Royal Chundu Zambezi Island Lodge

Zambia’s award-winning Royal Chundu, is nestled along the banks of the Zambezi River which hugs the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It encompasses two lodges: River Lodge and Island Lodge, both hideaways of untold tranquillity where romance and adventure are intertwined for the perfect getaway.

Set on 15 kilometres of upper Zambezi waterway, Royal Chundu Island Lodge is completely private – except for the occasional local fishermen passing by in a traditional mokoro. Four spacious villas rest on the Katombora river-island, and make for a perfect romantic getaway; tranquil and exclusive. The well-appointed suites, splashed with cobalt blue and earthy palettes, open up onto private decks overlooking the river rapids.

Why we like it here

Royal Chundu is a Zambian-run lodge with 99% of the staff from the local area.

The community is at the heart of Royal Chundu and 70% of revenue from the lodge goes back into the community (to suppliers, producers, services, food, employment and the Royal Chundu Foundation School). This affords a genuine sense of place: from the food you eat to the people you meet and the tangible impact your trip has on the ground.

Guests can experience this first-hand, on a visit to the neighbouring village and gardens, crafts centre and school, and even have a local “chitenge” outfit made to take back home.

The island is exclusively for guests (and staff) only.

Relax in your riverfront bathtub as the sun sets over the Zambezi River with a bottle of bubbly.

Enjoy a romantic picnic for two with a Persian rug and hammock to complete this idyllic setting on the riverbank.

Royal Chundu has a helipad allowing guests the convenience of a helicopter flight to view the spectacular Victoria Falls from up close (not included in the cost).

Go canoeing along the Zambezi.

Enjoy sundowners and witness the stillness of the Zambezi on a sunset cruise.

Relax with a spa treatment in the privacy of your suite, indoors or out, with the gentle sounds of the Zambezi River in the background.

Royal Chundu is renowned among the professional angling fraternity for its superb tiger-fishing location.

Things to be aware of

There is no fishing at the lodge (or anywhere on the Zambezi) from December to March, as this is spawning season.

Island Lodge cannot accommodate children unless the entire lodge is reserved on an exclusive-use basis (River Lodge welcomes children).

Zambia is a malaria area and the necessary malaria prophylaxis should be used. Royal Chundu provides insect repellent; public areas and all suites are furnished with mosquito nets.

Where we are situated