The announcement was made at INDABA 2012 in South Africa

As the early morning sun appears over the horizon, the guests finish up their teas, coffees and early morning snacks, excitement building as they board the open safari vehicles in anticipation of another exceptional game viewing experience.

They are departing from The Mushroom Lodge and Presidential House that are uniquely located on the Mfuwe Lagoon in the South Luangwa Park, Zambia.

This park is quickly being recognised as one of the greatest unspoilt wildlife sanctuaries in the world, with game viewing on the rich alluvial floodplains and oxbow lagoons of the Luangwa River, this is a magnificent destination that allows you to feel the essence of Africa in a pristine environment.

“The opportunity for Three Cities to expand our footprint in Zambia is special, to do so in an environment that boasts 60 different animal species, including huge herds of buffalo, elephant, giraffe, zebra as well as 400 different bird species in a 900 000 hectare Park, is extraordinary,” said Mike Lambert, chief executive of Three Cities Group Exceptional Hotels.

“We are excited about this venture,” added Lambert, “and with the existing presence of Three Cities Exceptional Hotels in Zambia, we are well positioned to grow the market share at Mushroom Lodge and the Presidential House.”

The lodge has an interesting history, dating back to the early seventies when it was used to entertain the head of State and his VIP guests, one of whom happened to be the late Oliver Tambo.

At the end of the Kaunda era, the lodge was left abandoned until Matula Investments won the concession to redevelop it. During the development phase, great care was taken to retain

The Lodge’s rich history and heritage whilst simultaneously taking the opportunity to upgrade the facilities and amenities in such a manner as to exceed the expectations of any discerning traveller.

Generous Chalets, with in and out door showers, separate toilets, separate lounge and private patio as well as all the modern conveniences expected of a lodge of this calibre like mini bars, mosquito nets, in room safes, tea coffee making facilities and hairdryers add to the subtle sense of luxury.

A swimming pool overlooking the Lagoon, the “Nsaka” for massages and private dinners, dinners in the starlit Boma or simply dining in the main dining area with uninterrupted views over the lagoon are some of the options that are available.

Mushroom Lodge and the Presidential House accommodate children over six and child minding services and inter-leading rooms are available. Children are welcomed with a booklet of games and special meals can be arranged on request.

“This fits in perfectly with The Three Cities Exceptional Hotel philosophy regarding family travel, where we extend our exceptional service to include children as well,” concluded Lambert.