Stylish seclusion and superb game viewing in the heart of Zambia's premier park
Location: Tucked into a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River, Chikunto Safari Lodge is located deep inside South Luangwa National Park, known for its walking safaris, healthy predator populations and crowd-free game drives. The lodge is a scenic 40-minute drive from Mfuwe Airport and close to the main gate.
Accommodation: The lodge caters for up to 12 guests across three luxury tented suites, a family tent (with two bedrooms and shared lounge), and a unique deluxe suite that includes a private sleep-out and stargazing platform (June to October). Each canvas tent is raised 1.5–2 metres off the ground and comes with en-suite bathroom, indoor seating area, writing desk, cooling fans, mosquito nets and a private deck overlooking the bush.
Facilities: At the heart of the lodge is a welcoming, thatch-roofed main area with lounge, bar and dining space, all set on a raised wooden deck. There’s a heated saltwater swimming pool overlooking the waterhole, perfect for a dip between drives. The lodge runs on solar power and has filtered drinking water and Starlink Wi-Fi in the main areas.
Activities: Chikunto Safari Lodge offers expertly guided game drives, photography safaris, walking safaris (dry season only) and seasonal boat cruises during the Emerald Season (typically mid-February to April). Cultural visits to nearby schools and villages are available on request, as are trips to the local craft markets and textile workshops. The stargazing sleep-out is a real highlight.
Sustainability: Chikunto runs entirely on solar power and is built to blend with the landscape. Filtered borehole water is safe to drink, and the lodge actively supports conservation and community initiatives in the Luangwa Valley.
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