Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge — Closed, Reopening as Ngorongoro Explorer by Elewana

Important update (2026): Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic and is currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment. Sopa Lodges has partnered with Elewana Collection, and the property will reopen under the new name Ngorongoro Explorer by Elewana. The Serengeti Sopa Lodge reopened first as Serengeti Explorer by Elewana in January 2025; the Ngorongoro property is expected to follow in 2026. Confirm current operational status with our team before making any plans based on this property.

About the Location

The property occupies one of the most coveted positions on the Ngorongoro Crater rim — the eastern edge, which is the highest point on the rim and considered by Tanzania Odyssey to offer "the best views of any of the lodges on the Crater rim." It is close to the quiet eastern descent road into the crater, which sees less vehicle traffic than the more popular western route. This combination of superior views and less-crowded crater access has always been the Sopa's core advantage over the other rim properties.

Pre-Closure Property (97 Rooms)

Before closure, the lodge had 97 bedrooms set in two-storey rondavel structures with rooms on both levels, all facing the crater. The rooms were spacious with en-suite bathrooms, central heating (essential at 7,500 feet), and queen-size beds. The glass-fronted central atrium overlooked the swimming pool. The restaurant had a reputation for good food served around blazing fires — a welcome feature after cold crater drives. The lodge accommodated families well, with a pool and good accessibility features including wheelchairs and an adapted room.

What to Expect from the Elewana Rebrand

Based on the Serengeti Explorer launch in January 2025, the Explorer by Elewana brand targets the mid-market with a more moderate price point than Elewana's luxury collection, while maintaining the collection's standards for activities and experiences. Serengeti Explorer opened with 68 rooms and 6 suites, a stargazing deck with an astronomy guide, a chef's table with on-site sommelier, and a boma restaurant. A similar approach is expected at Ngorongoro.

Alternatives While Closed

For the eastern rim position, Ngorongoro Lion's Paw is the closest alternative. For full-service rim properties: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (western rim), Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge (western rim). Contact our team for current availability and recommendations based on your travel dates.