Operating under the SATEMWA ULENDO LODGES brand, the estates existing guest accommodation is being sensitively renovated to compliment Malawi’s growing portfolio of international caliber lodges while retaining the historical character and charm of both Chawani Bungalow and Huntingdon House.
Under the experienced management of Rob van der Velde and his team, guests to Satemwa will be able to spoil themselves and enjoy the 5 luxurious Planters Suites being offered on a fully inclusive basis at Huntingdon House from 01 July 2009. Alternatively guests may opt for the more casual flexibility of Chawani Bungalow’s 4 rooms which will all become ensuite with renovations expected to be completed by September 2009. Chawani Bungalows will cater for families and budget conscious travelers with the option of self catering still available for guests wanting to enjoy exclusive use the house for their stay.
Activities being introduced to the estate include hiking trails; mountain biking; horseback tours; Quad/ATV motorcycle treks; cultural and community tours and guided excursions. Clay Pigeon shooting, a quiet game of croquette or boules will also be available while Thyolo Mountain’s unique rainforest, being home to several endangered bird species like the alethe cholensis, white winged apalis and the green headed oriole will satisfy the most avid ornithologist. Being located on a working tea estate – tours of the factory and tea tasting will continue to feature as a major attraction for visitors.
In order to facilitate the renovation of both properties, Huntingdon (The old Guest House) will be closed from 14 April and will reopen to guests on a fully inclusive basis from 01 July 2009. Chawani Bungalow will remain open until July 2009 when renovations are completed at Huntingdon. Work on refurbishing Chawani is expected to take place in July and August and the house will reopen from September 2009 – we will communicate more specific details as work progresses.
Guests holding existing reservations at either the Satemwa Guest House or Chawani will be accommodated and we will honor rates which have been quoted on all confirmed bookings. Penny Hayler will work with Michelle Cottingham and Claudette MacAdam to ensure all reservations are sensitively handled and guests experience as little inconvenience as possible during the building period. Please channel any queries or booking requests through the contact details provided below for reservations. Rates and detailed information for both Huntingdon House and Chawani Bungalow will be available through our reservations teams from 14 April 2009.
Satemwa are aware of the loyal support they have enjoyed from agents, operators and guests who return to the estate for regular holidays. While refurbishment of the estates accommodation facilities will result in a number of changes designed to enhance guest’s experiences, we are determined to keep the character of the houses and offer flexibility for all our visitors. The personality and ethos of the estate will remain unchanged and the importance Satemwa place on the relationships that have been built over many years with their valued guests will be respected and carried forward under the new lodge operations.
We look forward to introducing this exciting new product to you, or your guests, from July 2009 and thank you for your continued support. Should you require any further information on the joint venture or product refurbishment please contact either Alexander Cathcart Kay
accommodation@satemwa.com or Rob McConaghy
rob@ulendo.net.
Reservation and rates enquiries may be addressed to
Telephone: ++265(0)1794555 Penny Hayler
accommodation@satemwa.com Fax: ++265(0)1794666 Michelle Cottingham
michelle@ulendo.net e-Mail:
satemwa@ulendo.net Claudette MacAdam
claudette@ulendo.net 
