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*Disclaimer: The images are realistic architectural renders.*
OVERVIEW:
Taken over by Chiawa Safaris in 2022 and now sister property to Chiawa, Old Mondoro, and Puku Ridge, Chichele Presidential Lodge is being completely rebuilt and upgraded to promising standards. We are confident it will offer a level of luxury that is rare among the authentic safari properties in South Luangwa, and we are very excited about a new lodge opening in the area for the 2025 safari season. Commanding some of the best views in Luangwa National Park, from its position atop Chichele Hill, Chichele Presidential Lodge we’re expecting high standards for those seeking Zambia’s most impressive wildlife encounters with the added comforts of an upscale luxury lodge.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
Chichele Presidential Lodge occupies an impressive location on the top of Chichele Hill overlooking South Luangwa National Park. It’s approximately two hours by car from the airport at Mfuwe with a game drive en route.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT CHICHELE PRESIDENTIAL LODGE:
Chichele Presidential Lodge features ten identical, well-spaced guest chalets, designed to blend into the surrounding landscape and maximise the stunning views. Inside, stylish, air-conditioned accommodation features a large bed, an indoor and sitting area, a huge bath, twin washbasins, a veranda, and a private plunge pool. Two of the guest rooms have access to a shared lounge/dining area, perfect for families with older children or groups of friends. The Kenneth Kaunda Suite, named after Zambia’s former president, features two bedrooms, a private pool, a private lounge, and a dining area, including a private chef and guide.
Contemporary yet subtle, Chichele Presidential Lodge is decidedly chic with characteristic tall arches, strong industrial accents, and extended deck areas. The décor celebrates the lodge’s historic ties with Zambia’s presidents, while the salt-and-pepper colour scheme takes inspiration from its name (‘Chichele’ means salt in the local Chewa language). The lodge's main area consists of an indoor and outdoor seating and dining area, a sophisticated bar and lounge, a boma, and an infinity pool that overlooks the Luangwa River with wildlife on the floodplains below. The spa has two treatment rooms, a yoga deck, and a gym for added indulgence.
ACTIVITIES AT CHICHELE PRESIDENTIAL LODGE:
Activities at Chichele Presidential Lodge focus on game viewing, with morning and afternoon game drives and walking safaris.
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Expertly guided game drives
– The remote and scenic location of the lodge, south of the Mfuwe Main Gate, makes for exclusive experiences within this wildlife-rich region. The park’s plains, woodlands, wetlands, and rivers support an exciting variety of predators and herbivores alike. Among the species you can look out for are four of the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo – in addition to hyena, jackal, wild dog, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, antelope, and hippo. Leopard concentrations are particularly impressive! -
Night drives
– The Luangwa has a variety of nocturnal animals, including bush babies, genet cats, and porcupines. Guests can head out after dinner on a night safari with a knowledgeable and experienced guide, who will bear a special flashlight with a red filter to highlight the wildlife at night. -
Walking safaris
– A walking safari in the South Luangwa is an unforgettable way to get close to resident wildlife. There are over 400 species of birds to observe, and you’ll also learn about the park’s smaller species, such as its plants and insects.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.
