Chichele Presidential Lodge

An arched entrance leads to the refurbished manor house, a rambling structure with a free-flowing space that feels both rustic and grand. The interiors are vintage, elegant, and rich with white and cream walls and fabrics, and well-polished wood. The large lounge has plenty of seating and a fireplace, and flows to a bar (well stocked, of course), the dining room (expect fine cuisine), and a wide veranda where you'll find an infinity lap pool that reflects the sky.

Ten spacious Victorian-style chalets overlook the valley, their interiors flooded with light that streams through large French windows opening onto private terraces, blue skies and those incredible views. The rooms provide an unusually high degree of luxuries for a relatively remote safari lodge. The finishings are sophisticated: crisp white linens, a four-poster bed (draped with mosquito netting) and dark, polished wood. You'll find en-suite bathrooms with a huge tub and outdoor shower, aircon and Wi-Fi

Although game drives are especially rewarding during the drier months, there's plenty to see year-round, especially as South Laungwa's habitat comprises rivers, floodplains, forests and grassland. Four of the Big Five live here (sadly no rhino)! Walking safaris are an excellent way to make the most of the region and the guides – Zambia is known for its rigorous guiding standards. Activities are scheduled twice a day, but a huge effort is made to personally accommodate guests' preferences. On night drives, look out for the iconic predators – lion, leopard, and civet among them, as well as honey badger, aardvark and wide-eyed bushbaby.