Puku Ridge Safari Lodge proudly announces the receipt of two distinguished awards, solidifying its standing as a leading force in luxury wilderness experiences in Zambia.
For the third consecutive year, Puku Ridge has been named Zambia’s Leading Safari Lodge at the World Travel Awards™, a global benchmark of excellence in the travel and tourism industry since 1993. This unprecedented achievement highlights the lodge’s unwavering commitment to providing world-class safari experiences.
In another prestigious recognition, the lodge has once again been awarded Best Luxury Wilderness Lodge in Zambia 2025 by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards – its second consecutive win. This accolade reflects the lodge’s continuous pursuit of perfection and its contribution to setting the standard in luxury travel.
Where Untamed Wilderness Meets Refined Luxury
Nestled in the heart of South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa’s most pristine and wildlife-rich regions, Puku Ridge offers a truly immersive safari experience. The lodge comprises eight elegantly designed tented suites overlooking the expansive Kakumbi Plains – a natural stage for spectacular wildlife encounters.
Each suite is thoughtfully equipped with modern comforts including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, overhead fans, private plunge pools, and indoor and outdoor showers. Unique star bed towers allow guests to sleep beneath the vast African sky, while in-room massage services add an extra layer of indulgence.
The Valley of the Leopards: A Wildlife Enthusiast’s Dream
Puku Ridge is perfectly positioned for exceptional game viewing, including access to the famous “Valley of the Leopards”, known for its dense leopard population and diverse wildlife. Guests can enjoy guided game drives and walking safaris, as well as time in the lodge’s eye-level photographic hide – a favourite for close-up wildlife photography.
With over 378 recorded bird species, South Luangwa is also a paradise for bird lovers, from raptors and bee-eaters to storks and kingfishers.
A Word from the Lodge
“These distinguished accolades serve as a profound inspiration, propelling the Lodge to continuously refine its offerings; committed to sharing the wonders of Zambia with its esteemed guests, seamlessly blending luxury, comfort, and conservation in perfect harmony,” says Michel Bouic, General Manager of Puku Ridge Safari Lodge.
Journey to the Wild
Guests can reach Puku Ridge via Lusaka’s international airport, followed by a connecting flight to Mfuwe Airport. From there, a scenic 90-minute drive through local villages and the national park—often with early wildlife sightings—leads to the lodge.
Puku Ridge operates seasonally from March to January, with closures during the height of the rainy season.
South Luangwa: One of Africa’s Last Great Wildernesses
Spanning approximately 9,050 km², South Luangwa National Park sits along the southern edge of Africa’s Great Rift Valley. It’s renowned for its dense wildlife populations, including large herds of elephant, hippo-filled rivers, lions, wild dogs, and the elusive leopard. The park’s unspoiled landscapes and rich biodiversity make it one of the continent’s top safari destinations.
A Legacy of Conservation and Excellence
Puku Ridge is part of the Chiawa Safaris portfolio, which also includes the historic Chichele Presidential Lodge nearby. Both lodges are managed by Grant and Lynsey Cumings, pioneers in Zambian ecotourism with over four decades of experience. Their partnership with another Zambian family reflects a shared vision for delivering authentic, conservation-driven luxury safaris in South Luangwa.