ROYAL CHUNDU ZAMBEZI RIVER AND ISLAND LODGE – LIVINGSTONE

Royal Chundu – the meeting place of the Chief – is a destination of solitude and unspoiled beauty perched on the banks of the Zambezi River which hugs the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This tranquil hideaway celebrates romance and family in a secluded setting and offers unique adventures and community empowerment. Victoria Falls is just 30km downstream close to Livingstone.

Zambia’s first Relais & Châteaux property Royal Chundu encompasses two lodges – River Lodge and Island Lodge – both enjoying views of the Zambezi. River Lodge has 10 exclusive River Lodge suites set among the trees which are nests of seclusion and peace. Island Lodge has just 4 spacious villas on the private Katombora island in the middle of the river and sheltered by rapids.

There is a huge range of activities available in the area or simply chill out and relax before or after your safari adventure.

LOCATION

The Royal Chundu River Lodge and Island Lodge are located on the banks of the Zambezi River approximately 30km from Livingstone in Zambia.

LODGES

River Lodge is the main hub at Royal Chundu and the larger of the two lodges. There are 10 beautifully furnished and spacious river-front suites, and the entire lodge looks out onto the Zambezi creating a spectacular and dramatic setting with the Matetsi Private Game Reserve on the opposite side of the river. Each suite has a double shower, air-conditioning, a fan, mosquito nets, a king-size bed and a generous deck with excellent views of the surroundings.

The classic architectural lines and lofty thatched roofs of the open plan reception area, dining room and lounge offer a place to relax among comfortable sofas, enormous fireplaces and well-stocked bookcase. The spacious veranda provides shade from the midday sun and or sit and enjoy the views on the wide timber decks which extend over the shallows of the Zambezi. The Sausage Tree bar is situated downstream from the main building on a deck suspended above the river where a large Sausage Tree is the centrepiece of this favourite meeting place. The lodge has an infinity pool overlooking the river.

Island Lodge is the more private and exclusive of the two lodges and is located on Katambura private island surrounded by gentle river channels and dotted with Baobabs and two thousand year old Jackalberry trees. There are four magnificent villas at Island Lodge -each villa has a spectacular deck, a large open-air bath, a glass-walled double shower as well as air-conditioning, a fan, mosquito net and a king-size, extra-length bed.

Royal Chundu Luxury Zambezi Lodges offers a child friendly getaway, affording families personal service in a relaxing atmosphere, where families can relax and play together. River Lodge (10 suites) is situated on the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, offering spectacular views from free standing suites with private decks. Child activities include frogging safari, fishing tag and release from deck, canoeing or boat, cosmic safari (astronomy), insect and butterfly capture and release, birding and village life lessons.

ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE

Sunset Cruises, Boma Dining, Private Dining and the Royal Chundu School tour are all included.

Sunset Cruise – cruise on the river with snacks and drinks and watch the sun go down. You can cast a line and see what bites (strictly catch and release). Watch crocodiles slip off the banks as you approach and listen to the snorting hippos. In the drier months the skipper will anchor near “Ellie Corner” where you can spot herds of elephants as they drink, play and bathe on the river’s edge nearby. You could also be lucky enough to see baboon, impala, warthog and buffalo. The birding is sublime.

Other on and offsite activities are bookable and include fishing, a signature canoe trip with picnic, a village walk and gardens tour, Katombora Island walk, birding, helicopter and microlight flights over the falls, Victoria Falls visit, Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool, Chobe day trip, white water rafting and bungee jumping to name a few.

ROYAL CHUNDU ZAMBEZI RIVER AND ISLAND LODGES ARE OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND

THE LODGES WELCOME FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN OF ALL AGES