Chichele Presidential Lodge Zambia
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Vibe
Perched atop Chichele Hill, the open-plan lodge brings guests together around a central lounge fireplace and panoramic veranda overlooking the Luangwa plains.
“Presidential hilltop outpost”
Panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass, indigenous timbers, and earth-toned interiors framing views across the Luangwa floodplains.
Built in 1972 as the personal hilltop safari retreat for Zambia's founding president Kenneth Kaunda.
Ten private suites with plunge pools, soaking tubs, and personalized guiding across South Luangwa National Park.
On Chichele Hill inside South Luangwa National Park, overlooking the surrounding floodplains and waterways.
Rooms
Suites frame wildlife across the floodplains through floor-to-ceiling glass, featuring private plunge pools, deep soaking tubs, and open-air showers on expansive timber decks.
Wellness
A central lap pool anchors the main deck, complemented by an outdoor yoga deck, a gym, and private spa treatment rooms.
Backstory
Commissioned in 1972 to host visiting heads of state for President Kenneth Kaunda, the secluded hilltop landmark underwent a complete 2025 reconstruction.
Eat & drink
Evenings center on sundowners and fireside bush dinners, alongside shared meals in the grand dining room and drinks at the bar.
The neighborhood
Set deep inside South Luangwa National Park, the hilltop overlooks prime game territory, where leopards, lions, and elephant herds roam the floodplains below.
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.