Chikunto Safari Lodge

Three different safari experiences on offer:

Game drives

Chikunto offers its clients both day and night drives. Traverse the hidden world of the Luangwa valley from special locations in the South Luangwa National Park! These safari drives provide a great opportunity to experience this famous park to the full.

Exciting night drives provide a rare insight into the unique behaviour of nocturnal species. Predators such as lions, leopards and hyenas, may often be seen actively hunting or scavenging .

Walking safaris

South Luangwa National Park is the birthplace of the walking safari. Engage your senses by taking in the range of sights, sounds and smells along the mighty Luangwa river!

Chikunto walks can either start in camp or at a distance from the camp, whatever your preference. Always accompanied by a trained and experienced guide, you will peacefully encounter bush life, gaining a deeper appreciation of the ecosystem and the part you play within it.

Emerald Season and River Safari Activities

November to March, known as the 'emerald season', is when most of the rains fall. It is a beautiful time of year especially good for bird spotters.

The Luangwa River and its surrounds can be explored by boat up until April, with lush, green vegetation supporting specific fauna and flora. You also have an opportunity to discover the delicate relationship between this ecosystem and its surrounding communities.

The four luxury tents and one family tent each feature king or twin beds, mosquito net, comfortable outdorr seating area, wardrobe and en-suite bathroom.

The main thatched lodge area houses a cosy bar, a dining area, and a salt water swimming pool, all within a perfect natural setting. An inviting fire pit area is a popular meeting place before safari activities and around dinner time.

Packages available

Rates are given in USD, per person per night (except for exclusive use, which is per night). The single supplement is 30%. Rates include the following:

Accommodation

• All meals and snacks (breakfast, lunch, afternoon cake, 3-course dinner)
• All soft drinks, water, wine, beers & Spirits - excluding premium brands
• Two game viewing activities per day (game drives (dry season) - 4 to maximum 6 passengers per vehicle - and/or boat cruises (subject to water levels)
• Transfer from and to Mfuwe airport
• Laundry service
• Value added tax
• Cultural/village tour - on request (as an alternative to a game drive)
• Visit to local market and Tribal Textiles - on request (as an alternative to a game drive)

Booking / Cancellation Policy

• Bookings made on a provisional basis will be held for 21 days.
• 25% deposit of the quoted rate is required to confirm the booking. Full payment is due 30 days prior arrival.
• No cancellation fee is charged up to 91 days prior to arrival. 50% cancellation fee 90-31 days prior to arrival. 100% cancellation fee 30-0 days prior to arrival.

Children's Discount

A maximum of 1 child per double room, a maximum of 2 children in the family room, and a maximum of 4 children at the Lodge:

• Children 3-7 years sharing with two adults receive a discount of 50%.
• Children 8-16 years sharing with two adults receive a discount of 30% on the commissionable rate.
• Park fees for children: 0-4 years no charge; 5-12 years 50% of fee

Private vehicle

A private vehicle can be booked at $500 per night. Private vehicle must be booked a minimum of 30 days prior to arrival.

National Park Fees

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) park fees are $65 pppn and are non-commissionable. The fees includes park entrance fee, bed levy and tourism levy.

EXCLUSIVE USE – PARK FEES DON’T APPLY FOR EMPTY BEDS.

These fees are subject to change depending on DNPW policy without prior notice.

Jens is based in Germany, regularly visiting Chikunto; and lodge bookings are managed by Gareth Jones who was raised in Africa. Gareth ensures that Chikunto's international standard is maintained, whilst not taking away any of its rustic appeal.

Background

Sharing a deep love for Africa, Jens and his wife Regula always thought how great it would be to run a business in Africa and do something that they were both passionate about. From 2014 to 2018 their dream gradually became a reality at Chikunto, as the buildings and landscape took shape.

Tragically, just weeks after the opening of the lodge, Regula, Chikunto's inspiration, was struck down by a sudden illness. Also very sadly, in 2021, Josephat passed away. Inspired by the passion and vison shared by Regula and Josephat, the current management continue to offer a unique African bush experience to those who dare.