About Ciela Resort and Spa
Basking by the pool, sipping a sundowner and watching the sun set over the trees: this is not typical of Lusaka.
Indeed, you could be in a resort far from the city, but the Ciela Resort and Spa, nestled in grounds extending to 100 hectares, is just a stone’s throw from Lusaka Airport.
If the location is unexpected, so is the style. With clean, contemporary lines and plenty of glass, the feel is light and airy, yet substantial. Neutral décor enhances the sense of tranquillity, as does the view from every bedroom.
Key to the resort’s appeal are those grounds, with nature trails, terraces and lakes awaiting exploration on foot or by bicycle. Enjoy a round of golf on the manicured greens of an 18-hole course, or settle down with a cool drink by the pool.
For a spot of indulgence, head to the spa, or break out a sweat in the fitness suite before a craft beer in The Brewery. There are dining options aplenty, from poolside to pizza, but for something special it has to be The Botanica.
Focusing on Zambian ingredients, the six- or 12-course tasting menus here come complete with suggested wine pairings, a highly satisfying way to complete a day in the Zambian capital.
Our view
Despite its size, the Ciela Resort and Spa has an unexpectedly serene feel. Though we do have other smaller boutique options for a night stay in Lusaka, its proximity to the airport makes this a convenient stop for a night or even just half a day before or after a safari in Zambia.
Zambia expert
Traveller reviews of Ciela Resort and Spa
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Smart and luxurious, the Ciela Resort and Spa is just 10km from Lusaka International Airport.
It was opened in 2020, within a 100-hectare gated estate whose landscaped grounds make the hotel feel relatively remote from its city setting.
Ciela forms part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, a collection of independent boutique hotels located across the world. While the word “boutique” may conjure up a smaller, more intimate space, Ciela is set in a substantial estate, complete with 18-hole golf course, the Lusaka International Convention Centre, a spa, swimming pool and several choices for dining. The location is beautiful and, though you’re just a 20-minute drive from the airport and very much city-based, the resort exudes an air of tranquility, despite its size.
When we visited Ciela Resort in May 2023, its large, glass-fronted and balconied exterior, made for an impressive welcome as we drove in through the well-manicured grounds.
With 249 rooms across the ground and first floors, all with views out over the vast estate, it may be sizeable, but the interior design is much more akin to that of a smaller hotel. Local art throughout along with quirky woven lightshades, painted pots and sculptures as wall décor and colourful carpeting add to the boutique style.
163 'executive' rooms have a large king-size bed, while 77 'deluxe' rooms feature two queen-size beds, but otherwise facilities are the same across the two. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, and come with a fridge, plus tea- and coffee-making facilities. Junior and Presidential Suites have equally spacious interleading rooms, with a large lounge area in between. All of the rooms are en-suite, with a rainfall shower in the bathroom, while the suite bathrooms also have a bathtub and twin basins.
A spacious reception area is located on the ground floor, with plentiful seating areas and a juice bar, which also serves coffee (and cake!). Downstairs you’ll find a large restaurant, The Elements, where a breakfast buffet is laid out each morning.
For lunch and evening meals, there are five very different options, from light meals at the Bonanza Clubhouse, next to the golf course, snacks at the Poolside Bar, along with a sundowner menu, and the pub-like craft beers and American-style dishes of The Brewery. For more substantial fair there’s The Elements, which is open all day, while if you are in the mood for something a little fancier in the evening, Botanica offers “fine dining”.
A walkway from the main area leads to a spa and children’s play area, and a sizeable fitness suite, with 24-hour access, is located towards the back of the resort, next to a tennis court and a large swimming pool, surrounded by sunloungers. The spa is very popular, so if you wish to use the facilities here during your stay, it is advisable to pre-book.
The estate offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor time – with rental bicycles available, and self-guided routes mapped out around the resort. Various nature trails wind through the property and, with numerous bird species sighted in the area, plus the ever-present monkeys, there’s plenty to ensure a peaceful yet interesting wander through the grounds.
Craft market stalls are set up regularly, showcasing local Zambian art, textiles and culture and giving the opportunity to buy some stylish curios, and a farmer’s market is held monthly with organic and locally sourced food products.
Though the relatively short distance from the airport makes Ciela a handy option for an overnight stay, day rooms can also be booked. Many of our travellers stop just for the day after a safari, in between the arrival of a flight with Zambia’s domestic airline, Proflight, and an international departure. It is also possible to store baggage at reception and – for shorter stops – simply to make use of the dining facilities, to save a longer wait at the airport. Having said that, the resort is also a good alternative if you wish for a few days for relaxation before or after a safari holiday.
Geographics
- Location
- Lusaka area, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- Ciela Resort is a great option for a one-night stopover in Lusaka, and is also one of the city's better options for a longer stay.
- Directions
- Ciela Resort is about a 15-minute drive from Lusaka Airport.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- Breakfast is included in the room rate and is served, buffet style, in The Elements, the main restaurant area, with continental and full English options. There is also a menu of breakfast options that may be served to your room.
Though we did not get the chance to enjoy a meal at all the restaurant options during our last visit in May 2023, the menus looked impressive.
Ciela Resort has five dining options for lunch and evening meals, to cater for a variety of occasions, smart and casual.
The Elements is an all-day restaurant, offering a mixture of appetisers and tapas-style plates, as well as an array of main courses, vegetarian options and a grill menu.
The Bonanza Clubhouse serves freshly made wood-fired pizzas, light meals and snacks.
The Poolside Bar offers light snacks, along with a sundowner menu.
Altogether smarter is Botanica, which is open Tuesday to Sunday evenings. Its six- or twelve-course set tasting menus, with suggested wine pairings, focus on indigenous Zambian ingredients (including, at the time of our visit, guinea fowl, nshima, calabash and hibiscus) are a good way to showcase local produce.
On our last stay, we enjoyed lunch and dinner at The Brewery, just a short walk across the resort grounds from the main reception area. With a more Western pub experience, local craft beers are on offer to wash down American-style dishes. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- A room service menu is available in the rooms, which changes regularly to offer a variety of dishes.
- Drinks included
- Bottled water and tea- and coffee-making facilities are provided in the rooms. All other drinks cost extra.
Special interests
- Luxury
- With a full spa on site, an outdoor heated pool, nature walks, an 18-hole golf course and the option of fine dining , all set in beautiful grounds, Ciela Resort offers a luxurious break in the Zambian capital on arrival or before departure.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome at Ciela Resort.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- Ciela has a dedicated children’s area with indoor and outdoor play zones, and child-minding services are available on request.
- Equipment
- Cots and highchairs can be provided on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- We feel that Ciela is fine for children of all ages though, in general, we find that a safari in Zambia lends itself to older children.
- Notes
- Parents and guardians should be aware that the swimming pool is unfenced, and children should be supervised at all times around this area. Monkeys are found on the nature trails, and the walking paths go close to the golf course so, while warning signs are in place, additional caution should be taken in these areas.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Power points are located in all of the rooms, and international adaptors are available.
- Communications
- There are phones in each room and also at reception. There is strong cellphone reception in all areas, and complimentary WiFi is available throughout the resort.
- TV & radio
- Each room has a flatscreen TV with DSTV and satellite channels.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- All rooms have plumbed flushing toilets, plus hot and cold shower. Suites have a bathtub.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- First-aid kits are located at reception and in the restaurants, and several management staff are first-aid trained. Appointments with a local doctor can be arranged at reception. In the event of a medical emergency, Lusaka has several international standard private clinics.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- The resort is located within a secure, gated estate. Security guards are on site 24 hours a day.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are located in the central areas, corridors and dining areas and staff are trained in their use.
Activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A laundry service is available, at additional cost.
- Money
- There is an electronic safe in each room.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted. Cash payments may be made in Zambian kwacha and US dollars.
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Ciela Resort and Spa's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Ciela Resort.
Other lodges in Lusaka area
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Latitude 15
Latitude 15 is a decidedly eclectic boutique hotel in Lusaka's suburbs, with a modern, Africa-chic style and an excellent restaurant.
Pioneer Camp
Pioneer Camp, situated 14 kilometres from Lusaka's international airport is ideal for a night's stopover at the end of your trip.
Lilayi Lodge
Lilayi is a boutique lodge on the outskirts of Luaska, located on its own game farm in a lovely rural setting.
When to go to Lusaka area
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ciela Resort in Lusaka area
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Lusaka area in January
Lusaka experiences its wettest period in January, with frequent heavy showers punctuating sunny intervals. The capital city sees temperatures soaring above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. While the rains rejuvenate the urban greenery, they can cause localised flooding in some areas.
The city's parks and gardens burst with life, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the unpredictable weather. Despite the rain, Lusaka's streets remain bustling, though visitors should be prepared for sudden downpours. Many indoor attractions offer respite from the heat and rain, making it an ideal time to explore museums and galleries. Hotel rates in the city tend to be lower during this period, offering good value for those who don't mind the wet conditions.
- Lusaka experiences frequent downpours
- City parks lush and vibrant
- Fewer tourists, bargains available
- Outdoor events often rescheduled
- Roads may flood, affecting traffic
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Lusaka area in February
February continues the rainy trend in Lusaka, with impressive thunderstorms often occurring in the afternoons. The city's green spaces are at their lushest, with parks and gardens in full bloom. While the rain can disrupt outdoor plans, it also brings a refreshing coolness to the hot days.
The city's drainage systems are put to the test, occasionally leading to waterlogged roads. Indoor venues like shopping malls and cinemas see increased foot traffic during this month. Despite the wet conditions, Lusaka's markets remain vibrant, offering a glimpse into local life. Visitors should pack rain gear and be flexible with their itineraries. Hotel occupancy is generally low, resulting in slightly more competitive rates for accommodations throughout the city.
- Rainy season continues in Lusaka
- Urban gardens in full bloom
- Low season for city hotels
- Indoor attractions more popular
- Umbrella essential for city exploration
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Lusaka area in March
March marks the tail end of Lusaka's rainy season, with precipitation gradually decreasing as the month progresses. The city's vegetation is still lush and green, creating picturesque scenes in parks and residential areas. Temperatures remain warm, often exceeding 30°C, but humidity levels start to drop.
As the rains subside, outdoor activities become more feasible, and city tours gain popularity. The occasional shower may still occur, so it's wise to carry an umbrella. Lusaka's cultural calendar begins to fill up with events and exhibitions taking advantage of the improving weather. The city's outskirts, with their farms and nature reserves, are particularly appealing this month as the landscape is verdant and teeming with life.
- Lusaka still sees regular rainfall
- City's vegetation at its greenest
- Cultural events move indoors
- Local markets less crowded
- Ideal time for museum visits
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Lusaka area in April
April sees a significant shift in Lusaka's weather patterns, with rainfall becoming sporadic and less intense. The city starts to dry out, though its parks and gardens retain their greenery.
Daytime temperatures remain warm but become more comfortable, typically hovering in the mid-20s Celsius. This transitional month offers pleasant conditions for exploring Lusaka's outdoor attractions, such as the Lusaka National Museum's grounds or the Kalimba Reptile Park. The city's social scene picks up, with more outdoor events and markets taking place. As the tourist season approaches, some hotels may increase their rates, though deals can still be found.
- Rain lessens in Lusaka
- City starts to dry out
- Some outdoor venues reopen
- Hotel prices begin to rise
- Pleasant weather for city walks
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Lusaka area in May
May heralds the start of Lusaka's dry season, with clear skies and sunshine becoming the norm. The city experiences cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Lusaka's parks and green spaces begin to lose some of their lushness but remain pleasant for picnics and walks.
The comfortable weather encourages more outdoor dining, with restaurants and cafes setting up alfresco areas. Cultural events and festivals start to populate the city's calendar. The numbers of travellers begin to increase, and hotel prices may rise a little accordingly. This month offers a good balance of pleasant weather and pre-peak season value for visitors to Lusaka.
- Lusaka enters dry season
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
- Outdoor cafes become popular
- City parks ideal for picnics
- Increase in business travellers
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Lusaka area in June
June brings consistently dry and sunny days to Lusaka, with virtually no rainfall expected. The city experiences its coolest month, with nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping to around 10°C, while daytime highs remain comfortable in the low 20s Celsius.
This pleasant weather makes it an excellent time for city tours and outdoor explorations. Lusaka's markets are particularly enjoyable in the cool mornings. The dry conditions mean less greenery in the city's parks, but the clear skies offer great visibility for sightseeing. Hotels enter their peak season rates as more travellers arrive. The cool evenings are perfect for enjoying Lusaka's growing nightlife scene, with many venues offering outdoor seating.
- Cool, crisp air in Lusaka
- Perfect for outdoor activities
- City hosts more open-air events
- Busier streets and markets
- Nights can be chilly
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Lusaka area in July
July in Lusaka is characterised by cool, dry conditions with consistently clear skies. The city's vegetation continues to dry out, creating a stark contrast to the lush wet season. Daytime temperatures are mild, but nights can be quite chilly, sometimes dropping to single digits Celsius.
This weather is ideal for exploring Lusaka's outdoor attractions. The dry air and cool temperatures make it a popular month for sporting events and marathons in the city. Lusaka's hotels are often busy during this period, with many international visitors arriving. The cool weather also sees an increase in indoor cultural activities, with theatres and concert halls hosting events.
- Lusaka at its coolest
- Peak season for city tourism
- Higher hotel occupancy rates
- Outdoor concerts common
- Light jacket needed at night
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Lusaka area in August
August maintains the dry, cool weather pattern in Lusaka, with virtually no chance of rain. The city's landscape is at its driest, with parks and gardens showing signs of the long dry spell. Daytime temperatures start to climb, reaching the mid-20s Celsius, while nights remain cool. The clear skies and lack of humidity make this an excellent month for photography in Lusaka.
Outdoor cafes and restaurants are particularly popular during this time. The city hosts several festivals and events, taking advantage of the reliable weather. Tourist numbers are at their highest, and accommodations across Lusaka often charging higher rates. Despite the dry conditions, the city's tree-lined streets provide welcome shade for daytime explorations.
- Warm days, cool nights in Lusaka
- City bustling with activities
- Parks and gardens less green
- Dust may affect air quality
- Popular time for city festivals
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Lusaka area in September
September sees temperatures rising in Lusaka as the hot season approaches. The city remains dry with clear skies, but a haze may appear on the horizon due to dust and distant bush fires. Daytime temperatures often reach the low 30s Celsius, making early morning or late afternoon the best times for outdoor activities.
Lusaka's parks and green spaces are at their driest, with many trees shedding leaves. This month is popular for cultural events and outdoor concerts in the city. The warm evenings are perfect for enjoying Lusaka's rooftop bars and restaurants. Hotels are often fully booked, especially on weekends, as this is considered one of the best months to visit the city.
- Lusaka heats up
- City life moves outdoors
- Increased urban foot traffic
- Dry conditions prevail
- Evening socialising picks up
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Lusaka area in October
October brings intensifying heat to Lusaka, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C during the day. The city's landscape is parched, with most vegetation looking brown and dusty.
Despite the heat, October is a busy month in Lusaka, with many outdoor events and festivals taking place. The warm nights, often not dropping below 20°C, encourage a lively nightlife scene. Air conditioning becomes essential in hotels and restaurants. The high temperatures can make daytime sightseeing challenging, so early morning activities are recommended. Some light showers may occur towards the end of the month, bringing brief relief from the heat and hinting at the approaching rainy season.
- Hottest month in Lusaka
- City pools and fountains busy
- Outdoor dining in full swing
- Air can be hazy and dusty
- Last month of peak tourist season
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Lusaka area in November
November marks the transition from dry to wet season in Lusaka. The month often starts hot and dry but ends with increasing humidity and the likelihood of spectacular thunderstorms. Temperatures remain high, frequently surpassing 30°C.
The first rains bring rapid changes to the city's landscape, with dormant vegetation springing to life. Lusaka's parks and gardens begin to green up, offering a preview of the lush wet season to come. As the rains become more frequent, outdoor activities may be interrupted by sudden showers. Hotel rates decrease a little as the peak tourist season ends. The mix of hot days and occasional rains creates a steamy atmosphere in the city.
- Lusaka awaits first rains
- City parks prepare for wet season
- Humidity rises in urban areas
- Some outdoor events wind down
- Hotel rates start to decrease
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Lusaka area in December
December usually sees Lusaka fully embracing the rainy season, with frequent heavy downpours interspersed with sunny periods. The city's vegetation responds dramatically to the rains, with parks and gardens becoming lush and green. Temperatures remain warm, often exceeding 30°C, but the rain provides some relief from the heat.
The wet conditions can cause traffic congestion and occasional flooding in some areas of the city. Indoor attractions like museums and shopping malls become popular retreats during rainy spells. Despite the wet weather, Lusaka maintains a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations and events. Hotel rates offer slightly better value for visitors who don't mind the unpredictable weather.
- Rains return to Lusaka
- City adorned with holiday decorations
- Shoppers crowd urban markets
- Occasional thunderstorms
- Year-end festivities in full swing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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