Gareth

Zambia Safari Expert

Upon arrival at Lusaka Airport, you will be greeted by our Zambezi Grande representative by the name of Clever, who will assist you with your luggage and escort you through to the domestic terminal to wait for your outbound local flight to the Lower Zambezi-Royal Airstrip (Flying time approx. 30 minutes) Upon arrival at Royal Airstrip, you will be greeted by our team from Zambezi Grande. Our team will load your luggage and take you on an open air game vehicle to the lodge. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife on your drive to the lodge (approx. 15 minutes).Upon arrival at the lodge you will be greeted by our team on the ground and your luggage will be offloaded and taken to your allocated rooms. You will be escorted through and provided with an introduction, orientation and our team will check you in to the lodge. Join us for some pre dinner drinks in the bar area located in the main lodge or around the fire pit where our team will be available to answer any relevant questions you may have. Dinner will be served at a location to be advised where you will be able to experience our locally inspired menu. After dinner our team will escort you to your room to retire for the night.

Day 1: Zambezi Grande/ Lower Zambezi National Park

Early morning wakeup call from our lodge manager. Tea, coffee and a light continental breakfast will be served in the main dining area. Guests to depart on a morning activity which will be discussed with the guides during dinner the night prior. Our activities on offer, boat/ game drive safari combo or boat fishing and walking safaris.Upon return to the lodge, please take some time to return to your room and freshen up for lunch. Lunch will be served at a location to be advised. After lunch guests are invited to enjoy spa treatments (please speak to the lodge manager to arrange), relax by the poolside or take a leisurely walk around the lodge.Afternoon tea will be served in the main lodge with delicious homemade tea treats followed by afternoon activities arranged with our guides. Sundowners and snacks to be served on afternoon activities Our activities on offer, boat/ game drive safari combo or boat fishing and walking safaris. Dinner will be served at a location to be advised. After dinner our team will escort you to your room to retire for the night.

Day 2: Zambezi Grande/ Lower Zambezi National Park

Early morning wakeup call from our lodge manager. Tea, coffee and a light continental breakfast will be served in the main dining area. Guests to depart on a morning activity which will be discussed with the guides during dinner the night prior. Upon return to the lodge, please take some time return your suites and freshen up for lunch. Our activities on offer, boat/ game drive safaris combo or boat fishing and walking safaris.Lunch will be served at a location to be advised. After lunch guests invited to enjoy spa treatments (please speak to the lodge manager to arrange), relax by the poolside or take a leisurely walk around the lodge.Afternoon tea will be served in the main lodge with delicious homemade tea treats followed by an afternoon sundowner cruise along the mighty Zambezi River. Sundowners and snacks to be served on afternoon activities. Dinner will be served at a location to be advised. After dinner our team will escort you to your room to retire for the night.

Day 3: Zambezi Grande/ Lower Zambezi National Park

Early morning wakeup call from our lodge manager. Tea, coffee and a light continental breakfast will be served in the main dining area.Guests to depart on a morning activity which will be discussed with the guides during dinner the night prior. Upon return to the lodge, please take some time return your suites and freshen up for lunch. Our activities on offer, boat/ game drive safaris combo or boat fishing and walking safaris.Lunch will be served at a location to be advised. After lunch guests invited to enjoy spa treatments (please speak to the lodge manager to arrange), relax by the poolside or a leisurely walk around the lodge. Afternoon tea will be served in the main lodge with delicious homemade tea treats followed by an afternoon sundowner cruise along the mighty Zambezi River. Sundowners and snacks to be served on afternoon activities.Dinner will be served at a location to be advised. After dinner our team will escort you to your room to retire for the night.

Day 4: Zambezi Grande/ Lower Zambezi National Park

Come and enjoy breakfast at your leisure before departing with our guides to the Royal Airstrip. (Time pending confirmation) The Zambezi Grande Team will unload your luggage at the Royal airstrip so it can be loaded into the plane before bidding you farewell.From Royal Airstrip you will connect to a light aircraft flight to Mfuwe airstrip (1 hour) South Luangwa. On arrival, you will be welcomed by a representative of the intimate Chikunto Safari Lodge and a safari vehicle will transfer you on a scenic drive to the camp.The early part of the afternoon is yours for relaxation, and you may wish to book a massage treatment on your room deck overlooking the Luangwa River, to help you unwind. Please speak with the onsite Operations Manager if you want to book a treatment for any day during your stay.Mid-afternoon, come up to the main lodge area for high tea, after which you will depart on an afternoon/ evening game drive, stopping for sundowners before your return night game drive, complete with spotlights. Meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a 3-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy your drinks with your host.

Day 5: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

After breakfast depart the lodge for a game drive, with your experienced Guide, carefully watching out for some of the many Leopards that the South Luangwa NP is so famous for. Return to the lodge after your Coffee Break and spend the rest of your day at leisure with optional activities. Later meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a three course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy drinks with your host. You also have the option to upgrade to a Deluxe Suite linked by a private walkway to your own elevated stargazing and sleep out platform. Fall asleep looking up at the stars and listening to the sounds of the African bush!

 Day 6: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

After breakfast enjoy an early morning walking safari. An alternative to this is relaxing by the swimming pool or treating yourself to one of many massage treatments offered in the in-suite spa. Later meet for afternoon tea and depart for an afternoon game drive and sundowner. Pre-dinner drinks are followed by a three-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy drinks with your host.

 Day 7: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park 

Indulge in an optional full day game drive, with picnic and drinks. The location and duration is tailor-made according to the latest animal sightings and guests’ preferences.Return for leisure time in the afternoon or even back for 7:00pm. Meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a three-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy Drinks with your host.

 Day 8: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

For a cultural experience visit a nearby local village, followed by a visit to Mulberry Mongoose a jewellery brand, whereby the accessories are hand crafted by local ladies from the South Luangwa using organic materials originating from the African bush.You may also opt for staying in house relaxing by the swimming pool or treating yourself to one of many massage treatments offered in the in-suite spa. Later meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by your farewell dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy drinks with your host.

 Day 9: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

After a tasty breakfast, and one last morning activity (time permitting), you will be transferred to Mfuwe Airport in time for your short flight onto Lusaka International Airport.

 Day 10: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

Lower Zambezi & South Luangwa

Meet and Greet at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (or other location in Lusaka) with your private transfer guide. Transfer to Mukambi Safari Lodge for tea break and afternoon activities to include a sunset boat cruise or afternoon game drive. Or, simply relax at the lodge by taking a dip in the pool or enjoy a massage. Dinner and overnight at Mukambi Safari Lodge.

Day 1: Mukambi Safari Lodge/ Kafue National Park

Morning activities to include a game drive or guided bush walk in Kafue National Park. Alternatively, spend time on the river on a fishing trip or visit our community school. Or, simply relax at the lodge by taking take a dip in the pool or enjoy a massage. Enjoy a late brunch/lunch and a chance to relax, followed by tea break and afternoon activities, including a sunset boat cruise or afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight at Mukambi Safari Lodge.

Day 2: Mukambi Safari Lodge/ Kafue National Park

Game drive from Mukambi Safari Lodge to Fig Tree Bush Camp. Enjoy a late brunch/lunch and the chance to relax around the pool and settle into your tent, followed by teatime and an afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight at Fig Tree Bush Camp.Morning activities on day 4 and 5 to include a game drive or guided bush walk in Kafue National Park. Or, simply relax at the camp by taking take a dip in the pool or having an afternoon rest in the hammock overlooking the lagoon.

Day 3 to 5: Fig Tree Camp/ Kafue National Park

Game drive from Fig Tree Bush Camp to Mukambi Safari Lodge followed by departure for Lusaka by private transfer for onward journey to South Luangwa.From Lusaka Airport you will connect to a light aircraft flight to Mfuwe airstrip (1 hour) South Luangwa. On arrival, you will be welcomed by a representative of the intimate Chikunto Safari Lodge and a safari vehicle will transfer you on a scenic drive to the camp.The early part of the afternoon is yours for relaxation, and you may wish to book a massage treatment on your room deck overlooking the Luangwa River, to help you unwind. Please speak with the onsite Operations Manager if you want to book a treatment for any day during your stay.Mid-afternoon, come up to the main lodge area for high tea, after which you will depart on an afternoon/ evening game drive, stopping for sundowners before your return night game drive, complete with spotlights. Meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a 3-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy your drinks with your host.

Day 6: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

 Day 7: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

 Day 8: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park 

 Day 11: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

Mukambi, Fig Tree & Chikunto

Game drive en-route to the Busanga Plains, stopping on the way for a packed tea and coffee. Lunch on arrival at Busanga Plains Camp and a chance to relax around the pool and settle into your tent, followed by tea and cakes before the afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight at Busanga Plains Camp. Morning activities on day 3 and 4 to include a game drive or guided bush walk on the Busanga Plains. Or, simply relax at the camp by taking a dip in the pool or reading a book on our viewing platform overlooking the Plains.

Day 2 to 4: Busanga Plains Camp/ Kafue National Park

Game drive from Busanga Plains Camp to Mukambi Safari Lodge. Enjoy a late brunch with a chance to relax around the pool and settle into your tent, followed by teatime and afternoon activities, including a sunset boat cruise or afternoon game drive. Or, simply relax at the lodge or enjoy a massage. Dinner and overnight at Mukambi Safari Lodge.

Day 5: Mukambi Safari Lodge/ Kafue National Park

Depending on guest’s travel itinerary, morning activities include a game drive or guided bush walk in Kafue National Park. Alternatively, spend time on the river on a fishing trip or visit our community school. Or, simply relax at the lodge by taking a dip in the pool or enjoy a massage, followed by departure for Lusaka by private transfer for your onward journey to South Luangwa.From Lusaka Airport you will connect to a light aircraft flight to Mfuwe airstrip (1 hour) South Luangwa. On arrival, you will be welcomed by a representative of the intimate Chikunto Safari Lodge and a safari vehicle will transfer you on a scenic drive to the camp.The early part of the afternoon is yours for relaxation, and you may wish to book a massage treatment on your room deck overlooking the Luangwa River, to help you unwind. Please speak with the onsite Operations Manager if you want to book a treatment for any day during your stay.Mid-afternoon, come up to the main lodge area for high tea, after which you will depart on an afternoon/ evening game drive, stopping for sundowners before your return night game drive, complete with spotlights. Meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a 3-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy your drinks with your host.

Mukambi, Busanga & Chikunto

Arrive at Lusaka International Airport for a scenic four-five hour drive through Zambia’s wilderness to Konkamoya Lodge in Kafue National Park. Kafue National Park has a surface area of 22,500sq km and an untypical variety of topography; visitors will be treated to 160 species of mammals, including 20 different antelopes and four of the Big Five (wild rhino are sadly extinct), along with more than 500 bird species.Depending on the time of your arrival at Lusaka International Airport, you can either travel on the same day or you will need to arrange overnight accommodation in Lusaka prior to an early morning start the following day. Advice regarding hotel bookings can be given.Konkamoya Lodge integrates seamlessly into the surrounding bush deep in the heart of Kafue National Park. Each of the four tents is located on a wooden platform a metre above the ground to deter unwanted guests, while inside accommodation mimics a small apartment, complete with bedroom, sitting room, and bathroom with hot and cold running water and shower, comfort and elegance in nature.

Day 1: Konkamoya Lodge/ Kafue National Park

From the lodge you can see herds of elephant striding majestically past and large groups of antelope grazing nearby. Game drives are one of the best ways to get close to the wonders of the animal world and our highly qualified guides lead you in comfortable open 4×4 vehicles.On these morning and afternoon expeditions you will see four of the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo) as well as a variety of other animals including cheetah, pangolin, aardvark and the magnificent wild dog.

Day 2: Konkamoya Lodge/ Kafue National Park

International, Zambian and Italian specialties are prepared every day. Meat, fish and crayfish cooked to your tastes, homemade gnocchi and tagliatelle, pizza and bread in a wood oven, traditional Zambian recipes.Special requirements, like vegetarian meals or coeliac diet, can be catered for. With Italian cuisine classes for guests who would like to learn how to prepare one of the specialties.

Day 3: Konkamoya Lodge/ Kafue National Park

East-facing, all tents look across the breezy lake (Konkamoya meaning ‘follow the wind’), with marvellous views of the renowned African sunrise. All around are mahogany, ebony, baobabs.The interiors are apartment-like, with a double bed that can be converted into a twin configuration, a lounge and stylish African fabrics. All have en-suite showers, toilets and two basins with hot and cold running water.

Day 4: Konkamoya Lodge/ Kafue National Park

After breakfast, you will be transferred by road to Lusaka International Airport where they will connect to their light aircraft flight to Mfuwe airstrip (1 hour). On arrival they will be welcomed by a representative of the intimate Chikunto Safari Lodge and a safari vehicle will transfer them on a scenic drive to the camp for their fully-inclusive stay.The early part of the afternoon is yours for relaxation, and you may wish to book a massage treatment on your room deck, overlooking the Luangwa River, to help you unwind. Please speak with the onsite Operations Manager if you wanted to book a treatment for any day during your stay.Mid-afternoon, come up to the main lodge area for high tea, after which you will depart on an afternoon/ evening game drive, stopping for sundowners before your return night game drive, complete with spotlights. Meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a 3-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy your drinks with your host.

Kafue & South Luangwa

Check in and enjoy an afternoon to relax with sundowners overlooking the Zambezi River. As you are staying with us on a Fully Inclusive Basis, enjoy a Sunset Cruise complete with sundowner drinks and nibbles, as well as a Victoria Falls Day Trip with our compliments. A Fully Inclusive Stay includes all meals at Chundukwa River Lodge, house wine, beer and soft drinks, WiFi and laundry services.

Day 1: Chundukwa River Lodge / Victoria Falls

After a good nights rest and a hearty fresh breakfast, guests may feel free to explore Livingstone and Victoria Falls today! Inclusive in your stay, our vehicle and guide will take you to visit Victoria Falls today and share our beautiful town with you. There are many additional experiences that you may want to do, our driver guide will take you there, wait for you and bring you home safely at the end of the day. These outsourced activities are extra and for your own account, or may be billed into your itinerary.Your guide is available to offer you a variety of experiences depending on your interests. For example: A Guided Tour of Victoria Falls (The Victoria Falls Entrance Fee is not included and is payable direct, it is currently $20 per person). A Guided Tour of Livingstone Town (which was a frontier town in its day) or take a journey into the non-tourist local markets to see how Zambian people live, what they eat and an insight into local culture. The option for a Guided Historic Tour of Livingstone Town and a visit to the fabulous Livingstone Museum, Railway Museum or Jewish Museum (note Entrance Fees are not included for these and are payable direct.) Further options for our driver to swing by some local art galleries and various community projects. Or simply utilise the driver as a free transfer service, as the vehicle and guide comes free of charge for the WHOLE day… perhaps you would simply prefer to do your own thing!

Day 2: Chundukwa River Lodge/ Victoria Falls

Take a day to relax at the lodge and take advantage of in house activities, or tick off a few more experiences off your bucket list!

 Day 3: Chundukwa River Lodge/ Victoria Falls

A final day to soak up all this destination has to offer. Why not consider a day trip into Chobe National Park (Botswana) well known for being one of the best wildlife destinations in the world. This outsourced adventure is not inclusive in your stay and would be for your own account.

 Day 4: Chundukwa River Lodge/ Victoria Falls

After a succulent breakfast, you will be transferred to Livingstone Airport for a 1-hour flight to Lusaka Airport where you will connect to a light aircraft flight to Mfuwe airstrip (1 hour). On arrival you will be welcomed by a representative of the intimate Chikunto Safari Lodge and a safari vehicle will transfer you on a scenic drive to the camp.The early part of the afternoon is yours for relaxation, and you may wish to book a massage treatment on your room deck, overlooking the Luangwa River, to help you unwind. Please speak with the onsite Operations Manager if you wanted to book a treatment for any day during your stay.Mid-afternoon come up to the main lodge area for high tea, after which you will depart on an afternoon/ evening game drive, stopping for sundowners before your return night game drive, complete with spotlights. Meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a 3-course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy your drinks with your host.

 Day 5: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park

After breakfast depart the lodge for a game drive and spend the rest of your day at leisure with optional activities. Later meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a three course dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy drinks with your host. You also have the option to upgrade to a Deluxe Suite linked by a private walkway to your own elevated stargazing and sleep out platform. Fall asleep looking up at the stars and listening to the sounds of the African bush!

For a cultural experience visit a nearby local village, followed by a visit to Mulberry Mongoose a jewellery brand, whereby the accessories are hand crafted by local ladies from the South Luangwa using organic materials originating from the African bush. You have an option for a half day visit to Conservation South Luangwa for an interactive presentation on their amazing conservation and Human Wildlife Conflict work. (extra costs / contribution applies)You may also opt for staying in house relaxing by the swimming pool or treating yourself to one of many massage treatments offered in the in-suite spa. Later meet for pre-dinner drinks, followed by a special BBQ Dinner dinner, after which you can relax around the fire and enjoy drinks with your host.

Victoria Falls & South Luangwa

Upon arrival at Livingstone Airport, guests will be met by a representative of Thorntree River Lodge who will transfer them by road on the 20 minute drive upstream from Victoria Falls. Thorntree River Lodge blends a tranquil riverside setting with an eco-conscious approach. It offers a tranquil base from which to explore a wide range of awe-inspiring activities, all within easy access of the lodge. Showcasing incredible panoramic river views from its unique vantage, the shared lounge, library and dining areas are beautiful hubs of relaxation.During their stay here, guests can enjoy sunrise and sunset boat cruises, a visit to the Zambian side of the Falls (visit to the Zimbabwean side of the Falls in low water season excluding visa fees), canoeing safari, rhino walk, game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, catch and release fishing (not available in December due to breeding season), gym and spa (additional cost).

Day 1 to 3: Thorntree River Lodge / Victoria Falls

After a delicious breakfast, guests will pack up and be transported to Livingstone Airport in time for their 1-hour flight to Lusaka Airport where they will connect to their light aircraft flight to Mfuwe airstrip (1 hour). On arrival they will be welcomed by a representative of the intimate Chikunto Safari Lodge and a safari vehicle will transfer them on a scenic drive to the camp.Chikunto Safari Lodge is located within the South Luangwa National Park less than an hour’s drive from the National Park’s Mfuwe gate. Flanked by rolling plains, plateaus, river banks and miombo vegetation our lodge is located in an area of distinctive natural beauty and has become renowned for its prolific wildlife and spectacular game viewing. This small-scale lodge enjoys sweeping views of the Luangwa River and accommodates just 12 guests seeking a distinctive safari experience.

Day 3 to 7: Chikunto Safari Lodge/ South Luangwa National Park 

After a tasty breakfast, and (time permitting) morning activity, guests will pack up and be transported to Mfuwe Airport in time for their short flight onto Jeki Airstrip, where they will be met by a representative of Lolebezi and transferred back to camp. Set in the breath-taking, untouched wilds of the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia, Lolebezi is set on 5 hectares of protected wilderness, and the lodge has been designed to make the most of the 1 kilometre of private river frontage. Waking up with the majestic Zambezi River flowing just in front of your room is a truly exceptional experience!

 Day 7 to 11: Lolebezi River Lodge/ Lower Zambezi National Park

Thorntree, Chikunto & Lolebezi

Chikunto Safari Lodge | Where We Came From and How We Got Here

A Love Story that Led to South Luangwa National Park

In 2004 Jens Kant and Regula Burkhalter happened upon each other in Cape Town. We will never know if it was the enchantment of South Africa’s “Mother City” or fate, but whatever the magic, it eventually led to the birth of Chikunto Safari Lodge.

Jens and Regula undertook intrepid trips throughout Africa after their first meeting in the Cape. They explored South Africa and journeyed into Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Zambia. Avid travellers, no other global destination called to them as Africa did, and their love for the fauna, flora and people of Southern Africa deepened.

After each trip, they considered the possibility of running a business in Africa. When they married in 2013, there was no debate about their honeymoon destination. The couple spent three months making their way from Namibia to Tanzania, and in Zambia, another pre-destined meeting was in store. They became acquainted with Josephat Musoni, a larger-than-life character from Mfuwe. Josephat’s immense knowledge of South Luangwa National Park and the wildlife it houses astounded Jens and Regula.

After extensive discussions, the trio knew they shared a vision, and their dream began to take shape.

Together, Jens, Regula, and Josephat started searching for the ideal area for their getaway. The location needed to encapsulate everything they loved about Africa, the remoteness, the community, and the untouched bush.

They proposed several sites to the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), but none came to fruition. This hiccup did not deter the trio. By another lucky happenstance, DNPW proposed a site to them that previously was not available for concession. The Big Bend site where Chikunto Safari Lodge now sits is a space unlike any other in the Park. Jens and Regula could not have picked a better place to erect their African home.

Experience South Luangwa National Park with Us

The landscape surrounding Chikunto Safari Lodge is unique to the South Luangwa Valley. An almost ever-green riverine forest surrounds our camp and presents unbelievable wildlife viewing opportunities. 

South Luangwa National Park is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. One of its most distinctive residents is the Thorneycroft’s Giraffe, a species characterised by its unique markings. To take advantage of this phenomenal terrain, Chikunto offers complimentary walking safaris so that you can experience the environment up close on foot.

Construction Along the Luangwa River | Easier Said Than Done

They had formed the vision, the stage was set, and now they needed the tools to make it happen. The remoteness of Chikunto’s planned site was part of its charm. However, it was also a massive obstacle in its construction.

Do you know that feeling you get when waiting for something you’ve ordered online to arrive? That almost uncomfortable anticipation over the three or four days you spend expecting something you really want to be delivered? Well, Jens, Regula, and Josephat had to wait three months for their containers of construction material to arrive from Europe.

The trucks’ eagerly awaited arrival was a celebrated event in the South Luangwa Valley.

Travel back in time with us and experience the excitement of our containers’ reaching their final destination.

Being a well-respected member of the Mfuwe community, Josephat was passionate about involving the local people in Chikunto Safari Lodge’s visualisation. Instead of outsourcing a construction team, Jens, Regula, and Josephat elected to recruit and up-skill Mfuwe villagers to assist in the lodge’s development.

Chikunto is a family, and many of the staff that started with us in the construction stages still work at the lodge.

Much hard work went into forming Chikunto Safari Lodge, imparting a palpable sense of community spirit into the space.

Tragedy came to Chikunto in early 2018 when a sudden illness struck Regula. She, unfortunately, passed away just weeks after the camp’s opening. Regula was a huge inspiration in the formation of the lodge, and the Chikunto team forges ahead with her in mind, ensuring her legacy lives on.

Even the remoteness of South Luangwa was not immune to the grip of COVID-19. Travel restrictions resulted in an almost complete drop off of international visitors for 18 months. In the true spirit of Chikunto Safari Lodge, our staff took voluntary hour restrictions and implemented a new shift pattern. This teamwork and consideration allowed salary payments to continue throughout this challenging period. 

Everyone kept themselves occupied as best they could. During this time, the team dedicated themselves to improving Chikunto. They undertook maintenance and new building endeavours, such as our wooden walkways that lead from the main lodge to the individual suites.

A stay at Chikunto Safari Lodge is the experience of a lifetime. Indulge in the intoxicating charm of Zambia along the Luangwa river. Our new star gazing and sleep-out platform will have you spellbound with the area’s beauty. Wake up to the sun with a new appreciation for the enchantment of Africa.

chikunto safari lodge

The Journey to Chikunto Safari Lodge

Chikunto Safaris | Exciting Additions and Unforgettable Experiences in the Valley of the Leopard

Setting the Stage for Adventure at Chikunto Safaris

Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the Valley of the Leopard, Chikunto Safaris invites you to embark on an extraordinary journey that combines luxury, wildlife, and conservation. With a legacy rooted in innovation since its inception in 2019, Chikunto Safaris continues to redefine the safari experience. From the lush landscapes to the captivating wildlife, every moment spent here is an ode to the allure of the African wilderness. Chikunto Safaris isn’t just a destination; it’s a platform for the extraordinary. Paint the canvas of your adventure with a vibrant tapestry of new additions, sustainable practices, and tailor-made experiences that cater to every traveller’s soul.

As we reflect on Chikunto Safaris’ journey since its establishment in 2018, a vivid tapestry of growth and innovation unfurls. With each passing year, their commitment to delivering novel and exhilarating experiences has remained unwavering. From the outset, they’ve aimed to rewrite the narrative of safari adventures in the Valley of the Leopard. Chikunto’s inaugural year marked the inception of a vision that continues to evolve, adapt, and enchant. With a pioneering spirit, continuously introducing fresh perspectives and remarkable enhancements, transforming mere trips into captivating narratives. This chapter of growth and innovation is a testament to the Chikunto Teams dedication to meeting and exceeding expectations as they continually strive to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of luxury travel and wildlife encounters.

Evolution of Excellence: Chikunto Safaris Since 2019

From its inception in April 2018, Chikunto Safaris has been on an unwavering quest to redefine the quintessential African safari experience. Guided by visionary creators Jens and Regula Kant, Gareth Jones, and Josephat, the lodge has become a beacon of conservation, hospitality, and luxury. The essence of Chikunto resonates with every team member, from the expert guides with their encyclopedic knowledge of flora and fauna to the dedicated staff who ensure an unforgettable stay.

Chikunto’s Ongoing Commitment to Guest Satisfaction

The new additions and enhancements at Chikunto epitomize their unyielding dedication to guest satisfaction. Each carefully curated upgrade is a testament to provide not just a getaway but an immersive escape into the heart of the African wilderness. From the comfortable and practical new boat, with its couples’ seat perched up on the roof, guiding you through the breath-taking Emerald Season, to the ethereal Starlit Sleep Out &amp; Stargazing Platform that promises a night under the African constellations falling asleep to the sounds of the African bush.

The Chikunto Boat: Navigating the 2024 Emerald Season

Immerse yourself in the enchanting emerald season from February to May aboard the Chikunto Boat. As water levels rise, this innovative addition allows guests to explore the vibrant ecosystem from a unique perspective. Traverse the Luangwa River, home to hippo and crocodile, and discover the ever-changing landscape of South Luangwa, combining the thrill of more traditional land-based game drives in the morning with the magic of an afternoon water-based game drive and sundowner (use of the boat is subject to water levels).

Beyond Boundaries: Discover the Chikunto Waterhole and Luangwa River

Set your sights on the Chikunto Waterhole and the pristine Luangwa River. These vital water sources attract an array of wildlife, offering captivating viewing opportunities. Observe families of elephants crossing the river and drinking from the waterhole directly in front of our main deck and swimming pool. You can also witness the Thornicroft Giraffe, a species endemic to South Luangwa, counter-intuitively graceful and ungainly as they lower themselves to drink from the waterhole.

Plans are afoot for a new Hide in front of the waterhole, designed to provide you with intimate ground-level viewing and photographic opportunities of the area’s wide range of animal and bird life interactions.   

Starlit Wonders: The Elevated Sleep Out &amp; Stargazing Platform

Journey to new heights with the Elevated Sleep Out and Stargazing Platform. The Deluxe Combination Suite is directly linked by a private walkway to the platform, nestled six meters above the ground and complete with its own private shower and toilet facilities, offering panoramic views of the Luangwa River and an uninterrupted view of the African night sky. Experience an intimate connection with the wilderness, dine under the stars, and fall asleep in comfort to the symphony of the bush.

At Chikunto Safaris, we believe the heart of hospitality lies in a dedication to staff development and empowerment

Chikunto Safaris isn’t just a lodge; it’s a family united by a passion for nature, conservation, and genuine hospitality. The staff’s dedication, enjoyment, and pride shine through in every aspect of the guest experience. Local villagers, integral to the lodge’s creation, continue to play a vital role, contributing to a deep connection between the lodge and the community.

Building Bridges Through Our Connection with Local Community and Conservation

The symbiotic relationship between Chikunto Safaris and the local community forms the foundation of sustainable conservation efforts.The lodge’s commitment to education and empowerment extends beyond its boundaries, fostering a brighter future for both wildlife and the people of the Mfuwe area. This even extends to supporting the local football club, Malambo United FC.

Green Pathways: Chikunto Safaris’ Eco-Conscious Initiatives

Chikunto Safaris continually takes strides towards a greener future, embracing eco-conscious practices that preserve the pristine environment of South Luangwa. Powered by solar energy, the lodge minimizes its footprint while maximizing guest comfort. For the 2024 season, they are looking into purchasing a custom-built all-electric long wheelbase Landrover, enabling guests and photographers to enjoy a ‘Silent Safari’ and to experience even more intimate connections with the animals and the birds. The ongoing commitment to sustainable luxury ensures that every moment spent at Chikunto contributes to preserving the land and its inhabitants.

Forward Horizons: Chikunto’s Next Chapter in Safari Innovation

As the sun sets on this remarkable year of growth, Chikunto Safaris gazes forward with excitement and anticipation. The lodge’s commitment to excellence continues to drive innovation, with Chikunto becoming one of the first properties in Zambia to install Starlink broadband, allowing guests to enjoy the remoteness of the African bush whilst at the same time retaining some connection with the ‘outside’ world. The future promises even more captivating encounters and unforgettable experiences for future guests.

Chikunto Safaris: The Perfect Experience for Every Traveler

Chikunto Safaris is a haven for those who crave a deeper connection with the wild. For repeat safari-goers, the lodge’s expert guides unveil hidden wonders, while South Luangwa National Park’s unparalleled biodiversity awaits exploration. First-time adventurers find their spirits ignited by Chikunto’s warm hospitality and diverse activities. Pair your safari with a journey to the iconic Victoria Falls, a testament to the grandeur of nature. Celebrate love amidst the beauty of the wild. Chikunto Safaris crafts romantic trips, offering newlyweds the perfect blend of luxury, seclusion, and heart-pounding wildlife encounters.

For those who yearn to tick Africa off their bucket list, Chikunto Safaris presents an unmatched safari experience. Encounter the Big Five, traverse the untamed wilderness, and create stories you can tell for generations. Chikunto Safaris welcomes families into its embrace, offering experiences that deepen familial bonds. From exciting game drives to cultural village tours, every moment is an opportunity to learn, connect, and marvel at the beauty of nature. Special interest groups find a home at Chikunto Safaris, where tailored experiences await. From photography enthusiasts capturing the wild’s majesty to nature lovers seeking immersive journeys, Chikunto’s flexibility ensures that every group’s unique needs are met. With a total of 5 Tented Suites, including one 2-bedroomed Family Suite, the Deluxe Combination Sleep Out and Stargazing Suite, and two Guide Rooms, there is always a feeling of intimacy on site. Any stay at Chikunto Safaris leaves you with a fantastic sense of having your own personal piece of the African bush.

Your Safari Awaits: Embark on a Journey with Chikunto Safaris

Let South Luangwa National Park’s unmatched landscapes and starlit nights become the backdrop to your journey. 

Gareth Jones