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OVERVIEW:
Taken over by Chiawa Safaris in 2022 and now sister property to Chiawa, Old Mondoro , and Puku Ridge, Chichele Presidential Lodge has been completely rebuilt and upgraded to the highest of standards. It offers a level of luxury that is rare among the authentic safari properties in the South Luangwa, and we are very excited about this new lodge opening for the 2023 safari season. It is ideal for those seeking the impressive wildlife encounters of Zambia, and the added comforts of a luxury lodge.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
The lodge has a spectacular location on the top of Chichele Hill, looking down on the South Luangwa National Park. It’s accessed via approximately 2 hours’ road transfer from the airport at Mfuwe. The transfer includes a game drive.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT CHICHELE PRESIDENTIAL LODGE:
There are 10 identical guest chalets, which have been designed to blend into the surrounding landscape. However, inside you’ll find superlative air-conditioned accommodation featuring a large bed, an indoor and sitting area, a huge bath, twin washbasins, and a private plunge pool – all taking full advantage of the sweeping views. Two of these guest rooms have access to a shared lounge/dining area, which is perfect for families with older children or for groups of friends. Additionally, the Kenneth Kaunda Suite, named after Zambia’s former president, features two bedrooms, a private pool, and a private lounge and dining area, and includes a private chef and guide.
Contemporary yet subtle, Chichele Presidential Lodge is decidedly safari-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 its inspiration from its name (‘Chichele’ means salt in the local Chewa language). The main area of the lodge consists of an indoor-and-outdoor seating-and-dining area, a sophisticated bar and lounge, and an infinity pool that overlooks the Luangwa river with wildlife on the flood plains below. For a bit of added indulgence, there’s a spa with two treatment rooms, a yoga deck, and a gym.
ACTIVITIES AT CHICHELE PRESIDENTIAL LODGE:
Activities at Chichele Presidential Lodge focus around 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 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, antelopes, and hippo. Leopard concentrations are particularly impressive! -
Night drives
– The Luangwa has a variety of nocturnal animals, including bush baby, genet, and porcupine. 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
– Going on a walking safari in the South Luangwa is a fantastic way to get up close to resident wildlife. There are over 400 species of birds to observe, and you’ll also learn about the park’s smaller lives, 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.
