Chichele Presidential Lodge in the South Luangwa NP
Chichele Presidential Lodge in the South Luangwa National Park is a place of primeval forest and lush savanna, stretching for hundreds of miles and encompassing the Luangwa River basin, its adjacent highlands and a mosaic of different habitats extending outwards from the central river.
Formerly a private Presidential retreat, Chichele occupies one of the most breathtaking sites in the entire park. Since the original structures, built circa 1960, the building was transformed to create a spectacular ‘turn of the century’ safari lodge, designed to complement its natural surroundings.
In order to exploit the wonderful floodplain vistas offered by the site, 10 air conditioned, elegant Victorian style lodges are built along the edge of the hillside, each providing guests with private panoramic views. Each lodge includes en-suite facilities and is equipped with a mini-bar, tea/coffee facilities, mosquito nets as well as hair dryer. The lodge also boasts a relaxing swimming pool, well stocked curio shop as well as conference facilities.
Meals are table d’hôte with a wide selection of scrumptious dishes. Meals may be served in the luxurious indoor dining room or on the scenic verandah and boma area outside.
Chichele Presidential Lodge Game Viewing
The Lodge offers a full range of game drives in the South Luangwa National Park. Game drives are conducted in open 4 x 4 vehicles and driven by a qualified, professional guide. Night game drives using spotlights enable guests to see nocturnal animals such as the leopard, night ape as well as the spotted hyena. Guests can also view elephant, lion, wild dog, buffalo and a wide variety of antelope in addition to other endemic species such as the Thornicroft Giraffe and Cooksons Wildebeest. This is an excellent area for Leopards. Fantastic game walks are also available to our guests. Game walks are accompanied by a professional guide as well as an armed national parks scout.