CHICHELE PRESIDENTIAL LODGE – SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
Perched dramatically on top of Chichele Hill within the South Luangwa National Park, Chichele Presidential Lodge combines a sense of history with modern luxury and a super location. Originally built as a private retreat for Zambia’s first President, Kenneth Kaunda, the property has been entirely re‑imagined for today’s safari traveller while retaining its deep connection to the land and its legacy.

This luxurious lodge benefits from the attention to detail, personalised service, guiding and conservation ethos (carbon positive) which the Cumings Family’s Lower Zambezi safari camps have become renowned for, and offers an immersive safari experience with expansive views over the surrounding floodplains, rivers and forests.

LOCATION
Chichele Presidential is situated within the South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia. Access is via a flight into Mfuwe Airport followed by a transfer by road/game‑vehicle into the lodge.

THE LODGE
Chichele Presidential has been redesigned and finished to a very high standard: 10 luxury Vista Suites each featuring generous indoor‑outdoor living, private plunge pool, and a seamless connection to the bush beyond. Highlights include air‑conditioned suites with large beds, his‑and‑hers washbasins, spacious bath, indoor and outdoor showers.

A luxurious main lodge with lounges, bar, infinity pool, gym facilities and a world class spa complements the guest experience. Two of the suites are connected by a Safari Lounge, ideal for families or group travellers. Decor celebrates its presidential history, with deliberate design choices referencing the lodge’s legacy and location.

WILDLIFE AND ACTIVITIES
The lodge is set in an outstanding wildlife area within South Luangwa National Park and offers day and night game drives and walking safaris. Game drives operate in open 4×4 vehicles, offering sightings of elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, leopard, plains game and birds.  Walking safaris — for guests aged 12 and above — are a highlight, guided by expert naturalists.   Night drives reveal the nocturnal side of the bush, with hyena, civet, porcupine, bush babies and other elusive species. Additional experiences include yoga, spa treatments, photographic hides, bird‑watching with over 400 recorded species, and downtime on the lodge deck.

GIVING BACK
Chichele Presidential is operated by Chiawa Safaris who are synonymous with conservation, eco‑tourism and community connection. The lodge runs on a low‑impact, carbon‑positive model and actively supports local education, employment and enterprise. Projects include funding local school infrastructure, providing educational resources through the Pack for a Purpose programme, and promoting women’s economic independence through small business initiatives in nearby villages.

FAMILIES AND CHILDREN
Chichele Presidential welcomes families and children aged four years and older. Children aged 16 and under must share accommodation with an adult. Walking safaris are available to guests aged 12 years and above, at the guide’s discretion. Private vehicles may be required for families with young children to ensure a flexible and safe safari experience. The lodge offers inter‑connecting suites ideal for families, though the property is unfenced and children must be supervised at all times.

The lodge operates from early March through to January every year.