Safari Lodges

Chichele Presidential

South Luangwa, Zambia
Up to 20 guests
Safari Lodges
Zambia
From $1,625/night

About This Property

Chichele Presidential was once the holiday retreat of Dr Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia’s founding president. Today it’s a luxury camp in South Luangwa National Park, the place Norman Carr made the birthplace of the walking safari in the late 1960s.

Elephants crowd the rivers and waterholes, and lion prides laze on the grassy plains. We walk in the mornings and drive in the evenings, with a good chance of wild dog and leopard, and spend the hours in between at the pool.

National Park South Luangwa National Park View park details →

Why We Love It

We love the private plunge pools on the decks, high tea in the afternoon, picnic lunches and sundowners in a clearing. Families are welcome too, with a kids’ club and activities.

Rooms & Details

Vista Suite

Vista Suite at Chichele Presidential

Earthy suites with arched alcoves and glass sliding doors. The lounge opens onto a big deck with a plunge pool and views over the rolling savannah, and there’s a king bed, air conditioning and mosquito nets.

Vista Suite at Chichele Presidential

Safari Lounge

Safari Lounge at Chichele Presidential

Two Vista Suites joined by a lounge and dining room, with a kitchen, bar and coffee station. Ideal for families or groups.

Main Areas

Main Areas at Chichele Presidential

An infinity pool, gym, yoga deck, spa, library, bar for a cigar and nightcap, and a photographic hide.

Dining

Dining at Chichele Presidential

A light breakfast by the fire before the morning safari, then a full lunch or a private picnic.

Amenities & Features

Air Conditioning
Bar
En-suite Bathroom
Family Rooms
Free Wi-Fi
Gym
Laundry Service
Outdoor Shower
Spa
Swimming Pool
Viewing Deck

Cancellation Policy

Confirm with Chiawa Safaris when you book.

Rates

Prices start from $1,625 per night. Final pricing depends on season, room type, and availability. Check current rates on our booking partner's site for the most accurate pricing.

From USD 1,625 per person sharing Fully Inclusive. Confirm park fees, Mfuwe transfers, spa and private-vehicle supplements.

Location

Mfuwe / Mambwe
Chichele Presidential, Mambwe, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Zambia
South Luangwa National Park, Mambwe, Zambia — hilltop former presidential retreat with 360-degree views over rivers, streams, floodplains and forest. street address Mambwe, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. Operated by Chiawa Safaris (with Chichele Safaris ownership).
GPS Coordinates -13.1669, 31.7102
Nearest Airport Mfuwe Airport (MFU); confirm light-aircraft routing from Lusaka (LUN)

How to Get There

Getting there

We arrange your flight into the South Luangwa and the road transfer to camp.

Nearby Attractions

South Luangwa floodplains and rivers, photographic hide, Chichele hilltop views, sister Chiawa Lower Zambezi circuit

Things to Do

At the property

The infinity pool, sunrise yoga, spa massages, the gym, the photo hide and the kids’ club.

In the area

Walking safaris, game drives, night drives, sundowners and wine tasting.

Good to Know

Children: Children are welcome, with a kids’ club.

History: This was once President Kaunda’s holiday home.

Who It's For

Discerning couples and families who want ultra-luxury South Luangwa with spa, gym and plunge-pool suites — not a rustic walking-only bushcamp.

Best Time to Visit

Fully inclusive seasons span roughly March–January across rate bands (including Jul–Oct high). Dry-season months typically concentrate game.