Chikunto Safaris
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Rates on request
Gallery
Overview
Chikunto Safaris is a superb new boutique luxury Lodge/Camp located on an amazing site within the world-renowned South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Itself recognised as one of Africa's premier National Parks and often described 'The Real Africa'. Known as the 'Valley of the Leopard' and famous for its high density of game and the absence of high-volume game-viewing traffic it is a huge bonus to actually be based inside the park itself.
Chikunto was built with the assistance of local villagers from the rural Mfuwe area, under the guidance of the German/Swiss owners, and is renowned for its game-rich location, the quality of its Guiding and the superb food it consistently delivers. The close bond with the local Community has been retained, with many of the locals involved with the original construction being re-trained and continuing to work as part of the 'Chikunto Family'.
This not only gives back to the local Community, but also helps to ensure the next level of customer service.
With 5 spacious luxury Tented Suites (including 1 x Honeymoon Suite and 1 x Two Bedroomed Family Suite) it never feels crowded at Chikunto. Having said that, the extra-large firepit provides an ideal space around which you can gather for a pre-Dinner drink or two and discuss some of the day's sightings. For those of you that might be thinking of travelling with family or a few friends the option of Exclusive Use is becoming increasingly popular, with small photo-specialist groups coming on a regular basis (note that there are also 2 x additional Guide Rooms)
The spacious main area is set under a large thatch roof, and incorporates reception, dining area, a well-stocked bar and a relaxing lounge area with an eclectic mix of African and European-style furniture - with some stunning black & white animal photography from the well-respected photographer, Patrick Bentley.
The property is built on raised decking that helps from both a security point of view (it is in the middle of a National Park, after all!) and helps make the most of the stunning views directly out to the Luangwa River. It is quite possible that the backdrop to your alfresco dining could a family of elephants making their way down to river to drink, whilst you listen to the sounds of the bush.
Whilst the game-viewing is clearly likely to be one of the highlights of your stay (helped by the option of the Night Drives that maximise your chances of seeing one or more of the Leopard in the vicinity) your stay at Chikunto really gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights, the sounds and even the smells of the African bush.
The heated salt-water swimming pool (no chlorine) has a counter-current system for those who wants to do some exercise and provides for some amazing photo opportunities for those that are so inclined.
There is an amazing, elevated Stargazing/Sleepout Platform, and this 6-meter-high platform provides stunning views over the Luangwa River and up to the African sky. The platform has its own private shower and bathroom facilities and provides the opportunity to have a private sundowner and dinner on the deck before falling asleep to the glow of the stars and the sounds of the African bush. Waking up to the dawn chorus and the sight of a herd of puku or impala directly beneath you is an extra special experience.
New for the 2026 Season is the super-spacious 2-bedroomed Chikunto Nthawi House, The House of Time. This villa will be available for private bookings from August 2026 and will be a fantastic option for 4 friends travelling together, for families looking for some extra space or for couples looking to really treat themselves to a 'home away from home' experience.
Rooms & Availability
Deluxe Combination Suite, with Star Bed Platform
This amazing Tented Suite combines your spacious main Suite with a private walkway to your own 6-meter-high Sleep Out & Stargazing platform, complete with its own private shower and bathroom facilities.
Ugrading to this Suite also gives you the option of a private Sundowner and private Dinner up on the platform before retiring to fall asleep looking up at the stars and listening to the sounds of the African bush.
Rates on request
Luxury Double / Twin Tented Suite
The spacious luxury Tented Suites are raised on 1.5 - 2m high wooden platforms and have their own private veranda.
The double beds are king size, with the option of converting to a twin. Again all the tents face the Luangwa River with door windows that allow undisturbed views to the river and the wildlife at the banks.
All Tented Suites have 24/7 power, with instant hot water and powerful showers as well as perfectly safe drinking water from the taps.
Rates on request
Two Bedroom Family Tented Suite
The spacious luxury Two Bedroom Tented Family Suite has two separate Bedrooms with a shared bathroom and shared internal and external communal spaces.
The Suite is on a raised 1.5 - 2m high wooden platform. The Suite has the option of Kingsize Double or Twin beds and face the Luangwa River with door windows that allow undisturbed view to the river and the wildlife at the banks. An additional bed can be provided on request.
Rates on request
Details
Amenities
room_facilities: Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
spoken_languages: English, German
special_interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
activities_on_site: Bird Watching, Boating, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, High Tea, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
available_services: 24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
activities_off_site: Cultural Tours, River Cruises, Walks (Guided)
property_facilities: Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Activities
Afternoon Game Drive followed by Sundowner time and Night drive, Morning Game Drives, Optional Walking Safaris, Relaxing on-site!, Stargazing and Sleepout upgrade option
Videos
- Chikunto Safari Lodge, Zambia, New Video
- Chikunto Safari Lodge, Zambia, Original Video
- Emotional Arrival of the Trucks to the 'new' Site
- Chikunto Camp / Lodge construction in progress