Chichele Presidential Lodge

A Living Legacy in Zambia’s Wild Heart

Crowning President Hill in South Luangwa National Park, Chichele Presidential Lodge combines Zambia’s presidential history with contemporary safari luxury and sweeping views across the Luangwa Valley. Ten spacious suites, private plunge pools and exceptional access to day drives, night drives and walking safaris create an intimate retreat in one of Africa’s greatest wildlife destinations.

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Why Chichele?

Zambia’s Presidential Retreat

Originally created in 1972 as a private safari retreat for Zambia’s founding president, Dr Kenneth Kaunda, Chichele remains deeply connected to the country’s political and cultural heritage.

Above the Luangwa Valley

The lodge’s position on President Hill provides sweeping views over the Luangwa River, escarpment, woodlands and wildlife-rich plains.

Leopard Country

South Luangwa is renowned for its high leopard density, large lion prides, elephants, wild dogs, buffalo and the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe.

Experience Zambia on Foot

Expert guides and National Parks scouts lead immersive walking safaris through one of the landscapes where this celebrated style of exploration was pioneered.

Discover Zambia’s Presidential Wilderness Retreat

Walk through the Luangwa Valley, follow leopards after dark and return to the privacy of your own hilltop suite and plunge pool.

Begin your journey

Where You Can Stay

Vista Suites

Private Hilltop Sanctuaries

Ten expansive suites combine panoramic valley views, elegant interiors and private verandas with plunge pools and outdoor showers.

Each Vista Suite offers approximately 143 square metres of indoor and outdoor living space.

Super-king or twin beds, central air conditioning and overhead fans provide a comfortable retreat throughout the seasons.

A spacious sitting area and tall windows frame the surrounding wilderness and allow natural light to fill the suite.

The en-suite bathroom includes double vanities, a walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub positioned to overlook the valley.

Outside, the covered veranda features a private plunge pool, seating area and outdoor shower for complete immersion in the landscape.

Best suited to:
Couples, honeymooners, solo travellers and guests seeking spacious private accommodation.

Safari Lounge and One Vista Suite

An Exclusive Retreat for Two

Combine a Vista Suite with the private Safari Lounge for additional living, dining and entertaining space.

The Safari Lounge connects directly to a Vista Suite through an interleading door.

A private lounge, curated library and collection of board games provide comfortable spaces for quiet relaxation.

The expansive veranda includes outdoor seating and an al fresco dining area overlooking the lodge’s finest views.

A fully equipped kitchen, bar and premium tea and coffee station allow refreshments and meals to be served privately.

The arrangement creates the atmosphere of a private home in the bush while retaining access to all lodge services and activities.

Best suited to:
Honeymooners, couples celebrating special occasions and guests seeking greater privacy.

How to Get There

Option 1 (Scheduled Flight):
International guests generally arrive through Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. Travellers visiting Victoria Falls first may instead arrive through Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone. Domestic flights connect Lusaka or Livingstone with Mfuwe, with a typical flying time of up to approximately one and a half hours.

Option 2 (Helicopter Transfer):
A private helicopter transfer may also be arranged, providing aerial views across the Luangwa Valley and reducing the final travel time.