August 6, 2025 | Press Release

As modern life dims the brilliance of our night skies, a pioneering initiative in Kenya is offering travellers a chance to reconnect with the cosmos. In a powerful blend of astronomy, indigenous wisdom, and sustainable travel, Sopa Lodges, in partnership with Leo Sky Africa, has unveiled Astro Tourism in Samburu—a remote Kenyan destination known for its dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

This newly launched product reimagines responsible tourism, inviting guests to engage with the night sky in ways that are immersive, educational, and culturally respectful. Beyond mere stargazing, the experience is deeply rooted in the celestial stories and traditions of local communities.

“It is a proud moment for us at Sopa Lodges to introduce our latest innovation – Astro Tourism,” said Kennedy Ayoti, Chief Operating Officer, Sopa Lodges East Africa. “This innovative experience is a game changer in the region, combining Samburu’s naturally dark skies with rich community narratives and cultural beliefs surrounding celestial events. We have invested time in research and staff training to ensure the experience is not only authentic but also expertly delivered to our guests.”

Samburu is already celebrated for its ‘Samburu Special Five’—the reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra, and Somali ostrich. Now, with the addition of the night sky, Ayoti proudly calls this offering the ‘Special Six’.

At the heart of the Astro Tourism concept is a deep respect for the environment and the local Samburu culture. The initiative aims to support sustainable economic development through education and employment while presenting a new narrative for Kenyan tourism—one that goes beyond the traditional safari lens.

Rosemary Kuria, Director of Sales at Sopa Lodges, added, “This unique, immersive experience invites our guests to connect with the cosmos in ways that are educational, culturally enriching, and deeply respectful of the natural environment. It reflects our commitment to responsible tourism… From the Milky Way to meteor showers, our skies tell a story as compelling as our land.”

With Kenya’s high-altitude terrain and low light pollution, locations like Samburu offer rare visibility of both the northern and southern skies—a significant astronomical advantage for enthusiasts and educators alike.

Expert astronomer and Founding Director of Leo Sky Africa, Kimani Wa Nyoike, emphasised the scientific and cultural value of the project: “Our role is to guide and support the trained astronomers in delivering immersive, insightful stargazing experiences… Thanks to its location along the equator, [Samburu] provides a rare opportunity to observe both the northern and southern hemispheres. It is truly an exceptional setting for connecting people with the universe.”

With Astro Tourism, Sopa Lodges is not only elevating Kenya’s tourism offering but also reintroducing the stars as a storytelling canvas—bridging science, heritage, and sustainability in a way that’s bound to inspire travellers across the world.