Sungani Lodge

Deep into remotest Zambia, Sungani Lodge can be found close to a captivating lagoon that was once part of the mighty Luangwa River which flows nearby. Offering spectacular views of the lagoon and the bird and wildlife that visit, Sungani Lodge was built to blend into the natural tones and textures of the wild. Sungani means ‘custodian,’ and along with its sister property Kulandila Camp, was conceived and created by the Davy family. The family are committed to restoring and protecting the African wilderness, wildlife, and people, with conservation and sustainability at the heart of all they do.

Together with their local team, the family both designed and built Sungani, to provide guests with privacy, relaxation, and the opportunity to experience an exclusive and authentic African safari adventure. The most southerly of the park’s camps, other tourists are a rare sighting. The lagoon setting is glorious and provides constant theater, whether that’s feeding hippos, abundant birdlife or baboons playing in the surrounding trees.

The lodge is accessed via elevated decking with plenty of living spaces, along with the main swimming pool. Limited to just 7 luxurious tents, each one boasts lagoon views, a private deck and plunge pool. Inside the tents, the warm colors and natural textures conspire to create a feeling of deep calm and serenity. Expect polished concrete floors, air conditioning, ceiling fan, in and outdoor shower and bath, oversized beds with premium linens, tasteful décor, mosquito nets and all the comforts associated with a luxury offering, including complimentary daily laundry service.

There are four King Rooms and three Double Rooms (with Queen beds), one of which can be configured to accommodate two adults and two children. For an exceptional stay, book the Director’s Tent which comes complete with Wi-Fi, DSTV, a Nespresso machine and outdoor sleeping area. Just a short walk from the main deck, all guests have access to a well-equipped and air-conditioned gym.

The main lodge is open-sided, so mealtimes are an added opportunity to watch the wildlife wallow in or drink from the lagoon. Guests dine on simple cuisine which is sensitive to traditional flavors and created from as much local produce as possible. Breakfast is either cooked from the grill or a grab n’ go affair, served with fresh juices and ground local coffee. Delicious buffet lunches, freshly baked cakes for High Tea and a seasonal dinner menu will all help to replenish your energy ready for your safari adventures. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day and the bar is open from mid-morning for fine wines, beer, spirits and cocktails.

The intense concentration of wildlife in this area makes it one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. Aside from wildlife watching and relaxing by the lagoon, guests can experience a Zambian walking safari, along the banks of the river and historic floodplains. Zambia pioneered the walking safari as a wonderful way to truly immerse yourself in nature and your knowledgeable and experienced guides will ensure you get the most from the experience.

Other popular activities include game drives in custom built vehicles with modified suspension, comfortable individual seating, foot and camera rests, river safaris on the Luangwa and bush meals along the banks of the river. Sungani also has several photographic hides for guests to capture unique shots of the wildlife visiting the lagoon.