rates and fewest tourists
  • Vibrant greenery, wildlife more dispersed
  • Not ideal for general wildlife viewing

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Serengeti Migration Area in May

As the month of May progresses, the rains start to taper off across the Serengeti and temperatures drop slightly. Visitor numbers remain low, and lodge rates are often highly competitive, making it a great time for more value-conscious travellers. The wildebeest migration usually still heading towards the Western Corridor, with some herds nearing the Grumeti River and others still milling around the central area of the park. Predator-prey interactions become more frequent as animals navigate the changing environment.

The Moru Kopjes region offers particularly rewarding wildlife encounters, including the chance to spot black rhinos. The park’s vegetation is at its lushest, providing breathtaking backdrops for photographers. Balloon safaris during this time give a spectacular view of the green plains and migrating herds.

  • Rains continue, creating dramatic skies
  • Quiet period, great for avoiding crowds
  • Lush landscapes with long grasses
  • Wildlife more dispersed, fewer sightings
  • Affordable safari options available

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in May

Serengeti Migration Area in June

June signals the end of the rainy season in the Serengeti, with the landscape beginning to dry out. Wildlife starts to gather around permanent water sources, and the Grumeti River becomes a key location for dramatic river crossings. Before the wildebeest migration heads north, the Western Corridor remains a hub of activity.

Many camps will offer shoulder season rates in June, meaning that this is also a more affordable time to visit than later in the year. The Lobo Valley in the north also becomes a productive area for wildlife viewing. With shorter grasses and clearer conditions, June is an excellent time for walking safaris in designated areas. The balance of good weather, exciting wildlife action, and moderate tourist numbers makes it a great month to visit.

  • Weather varies: clear, dry or some rain
  • Migration moving from west to north
  • Parks still green with high grasses
  • Wildlife becoming more concentrated
  • Good value shoulder season prices

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in June

Serengeti Migration Area in July

July is the start of peak season in the Serengeti, with little to no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the park dries, wildlife congregates in fewer areas, improving game viewing opportunities. The wildebeest migration typically reaches the northern Serengeti, with herds beginning to cross the Mara River. This spectacle draws many visitors, making the northern areas busier.

The Seronera area remains excellent for big cat sightings. In the western corridor, resident game becomes easier to spot as vegetation thins. Balloon safaris are particularly popular this month, offering breathtaking views of the migrating herds. Despite the crowds, July offers some of the year's best wildlife viewing opportunities across the park.

  • Dry days, chilly mornings and evenings
  • Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Peak season with increasing visitor numbers
  • Highest prices due to prime conditions
  • Great Migration in full swing

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Serengeti Migration Area in August

August in the Serengeti is characterised by clear skies and sunny weather, though cooler nights and mornings call for layered clothing for early morning game drives. It's an extremely popular time to visit, with accommodation prices at their peak. The northern Serengeti is particularly busy as visitors hope to witness migration river crossings – with the Mara and Sand rivers becoming focal points for dramatic wildlife interactions.

In the central Serengeti, predator sightings remain good around the Seronera River. The park's southern regions are now much drier, home to excellent resident game and now fewer visitors. Balloon safaris provide stunning aerial views of the landscape and wildlife. While August is a very busy time, the consistent wildlife activity and reliable weather make it a fantastic month to visit.

  • Dry climate, cool mornings and evenings
  • Superb general wildlife viewing
  • Exciting wildebeest migration period
  • Very busy, camps fill up quickly
  • Dramatic river crossings may occur

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Serengeti Migration Area in September

September continues the Serengeti’s dry season, with wildlife becoming increasingly concentrated around the few remaining water sources. The northern Serengeti still hosts the wildebeest migration, with river crossings at the Mara River offering dramatic predator-prey interactions. The Seronera Valley remains an excellent spot for sightings of resident predators, while the now-parched southern plains offer good chances to see cheetahs.

As the month progresses, visitor numbers begin to drop slightly, making it a quieter time to explore. Birdwatching remains rewarding, and walking safaris provide a more intimate wildlife experience. September’s pleasant weather and exceptional wildlife viewing make it a very good time to visit.

  • Fantastic wildlife viewing conditions
  • Slightly less crowded than peak months
  • Parks becoming dry with less vegetation
  • Pleasant temperatures throughout day
  • Prices remain high for quality safaris

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Serengeti Migration Area in October

October marks the tail end of the dry season in the Serengeti. Wildlife gathers around the last water sources, creating fantastic viewing opportunities. The Mara River may still see some migration activity, while the central Seronera region continues to deliver reliable predator sightings. In the western corridor, large herds of elephants are a highlight, and the dry southern plains can sometimes offer very good opportunities to spot cheetah.

Birdwatching is rewarding, with many resident species easily spotted. Balloon safaris offer breathtaking views of the parched landscape – though photographers need to be prepared for dusty conditions. Prices remain high, but visitor numbers are lower than in July-Sept, providing a more exclusive safari experience.

  • Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
  • Excellent game viewing opportunities
  • Landscape may appear somewhat barren
  • Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
  • Chance to see predator action at its best

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Serengeti Migration Area in November

November usually signals the start of the short rains in the Serengeti. While lighter and more sporadic than the long rains, they rejuvenate the landscape with fresh grass growth. Wildlife begins to disperse as water becomes more readily available, but game viewing remains strong, particularly in the central Seronera area.

The wildebeest herds start their journey southward from the Mara region, creating opportunities for unique sightings. Birdwatching is excellent, with the arrival of migratory species adding to the variety. Some mobile camps in the north close temporarily, but those who visit in November can enjoy great value with lower rates and quieter conditions.

  • Variable weather: clear, dry or rainy
  • Parks quieter with lower-end prices
  • Some camps close for maintenance
  • Wildlife disperses as rains begin
  • Migration movement less predictable

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Serengeti Migration Area in December

December is a transition month in the Serengeti, falling within the short rainy season. The rains bring life to the southern plains, attracting the wildebeest herds and the predators that follow them. The Ndutu region becomes a focal point for wildlife activity.

Temperatures are comfortable, averaging around 27°C/81°F, with the possibility of occasional thunderstorms. Birdwatching is outstanding, with many migratory species adding to the diversity. Early December offers good value, with lower prices and fewer visitors, but the festive season sees a surge in demand, requiring early bookings. Balloon safaris provide stunning views of the rejuvenated landscape, making December an exciting time to visit the park.

  • Weather varies: dry, rainy, or stormy
  • Good game viewing in central Serengeti
  • Quiet early, extremely busy late month
  • Prices rise sharply for holiday season
  • Green season begins, landscapes refresh

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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