Protea Hotel Safari Lodge, Chisamba, Zambia

I recently stayed four nights at this hotel as virtually everything in Lusaka was booked. It is important to note that despite what Google or the hotel may say this hotel is not on the outskirts of Lusaka but a good 1.5h drive, and that assumes good traffic (which is rare in Lusaka).

The hotel is a decent, modern game lodge near a small watering hole which attracts animals: Kudu, monkeys and Impala are a regular sight. The hotel also features its own lion enclosure (rescue animals) which is sizeable.

The hotel had arranged an airport pick up (allow 2h from the airport). Check in was swift and friendly.

There are two types of accommodation: individual single occupancy buildings and slightly larger buildings housing four or five rooms. I was staying at the latter. The rooms were basic but featured all the essentials: a comfortable bed, HD TV, tea/coffee facilities, desk, armchair and a basic but clean bathroom. An empty fridge is also available should you wish to store your own beverages.

Each unit has its own aircon and heating system, the latter came in handy considering it was the southern winter when I stayed and nights were chilly. All windows had mosquito nets.

Overall the room was comfortable and functional. Electricity went once briefly during my stay but every room has a candle for such emergencies. Wifi was half decent considering the location and free.

Service was excellent throughout. The staff are were accommodating and ready assist with transport requests and any other needs you may have.

My rate included breakfast which is served in a covered outdoor area. It included plenty of hot and cold options and was plentiful.

Diner is served buffet style in the same area and changed daily. on offer were four or five hot options with plenty of salads and deserts available too. Again the staff were friendly and ever so helpful.

As already mentioned this hotel is quite a trek north of Lusaka. Once you see the sign on the main Dar es Salaam road you have to turn right onto a dirt road which seems to go on forever until you reach the gate, then it is another 5km until you reach the hotel proper. On the plus side it is incredibly quiet (never slept so well).

Overall I found this 3* hotel very nice and pleasant. The staff are a credit to it and service was perfect throughout. I would not recommend it if you have business in Lusaka as it is too far out. I also would recommend off road vehicels as the dirt road is not just a dirt road but in a pretty poor state.