Not a single tree was felled when Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort was built on the southern shore. Instead, the main building curves between the acacias, and the cottages, inspired by traditional round houses with conical roofs, are scattered through the gardens. Waterbuck, giraffes and zebras wander between them, while colobus monkeys move through the branches overhead.
When darkness falls, the hippos leave Lake Naivasha and come ashore to graze the lawns, and you can watch them from a secure viewing deck. It is a fitting reminder that this resort was designed around nature rather than despite it.
Meals are served in the restaurant or out in the boma dining area, and the bar and lounge are easy places to swap stories at the end of the day. There is a swimming pool for lazy afternoons and a gym for anyone keen to keep moving.
Days here can be as busy or as slow as you like. Head out on the water to see hippos and birdlife up close, try your hand at archery, explore by bike or join a guided nature walk through the grounds.
ACCOMMODATION
The cottages each hold rooms on the ground and upper floors, all with en suite bathrooms and a separate sitting area. Upper-floor rooms open onto private balconies with views towards the lake. Thoughtful touches include a minibar, tea and coffee station, fridge, TV and safe. Families can book interconnecting rooms on the ground floor, there are suites for those wanting a little more space, and wheelchair-accessible rooms are also available.
Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort lies on Moi South Lake Road along the southern shore of Lake Naivasha, around 90km from Nairobi, which is roughly a 1.5-hour drive. This freshwater Rift Valley lake is known for its hippos and abundant birdlife. Boat trips head out across the water, and Crescent Island, where you can walk among giraffes and zebras, is within easy reach. It makes a relaxed first or last stop on a Kenya safari.
Speak to a specialist for availability and pricing.
