About Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Situated in a wooded valley in the north-eastern corner of Tanzania's Tarangire National Park, the 75-room, ...
... family-friendly Tarangire Sopa Lodge provides chain hotel-style accommodation in an accessible part of the park.
Although the main areas are dated, the recently renovated rooms are pleasantly decorated and comfortable. The staff are all very friendly and welcoming and the lodge is spotlessly clean and energetically managed. Bearing this in mind, we feel that Tarangire Sopa Lodge is a good option for travellers on a bit of a budget who wish to visit this lesser-known park.
Our view
Although the main areas are dated, the recently renovated rooms are pleasantly decorated and comfortable. The staff are all very friendly and welcoming and the lodge is spotlessly clean and energetically managed. Bearing this in mind, we feel that Tarangire Sopa Lodge is a good option for travellers on a bit of a budget who wish to visit this lesser-known park.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
75 rooms
Children
Suitable for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Tarangire Sopa Lodge
5 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryTarangire Sopa Lodge: Our full report
Situated in a wooded valley in the north-eastern corner of Tanzania's Tarangire National Park, the 75-room, ...
... family-friendly Tarangire Sopa Lodge provides chain hotel-style accommodation in an accessible part of the park.
The main areas, and rooms at the Tarangire Sopa Lodge are designed vaguely in the style of an African village, with circular buildings and tall conical roofs. Built in the 1990s, the décor is looking dated and there is rather a lot of bare concrete surfaces and inelegant structural features. Terracing runs right around the public areas. It's not graceful, but it is all pleasantly open and airy which, in a hot region, is very welcome.
On arrival (after appreciating the giant elephant-head front aspect of the building with its central trunk and two roofs for ears), you're greeted by the friendly staff at the reception desk. Opposite the reception is a small curio shop selling nature books and even a small range of toiletries and other essentials. In the middle of this foyer area, there's a sunken grotto with dusty-looking fountains.
Steps lead down to a large open lounge with plenty of comfortable seating areas. Floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides make this a very light and welcoming area to relax in, with views of the surrounding bush. To one side of the lounge is the bar with a few easy chairs and a snooker table. Tea and coffee are served here all day and cakes are on offer in the afternoon. Opposite the lounge is the restaurant, which is equally light and airy, and which seats up to 150. Parquet flooring and wooden chairs and tables make this a fairly characterless space that lacks much style or colour. At the far end is a large buffet area, from which most meals are served. To the front of the restaurant, glass doors lead onto a terrace overlooking the bush with tables and chairs shaded by umbrellas. To the other side, a door leads from the restaurant to an outdoor dining area, referred to as the barbecue terrace because a barbecue buffet is served here once a week.
At the far end, to the right of the central area, is a multi-purpose room with DSTV television.
In the gardens, the large circular swimming pool (no lifeguard) is spanned by a wooden bridge to a central island scattered with recliners and parasols – a lovely place to relax and unwind after a day in the bush. When visiting in October 2019 we were told that there are plans to refurbish the pool, however there is no projected completion date for this. Lunch is often served around the pool and at the far end, the pool bar is open all day serving refreshing drinks.
The gardens are nicely laid out and, with supervision, this is a good place for children to run around and let off steam. Quite a lot of wildlife can be seen around the lodge, with a couple of resident zebra roaming around and rock hyraxes running between the paths.
A tributary of the Tarangire River runs below the barbecue terrace, with a view of Tarangire Hill in the background.
The 75 rooms at Sopa Lodge are located on either side of the main area and built in blocks of four, with two rooms upstairs and two downstairs on the left wing and blocks of two ground-floor rooms on the right wing. The rooms can be set up as a double, twin or triple and include two inter-connecting rooms for families and four disabled rooms. Some have significantly better views than others and a couple are close to regularly-used animal tracks.
The rooms have been refurbished over the last couple of years. They have terracotta-tiled floors throughout and are entered via a lounge featuring a desk, chair and mirror. In a cabinet is a mini bar, which is filled on request. The wardrobe contains a digital safe. Each room has two queen-size beds hung with mosquito nets and scattered with African-print cushions. Behind each bed is a wall light and the bright African prints hanging on the walls add a modern feel. In the corner are two contemporary upholstered chairs and a small table. Each room comes with a DSTV television and tea and coffee facilities. Sliding glass doors lead to a small outdoor balcony with two chairs and a table.
The en-suite cream-tile bathrooms are light and modern and equipped with a single basin, toilet and spacious shower with a glass door. Each bathroom has a hairdryer and branded toiletries are also provided. You'll also find a whistle for calling the night guards' attention.
All visitors to the Tarangire Sopa Lodge arrive with their own driver and guide for wildlife activities as the lodge has no guides or vehicles of its own.
Geographics
- Location
- Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- We suggest a two or three-night stay in order to explore Tarangire National Park.
- Directions
- Tarangire Sopa Lodge is a two-hour drive from Arusha, or a 45-minute drive from Kuro Airstrip, which is located within the park.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- On a recent visit to Tarangire Sopa Lodge in October 2018, we did not stay long enough to sample a meal. However, the manager explained that meals are usually served buffet style, but when the lodge is not full, lunch and dinner may be presented as a set menu. Dietary requirements are well catered for here.
Breakfast and dinner are served in the main restaurant and lunch is often served outside, by the pool. Once a week a barbecue-buffet dinner is served on the barbecue deck.
There are usually up to five dishes available as main courses, including a pasta dish, a vegetarian dish, one red meat dish, one other meat dish and one dish of local cuisine. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available.
- Drinks included
- All drinks are charged extra. Soft drinks start from U$2 and wine ranges from U$30 – U$40 a bottle. A glass of wine costs in the region of $5.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome at Tarangire Sopa Lodge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There is no age limit.
- Special activities & services
- There are a few games available in the main area. A child minder can be arranged, though parents should note that they are not professional child minders and are usually members of staff.
- Equipment
- Cots and highchairs are available.
- Generally recommended for children
- We would recommend Tarangire Sopa Lodge for families with young children. The pool will keep children occupied when you are not out on safari.
- Notes
- Children will need to be constantly supervised by their parents as the camp is not fenced in and game wanders freely throughout day and night.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There's a generator for 24-hour power as well as a diesel boiler for hot water.
- Communications
- There is Wi-Fi throughout the central areas which is free of charge. There is also a computer in the Wi-Fi Centre, which is chargeable.
- TV & radio
- There is a satellite TV in the TV room in the main area
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- lodge has two boreholes and 4 storage tanks of 18,000 litres. Hot water is available from 6am-9am and from 6pm-9pm. Bottled drinking water is supplied to guest – one half-litre bottle per guest per day in the room and free bottles at breakfast. There is a water dispenser in the main lodge which is available throughout the day.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a resident medic and a clinical officer on site who can perform first aid and diagnoses. For more urgent medical cases the nearest hospital is in Arusha and the hotel also has links with a flying doctors service.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- The lodge has guards on duty 24 hours and there is also a resident TANAPA ranger on site. Escorts take guests to and from their rooms after dark.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the main areas as well as one for every two rooms. There is also a fire alarm and each room has a notice of what to do in case of a fire emergency. Fire-training is regularly carried out and they have monthly evacuation drills.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is available at an additional cost of around $3 - $5 per item, but is rarely requested as most guests are on overnight stays. It is machine washed and tumble dried, so a same day service is available.
- Money
- It is possible to exchange US dollars, euros, British pounds and Tanzania shillings. There are digital safes in all the rooms.
- Accepted payment on location
- Mastercard, Amex and Visa are accepted with a small additional cost and cash payments can be made in most major currencies.
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Tarangire Sopa Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Tarangire Sopa Lodge.
Excursions from Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Tarangire Sopa Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Lake Manyara Safari
Half-day or full-day
Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park makes a great safari destination. Here, along with elephant herds and plains game, you’ll find jungle-like forests that are home to blue monkeys, a soda lake tinged pink by flamingos and some of Tanzania’s best birding.
More about Lake Manyara Safari
Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway
Usually one hour
Experience the forest of Lake Manyara National Park from a whole new perspective – high up in the trees. The first suspended walkway in Tanzania, it stretches underneath the canopy for 370m between the mahogany and fig trees, giving intrepid visitors a unique view of the surrounding flora and fauna.
More about Manyara Treetop WalkOther lodges in Tarangire National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Oliver's Camp
Oliver's Camp is a small, intimate, luxury tented camp in a great location in northern Tanzania's Tarangire National Park.
Kuro Tarangire
Kuro Tarangire is a stylish tented camp, located in a quiet and remote area deep in Tarangire National Park.
Little Oliver's
For a more private version of its sister property, Oliver’s Camp, Little Oliver’s offers high-quality guiding and tented rooms.
Tarangire Safari
Functional Tarangire Safari Lodge is one of Tarangire National Park's larger lodges, on a prime central site overlooking the river.
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge is a stylish camp in Tarangire National Park, with a beautiful location and elevated views over the park.
Swala Camp
Swala Camp is a stylish camp for exploring the southern Tarangire, either with a private driver-guide, or using the camp's vehicles and guides.
Tarangire Treetops
Tarangire Treetops is a lovely, high-quality lodge on the outskirts of Tarangire National Park, offering game drives, night drives and safari walks.
Chem Chem
Chem Chem is a luxury tented lodge on a private concession between Lake Manyara and Tarangire national parks.
Olkeri Camp
Olkeri is a comfortable tented camp, located in the Randilen Wildlife Management area, bordering Tarangire National Park; ideal for those looking for pristine wilderness.
Kirurumu Tarangire
Kirurumu Tarangire Lodge is a simple, small, tented camp positioned just outside the northern boundary of Tarangire National Park.
Maramboi Tented Camp
Maramboi Tented Camp is a family-friendly tented lodge located between Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park.
Nimali Tarangire
Nimali is a small camp built in contemporary style on the outskirts of Tarangire National Park in northern Tanzania.
Forest Chem Chem
Located in the Chem Chem Concession and close to Tarangire National Park, Forest Chem Chem is a high-quality tented camp which is booked on an exclusive basis.
Little Chem Chem
Little Chem Chem is a stylish option near Tarangire National Park, offering real relaxation combined with a variety of safari activities.
When to go to Tarangire National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Tarangire Sopa Lodge in Tarangire National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Tarangire National Park in January
January marks the start of the short dry season. The Tarangire River becomes a crucial water source, attracting diverse wildlife. Elephants, buffaloes, and zebras congregate around the river and swamps. The iconic baobab trees stand out against the landscape, providing food and shelter for animals. Birdwatching is excellent as resident birds display breeding plumage and migrant species are present.
The Silale and Gurusi swamps teem with hippos and crocodiles. While the southern areas of the park may still be wet, the northern regions offer great game viewing. The Matete Woodlands provide opportunities to spot leopards and rare fringe-eared oryx antelopes. January can offer great value for visitors, with quieter park conditions and variable weather.
- Variable weather, dry or rainy periods
- Good for birding, many migrant species present
- Elephant herds gather near Tarangire River
- Lush landscapes ideal for photography
- Quieter after early January rush
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Tarangire National Park in February
February in Tarangire National Park is one of the hottest months, with temperatures reaching around 33°C/91°F. The short dry season continues, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing. The Tarangire River and surrounding swamps become focal points for animal activity. Large herds of elephants, numbering over 3,000, are a major attraction.
The north offers impressive vegetation and birdlife, including large flocks of red-billed quelea birds and various raptors. Birdwatchers will enjoy the park's 550+ species, with northern hemisphere migrants joining resident birds. February is lovely for ballooning, offering unique aerial views of the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife during the cooler morning hours.
- Hot and dry weather prevails
- Large elephant herds visible near water sources
- Excellent time for game drives and safaris
- Baobab trees stand out in dry landscape
- Park less crowded, better wildlife viewing
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Tarangire National Park in March
As March arrives in Tarangire, the long rains begin, transforming the landscape. This is an important time for the park's famous baobab trees, which store water in their trunks. While game viewing becomes more challenging due to dispersing wildlife, it's an excellent time for photography as the scenery turns lush and green.
The Tarangire ecosystem, including granitic ridges and river valleys, offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley. Birdwatching remains rewarding, especially in the swampy floodplains and woodlands. March remains challenging for guided walking safaris, as the vegetation is high and thick.
- Hot with increasing humidity before rains
- Wildlife viewing varies as rains approach
- Quiet park with lower visitor numbers
- Migratory birds still present in good numbers
- Balloon safaris offer stunning aerial views
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Tarangire National Park in April
April is the wettest month in Tarangire, with an average of 250mm of rain. The park's landscape is at its lushest, with flowering plants attracting insects and smaller animals. While big game viewing is more challenging due to dense vegetation, it's an excellent time for photographers to capture the vibrant scenery. The Tarangire River and swamps swell, creating picturesque scenes.
Birdwatching remains exceptional, with over 550 species present in the park. Visitor numbers are low, providing a more intimate safari experience.
- Heavy rains with impressive thunderstorms
- Some camps closed due to weather conditions
- Lowest rates and very few other tourists
- Lush green landscape, but wildlife dispersed
- Birdwatching excellent for resident species
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Tarangire National Park in May
As May progresses in Tarangire, the long rains begin to taper off. The park's diverse habitats, from woodlands to savannahs, are lush and green. While wildlife viewing can still be challenging due to high grass, patient observers may spot leopards in the Matete Woodlands. The swamps, including Silale and Gurusi, are full of water, attracting numerous bird species.
May is an excellent time for photography, with dramatic skies and verdant landscapes. The Tarangire ecosystem is at its most vibrant, showcasing the park's stunning biodiversity. Visitor numbers remain low, offering peaceful game drives. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities provide insights into local traditions and lifestyles.
- Rains continue, creating dramatic skies
- Quiet time to visit, avoiding crowds
- Park lush and green with high grass
- Wildlife more dispersed, fewer sightings
- Affordable rates for budget-conscious visitors
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in May
Tarangire National Park in June
June marks the beginning of the dry season in Tarangire. As the landscape starts to dry, wildlife begins to congregate around permanent water sources. The famous Tarangire River becomes a hub of animal activity, attracting diverse species. Elephant herds become more visible as they move towards reliable water supplies.
June is an excellent time for birdwatching, with over 550 species present in the park. The Lemiyon Triangle in the north offers impressive vegetation and birdlife. As the grass starts to shorten, game viewing improves, especially along the Birungi Circuit. June is lovely for balloon safaris, providing breathtaking views of the awakening landscape and wildlife below.
- Weather transitions from wet to dry
- Wildlife starts concentrating near water
- Park still green with some high grasses
- Visitor numbers increasing gradually
- Good value with shoulder season prices
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Tarangire National Park in July
July is a prime month for wildlife viewing in Tarangire. As the dry season progresses, large herds of elephants, buffaloes and zebras gather around the Tarangire River and swamps. The park's famous baobab trees stand out against the increasingly arid landscape. Game drives along the Birungi Circuit offer excellent opportunities to spot lesser kudu and massive elands.
Birdwatching remains rewarding, especially around the park's swamps and woodlands. The Matete Woodlands provide good chances to see leopards and rare fringe-eared oryx antelopes. July is perfect for photography, with clear skies and animals congregating at water sources. Guided nature walks provide intimate encounters with the park's flora and fauna. Sundowner game drives offer magical experiences as the African sun sets over the savannah.
- Dry season begins, excellent wildlife viewing
- Large elephant herds visible near river
- Popular time with higher visitor numbers
- Peak prices due to optimal conditions
- Guided walks offer intimate wildlife experiences
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Tarangire National Park in August
August in Tarangire offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The dry season is in full swing, concentrating animals around the Tarangire River and remaining water sources. Large elephant herds, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, are a common sight. The park's swamps, including Silale and Gurusi, attract diverse wildlife.
Birdwatching is excellent, with many species gathering around water bodies. The iconic baobab trees provide a striking backdrop for photography. August is ideal for balloon safaris, offering panoramic views of the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Guided nature walks provide intimate encounters with the park's flora and fauna. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities offer insights into traditional lifestyles.
- Dry conditions, animals gather at water sources
- Excellent general wildlife viewing
- Busy season with higher visitor numbers
- Swamps attract diverse wildlife species
- Night drives reveal nocturnal animals
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Tarangire National Park in September
September is an excellent month to visit Tarangire. As the dry season peaks, wildlife concentrates around remaining water sources, particularly the Tarangire River. Large herds of elephants, wildebeests, and zebras offer spectacular viewing opportunities. The Matete Woodlands and Birungi Circuit provide chances to spot predators like leopards. Birdwatching remains rewarding, with over 550 species in the park.
The landscape, dotted with iconic baobab trees, offers stunning photographic opportunities. September is ideal for guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park's ecosystem up close. Balloon safaris provide breathtaking aerial views of the parched landscape and congregating wildlife.
- Fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities
- Parks becoming very dry, animals congregate
- Slightly quieter than peak August period
- Baobab trees in full leaf, great for photos
- Higher chances of seeing large predators
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Tarangire National Park in October
October in Tarangire marks the end of the dry season, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The Tarangire River and surrounding swamps become crucial for survival, attracting large concentrations of animals. Elephant herds are particularly impressive during this time. The park's famous baobab trees stand out against the parched landscape. Birdwatching is excellent, with many species congregating around remaining water sources.
October is ideal for photography, with clear skies and abundant wildlife. Balloon safaris provide stunning aerial views of the park's varied landscapes and wildlife. As the month progresses, there's a chance of early rains, bringing new life to the park.
- Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
- Excellent game viewing around water sources
- Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
- Balloon safaris offer breathtaking views
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Tarangire National Park in November
November in Tarangire sees the start of the short rains, transforming the landscape. The famous baobab trees begin to flower, creating a lush backdrop. Wildlife starts to disperse as water becomes more widely available, but game viewing remains good. The Tarangire River and swamps continue to attract diverse species. November is excellent for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive, joining the park's 550+ resident species.
As the vegetation greens, photography opportunities abound. Guided nature walks provide insights into the park's changing ecosystem. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities offer unique experiences. November can offer great value with shoulder season rates and fewer visitors.
- Variable weather, chance of rain increasing
- Parks quieter, prices more affordable
- Wildlife disperses as rains begin
- Migratory birds start arriving in the park
- Green season begins, landscape transforms
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Tarangire National Park in December
December in Tarangire brings a mix of wet and dry conditions. The short rains continue, rejuvenating the landscape. The famous baobab trees are in full leaf, providing shade and food for wildlife. While animals are more dispersed than in the dry season, game viewing remains rewarding. The Tarangire River and swamps continue to attract diverse species.
December is excellent for birdwatching, with migratory birds present alongside resident species. Balloon safaris provide stunning views of the greening landscape. Cultural visits to nearby communities offer insights into local holiday traditions. Despite being a popular time for visitors, especially during the festive season, December can still offer peaceful safari experiences in less-visited areas of the park.
- Variable weather, mix of dry and rainy days
- Good game viewing in Tarangire River area
- Quiet early month, busy during holidays
- Prices vary from low to peak holiday rates
- Lush landscapes after early rains
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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