By: Alexander Seaman
Earlier this month, my family and I spent two nights at Chichele Presidential Lodge in South Luangwa National Park – a quick safari escape to celebrate my mum's birthday that packed in excellent wildlife, Zambian hospitality, quality family time and some stunning views.
After landing at Mfuwe Airport, we were met by our guide, David, who was with us throughout the trip. Before heading into the park, we made a quick stop at Mwezi Blu, a new local jewellery shop selling locally made, contemporary pieces. It’s a great place to pick up a small gift (birthday present for mum!!) or treat yourself to something unique and locally made.
The drive to Chichele was about an hour and a half, and we arrived in time for a delicious lamb mezze lunch served on the veranda, looking out across the park. The rooms were a standout – large, luxurious, very comfortable, with classic finishes and wide-open views that reminded us that we were in the heart of safari country.
That afternoon, after some rest and tea, we headed out on our first game drive. Wildlife was active – we saw elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and plenty of antelope. As the sun set, we stopped at the Luangwa River for sundowners, then returned to camp for a boma dinner – braaied meats, vegetables, and a firelit setting.
The next morning, after a light breakfast, we set out early and were lucky to find a female leopard not long into the drive. Later, we came across a pride of five lions feeding on a hippo carcass on an island. It was intense and fascinating to watch, with the sounds and movement of the kill drawing in scavengers in the distance.
We returned to the lodge for a delicious brunch (I went for the chicken mezze), then spent a few hours relaxing at the infinity pool, which looks out across the valley. I even found time to try out the very well equipped gym. The afternoon game drive with David saw us exploring a more southern part of the park, culminating with birthday sundowners in a stunning palm tree area that our guide referred to as Eden. During our drive we encountered a large troop of baboons playing in the trees, saw elephants wading through shallow streams, and took in the changing light with a family of giraffe on the horizon.
Just before sunset, we turned into a small clearing where the Chichele team had set up a surprise birthday celebration sundowner for us – cocktails, an delicious array of snacks, and panoramic views. It was a thoughtful touch, and a great way to close out the day.
On our last morning, we skipped the early drive in favor of a lie in and later breakfast, finally getting to try out the Egg Bar, where you can order eggs exactly how you like them. Simple, but nicely done and delicious.
After packing up, David drove us back to Mfuwe Airport for our flight. In just two days, we felt like we’d done and seen a lot, but without ever feeling rushed. The perfect birthday celebration and family get together spot.
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