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Deluxe safari lodges open in Zambia

14th April 2008 Print

A former Presidential retreat and a collection of secluded luxury tree-houses are amongst the new circuit of Zambian safari lodges being launched this spring by Sanctuary Lodges & Camps.

While the Zambian lodges vary in style and character, all will offer guests impeccable levels of service and comfort whilst allowing them to discover the spectacular wildlife and beautiful scenery of this relatively unknown African destination.

Sanctuary’s first Zambian property, Chichele Presidential Lodge, opened earlier this year. Puku Ridge Camp and Sussi & Chuma will open during May 2008, whilst the final lodge in the circuit, the Zambezi Kulefu Camp, will welcome guests from the end of June 2008.

All of the properties were rebuilt and renovated by the luxury lodge specialist to operate on an environmentally sustainable basis, adhering to the company’s ongoing effort to set a global benchmark for sustainable tourism.

Amongst the features offered in Zambia by Sanctuary Lodges & Camps are private viewing decks overlooking the African landscape; highly-trained chefs and private guides; secluded swimming pools; and luxurious en-suite facilities. All Sanctuary properties offer an extremely high level of efficient and unobtrusive personal service with a staff to guest ratio of 2:1.

Further optional activities range from bush breakfasts and picnic lunches to exclusive night game drives and sunset river cruises – with all schedules customised according to guests’ desires and the movement of the African animals.

The Sanctuary Lodges & Camps portfolio in Zambia consists of the following properties:

Chichele Presidential Lodge, now open
This historic property, which once belonged to President Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia, has an elevated hilltop location overlooking the game-rich South Luangwa Valley and has now been fully restored by Sanctuary Lodges & Camps. Ten air-conditioned suites and a huge colonial-style lounge are complemented by sweeping terrace views throughout the lodge.

Puku Ridge Camp, opening 1st May 2008
Puku Ridge Lodge in the South Luangwa National Park will be an authentic safari experience under canvas, with exciting wildlife opportunities. The property consists of six luxury, oversized tents, each of which include a comfortably furnished sitting area; en-suite facilities with outdoor shower; and a private wooden deck overlooking the game-rich floodplains. Puku Ridge Camp combines a very intimate, traditional safari atmosphere with modern comforts.

Sussi & Chuma, renovations finishing 1st May 2008
Named after Livingstone’s most loyal retainers, romantic Sussi & Chuma is located upstream from Victoria Falls in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. The main Sussi lodge area comprises twelve luxury tree-houses connected by wooden walkways, while the two adjacent private Chuma villas each have two bedrooms and are ideal for families. All the rooms have balconies with fantastic views over the mighty Zambezi river. The central lodge building features a raised bar and lounge; an open-air dining area with wine cellar; a swimming pool; and a secluded massage area with scenic views over the surrounding landscape.

Zambezi Kulefu Camp opening 24th June 2008
Zambezi Kulefu Camp is situated in the Lower Zambezi National Park on the wildest stretch of the Zambezi River. The camp is comprised of seven spacious en-suite tents, set on platforms over the banks of the river, and shaded by large Winterthorn Acacias. Zambezi Kulefu Camp offers impressive game viewing with regular sightings of lion, leopard and cerval.

Sanctuary Lodges’ managing director, Gael Timms, commented on the company’s decision to expand into Zambia as a safari destination:

“Though a relatively unknown part of Africa, Zambia offers a diverse range of environments with prolific wildlife. Walking safaris were pioneered in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley; if you have only seen animals from inside a vehicle, you will find walking with big game a thrilling experience. Night drives are also a specialty and the best means of seeing some of the more elusive nocturnal species, including leopard.”

Booking information:

Sanctuary Lodges & Camps’ Zambian properties can be booked through a number of tour operators, including:

Abercrombie & Kent Travel - abercrombiekent.co.uk
Africa Travel Resource - africatravelresource.com
Baobab Expeditions - baobabexpeditions.com
Carrier - carrier.co.uk
Expert Africa - expertafrica.com
Magic Globe - magicglobe.com
Migration Safaris - migrationsafaris.com
Rainbow Tours - rainbowtours.co.uk
Steppes Travel - steppestravel.co.uk
Virgin Holidays - virginholidays.co.uk