Zambia Luxury Lodge Collection (ZLLC) is pleased to announce that Chichele Presidential has been included in the Tatler Best 100 Hotels in Africa 2026, unveiled at the inaugural Tatler Best Africa Awards on 8 October at the JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi, Kenya.
The first African edition of Tatler Best, Tatler Asia’s hospitality awards programme, brings together 100 hotels from across 21 countries in Africa and its Indian Ocean islands. The selection draws on input from Tatler’s trusted community across the globe. Presented in partnership with Magical Kenya and the Kenya Tourism Board, the inaugural awards celebrate excellence in hospitality across the region.
“We are incredibly proud to see Chichele Presidential included in the inaugural Tatler Best 100 Hotels in Africa. This recognition is especially meaningful as the lodge begins its next chapter, building on its important place in Zambia’s history while introducing a new generation of travellers to South Luangwa. We are delighted to see the property celebrated alongside some of the continent’s most distinguished hospitality destinations,” said Jennifer Beattie, Director of Sales & Marketing for Zambia Luxury Lodge Collection, owner of Chichele Presidential.
Originally built in the 1970s as a private retreat for Zambia’s founding president, Kenneth Kaunda, Chichele Presidential occupies a hilltop position overlooking the Luangwa Valley in South Luangwa National Park. Following an extensive renovation, the lodge reopened for the 2026 season with thoughtfully designed suites, considered culinary experiences and guided wildlife encounters. Its setting provides a base for exploring one of Zambia’s most celebrated wildlife areas and the birthplace of the walking safari, renowned for its rich biodiversity and opportunities to encounter leopards, lions, elephants and a wide variety of birdlife.
The accolade marks a significant moment for Chichele Presidential as it enters a new chapter, affirming its place among Africa’s notable hospitality destinations while bringing further international recognition to Zambia’s luxury safari offering and the exceptional wildlife experiences of South Luangwa.
The recognition comes as Zambia Luxury Lodge Collection prepares to bring its four properties, Chichele Presidential, Puku Ridge, Lolebezi and Lolelunga Private Reserve, under a unified brand for self-marketing and management from December 2026. Together, the collection represents a diverse portfolio of safari experiences across Zambia, showcasing the country’s landscapes, wildlife and hospitality.
