SUJÁN has acquired Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park from the Cumings family, which established Chiawa in 1989 as the first safari camp in the park.
The acquisition brings a new owner to the family-run safari operation after nearly four decades with Grant and Lynsey Cumings set to remain involved during a two-year transition.
The families first connected after SUJÁN’s Jaisal and Anjali Singh visited Zambia and the camps on safari. “We quickly recognised shared values and a genuine appreciation for what makes these places special,” said Grant.
“What made SUJÁN such an appealing partner was the decision to invest in an established, respected safari operation rather than create something entirely new,” he added. “It demonstrated a real appreciation for what already exists here and a desire to take it to even greater heights.”
A two-year transition
Grant and Lynsey will work closely with SUJÁN over the next two years, sharing their experience and supporting continuity for guests, employees and trade partners.
“These camps mean a great deal to us and we are pleased to remain involved as they enter this next chapter,” said Grant.
The acquisition includes Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro. Puku Ridge and Chichele Presidential are owned by Chichele Safaris and the Cumings family’s partnership in operating and marketing those properties will conclude ahead of the 2027 season.
SUJÁN plans to introduce enhancements at Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro while preserving their individual character and heritage.
“The exceptional guiding, personalised service, close connection to nature and extraordinary teams that have defined our camps will remain central to the experience,” said Grant.
Old Mondoro is scheduled to reopen under SUJÁN in May 2027, followed by Chiawa Camp in June 2028 after a redesign.
Conservation and staff
“Conservation is one of the strongest connections between our two families and one of the principal reasons we are so excited about this new chapter,” said Grant.
SUJÁN’s work in India includes supporting wildlife, protecting wilderness and investing in local communities. Anjali and Jaisal will also bring additional expertise, resources and investment to conservation in the Lower Zambezi through their philanthropic foundation, ValuEarth Conservation.
“Knowing that our longstanding team will receive that care and investment gives us real reassurance,” said Grant, referring to SUJÁN’s approach to team development, which includes investment in infrastructure, training and development.
“Many of our team, some of whom are like family, have been with us for decades and we are excited that they will now have the opportunity to grow within an international collection of exceptional safari camps.”
What it means for the trade
For travel agents and tour operators, Grant said the message is straightforward: “Business continues as usual with an exciting future ahead.”
“Our existing teams, reservations contacts and guiding expertise remain in place and all bookings will continue to receive the same personalised attention and care,” he said, adding that trade partners will be kept informed as plans progress.
Grant described SUJÁN’s arrival in Zambia as a positive development for Chiawa, Old Mondoro, the Lower Zambezi and the wider Zambian safari industry.
“The Singh family brings an international reputation for excellence, a strong conservation ethos and a genuine commitment to creating positive, lasting impact in the destinations where they operate,” he said. “For our guests, our teams and the Lower Zambezi, we believe the best is yet to come.”
