Lalibela's 5-star flagship — extensively rebuilt in 2020
Kichaka is Lalibela’s 5-star flagship lodge, constructed in natural stone and thatch that blends seamlessly with the surrounding bush. It was extensively rebuilt in 2020 and now offers a modern take on traditional safari and colonial style. Ten beautifully appointed suites each have a private deck, heated plunge pool, outdoor shower and Wi-Fi. Common areas include a relaxing spa, a well-equipped gym, a library and a TV room. Large terraces look out over a waterhole that draws game throughout the day. Lalibela is malaria-free Big 5 country, roughly an hour from Port Elizabeth airport, and is known for one of the highest concentrations of free-roaming lions in South Africa.
Inside Kichaka Lodge
Rooms & suites
Bush Facing Suite
Sleeps 2 adults · Adults only · Private heated plunge pool · Outdoor shower · 7 suites available
Water Facing Suite
Sleeps 2 adults · Adults only · Private heated plunge pool · Outdoor shower · Waterhole view · 3 suites available
Experiences at Kichaka Lodge
Twice-daily Big 5 game drives are included every night. Spa treatments, gym, library and waterhole sightings round out time in camp.
- Twice-daily Big 5 game drives
- Spa & gym
- Guided bush walks
- Sundowner stops
- Waterhole sightings
- Library & TV room
Facilities
- Heated plunge pool in every suite
- Spa
- Gym
- Library & TV room
- Restaurant & bar
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
- Air conditioning
- Outdoor showers
Policies & practicalities
Check-in / Check-out
From 12:00 · Out by 11:00
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi on the entire property
Pets
Pets not allowed
Smoking
Non-smoking property
Booking lead time
Bookings need to be made at least 1 day in advance
Cancellation policy
- 31+ days before arrival — no forfeit
- 15 to 30 days — 50% of booking total forfeited
- 14 days or less — 80% of booking total forfeited
Your full cancellation terms appear in the booking widget before you pay and on your booking confirmation email. We strongly recommend travel insurance.
Questions about Kichaka Lodge
What's included in the rate at Kichaka Lodge?
Luxury accommodation in one of 10 suites, all meals (three daily), selected house beverages (teas, coffees and local drinks — premium wines and spirits are excluded), two open-vehicle game drives per night of stay, and soft walking safaris. A Conservation Levy is charged per person per night separately.
Are children welcome at Kichaka Lodge?
No — Kichaka is adults-only. For families travelling with children at Lalibela, consider Mark's Camp (children welcome at 50% for ages 0-11) or Mills Manor (exclusive-use villa, children welcome at any age). Lentaba Lodge welcomes teens 12-18 at full rate.
How is Kichaka different from Lalibela's other lodges?
Kichaka is Lalibela's adults-only 5-star flagship — natural stone and thatch construction, all suites have heated plunge pools and outdoor showers, plus on-property spa, gym, library and TV room. Bush-Facing Suites (7 available) overlook indigenous vegetation; Water-Facing Suites (3 available) overlook the lodge waterhole.
When is the best time to visit Lalibela?
Lalibela is malaria-free and a year-round destination. May to September (winter) gives the best Big 5 viewing as the bush thins. October to March brings lush green landscapes and newborn wildlife.
What is the cancellation policy?
31+ days before arrival — no forfeit. 15 to 30 days — 50% of booking total forfeited. 14 days or less — 80% of booking total forfeited.
