Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge. With the greatest views of any of the lodges on the Crater Rim and a reasonable price, the Sopa is an excellent choice for location. Although it isn’t the most visually appealing lodge, it fulfills its purpose admirably. It has its own access road to the crater floor and is located on the eastern side of the rim, which is far away from the other lodges. It is a fantastic bargain option for a one or two-night stay, but if you want something with more character and charm at the expense of a crater view, choose Plantation Lodge on the Ngorongoro highlands, or grandeur at the Manor or the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge: The Facts

The Ngorongoro Sopa is located on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater’s eastern side. The lodge is an hour and a half’s drive from the Manyara airstrip and three and a half hours from Arusha.

The Ngorongoro Sopa is an ancient and once ornately adorned establishment. With the greatest views of any of the lodges on the Crater Rim and a reasonable price, the Sopa is a fantastic choice for the more budget-conscious traveler or clients who simply want to use the hotel as a base to explore the Crater and nearby highlands, but it complements any Tanzania safari.

The Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge is built around an amazing glass-fronted central atrium that overlooks the swimming pool (though few people risk the highland frost and swim in it). The lounge and restaurant are positioned to the left and right, respectively, and are large, yet pleasant, spaces centered around raging fires, which might be the perfect way to relax after a chilly nighttime drive.
The restaurant has a strong reputation and a great atmosphere when the central open flames are lit. Guests take advantage of the necessity of leaving their Ngorongoro Safari early when the crater closes by eating long and leisurely dinners. The views are spectacular, and the touch of kitsch may be entertaining.

Each of the 92 rooms is well-designed, roomy, and comfortable, with a glass-fronted terrace from which to enjoy crater views. They also have the added benefit of having baths and showers.

The Ngorongoro Crater only admits daytime wildlife drives. Short walks surrounding the resort can be organized while there.