Monday, December 8, 2008

Awesome Lodges in Kenya - Shompole Lodge

By Kark Heinz

Shompole lodge, considered to be the cutest lodge in Kenya, is found on the Nguruman Escarpment near Lake Natron at the Tanzanian border.

The fact that Shompole has been constructed with natural materials makes it a rare establishment since it creates an environment that is not only fresh but blends to its natural surroundings, the bush. It has an eye catching hall mark of white smooth walls and water. Shompole caters for every type of guest, hence it makes not only the luxury seekers but also the adventurous people feel at home.

Shompole Lodge has just six rooms each looking out over the Great Rift Valley and Lake Natron in the distance. All the rooms are en-suite, and are constructed with naturally occurring white quartz stone and pale thatch.? With privacy, comfort and relaxation in mind, each room consists of a cool-pool and informal sitting area, a bathroom with a view and a specially designed tent bedroom that includes vast windows and a high-canopied roof.

The main lounge and dinning area are ideally situated to allow a soft cool breeze to flow in while making the most of the incredible view of Mount Shompole. The surrounding expansive landscape around Shompole lodge allows for a myriad of exciting activities to take place. From game drives that can be done either in the morning or afternoon, Maasai guided bush walks, sundowner visits to see flamingoes in Lake Natron, picnics. The lodge also caters for guests who want to laze around by offering enjoyable facilities such as massage therapy.

Little Shompole Lodge is located overlooking the stunning expanse of the Great Rift Valley. It consists of only two vast private suites, situated within walking distance of Main Shompole Lodge, but positioned for the utmost consideration and privacy.? Each suite has its own separate lounge area, cool pool and sundeck. The rooms are en suite and have privately moulded his and hers basins as well as a cascade shower.

Both rooms share a private mess and a stunning horizon pool that overlooks the volcanic slopes of northern Tanzania and Lake Natron. The bed has high canopied netting that can be closed at night to give refuge against insects, while crating a romantic setting. Guests are assured of dedicated service from a team of motivated and pleasant staff who conduct game drives and provide butler service.

Shompole has been designed for guests to relax in a beautiful environment however for those wanting to enjoy various activities there are plenty on offer such as, game drives or night drives, often combined with sundowners in the bush.Walks can be done on the private conservancy. Here, you will learn about the smaller animals and plant life as a guide accompanies you. Trips to the local village can be organised as can morning or afternoon trips to Lake Natron. Finally, for the more active, there are mountain bikes as well as inflatable canoes to enjoy a trip down the river.?

To get to Shompole you can choose between air or road travel. It is only a 30 minute flight from Nairobi or a 120km enjoyable drive from Nairobi down the escarpments and across the floor of the Great Rift Valley that allows you to have see wonderful sights. - 16492

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