Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Set among rocky outcrops in the north-east corner of Tarangire National Park, the lodge holds 75 rooms built low among baobab and grasses. Each room has a private balcony, en-suite bathroom with bath, two queen-size beds, a mini-bar, and an overhead fan. Four rooms interconnect for family use. Two rooms are designed for wheelchair access. A single honeymoon suite stands apart. The lodge lies 129 kilometres from Arusha—a two-and-a-half-hour drive by road or a 20-minute flight to Kuro airstrip followed by an hour's transfer.

Tarangire records the highest concentration of elephants in Africa. Herds cross the grounds and drink at waterholes within sight of the terraces. Game drives depart morning and afternoon with a guide. Bush breakfasts and bush dinners can be arranged at open-air sites within the park, with grilled stations and traditional dancers by request. A swimming pool sits on a central island. The lodge has a bar, lounge, restaurant, and a conference room that seats 80 theatre-style. Wireless internet runs in public areas. The gift shop stocks local crafts. You can hear elephants from the terrace at night. Laundry service, secure parking, and 24-hour security are standard.