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Royal Chundu comprises two riverside lodges—River Lodge and Island Lodge—on a private 15-kilometre stretch of the Zambezi River, 20 miles upstream from Victoria Falls. A Relais & Châteaux member, the property offers 14 suites and villas with colonial décor. It is selected for its distinctive wilderness location and range of safari and water-based activities.
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Royal Chundu sits in Katombora, Livingstone, on the banks of the Zambezi River, at the meeting point of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The lodges occupy a private 15-kilometre stretch of the river, positioned upstream from Victoria Falls. River Lodge sits directly on the riverbank, while Island Lodge is located on Katombora Island. Both settings are surrounded by African wildlife, including hippopotamuses, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and African fish eagles. Larger wildlife such as buffalo, zebra, giraffe, and elephant occasionally make their way to the riverbanks. During the drier months from August to January, when the Zambezi is at its lowest level, the nearby Devil's Pool at Livingstone Island becomes accessible to visitors.
The property comprises 14 suites and villas across the two lodges. River Lodge offers suites of 80 square metres with a king bed, balcony or terrace overlooking the river. Island Lodge features larger suites of 150 square metres, also with a king bed and balcony or terrace. All accommodations feature colonial décor reminiscent of the era of early explorers, with furnishings and design that reflect this historical aesthetic.
The hotel restaurant serves Zambian cuisine in a range of settings. Guests may dine at the main restaurant or venture to remote island locations via boat, where dinner is served under the stars. Wine tasting experiences are available to guests.
The property offers spa treatments using natural African ingredients, available for private sessions within suites. A beauty centre is on-site. An unheated outdoor pool provides a central gathering point, and a fitness room serves those wishing to maintain their exercise routines. The lodge arranges extensive activities both on and off the property. Water-based pursuits include kayaking, sunset cruises, catch and release fishing, game fishing, and boat tours. Land-based activities include hiking, biking, horse riding, wildlife water safaris, cultural village tours, and cooking classes. Adrenaline activities such as helicopter tours over Victoria Falls, bungee jumping, and jet boats are also available. Golf facilities—both 9-hole and 18-hole courses—are located nearby.
Royal Chundu is designed for families, with dedicated amenities including family suites, kids clubs, baby-sitting services, high chairs, children's menus, and early dinner options. The riverside and island settings, with sunset cruises and intimate remote island dining, appeal strongly to couples seeking privacy. Wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers will find the extensive range of kayaking, fishing, safari, and expedition options compelling.
Editorial verification: Royal Chundu – Luxury Zambezi Lodges is affiliated with Relais & Châteaux; this was confirmed on the brand's own website or hotel list, and the hotel was matched to its official website by our editorial board.
Royal Chundu is located in Katombora, Livingstone, Zambia, on the Zambezi River, approximately 20 miles upstream from Victoria Falls.
Relais & Châteaux is an international alliance of independent luxury hotels and restaurants, each recognised for distinctive character and quality.
The property offers River Lodge Suites (80 square metres) with a king bed, and Island Lodge Suites (150 square metres) also with a king bed. Both feature colonial décor and balconies or terraces.
Yes. Royal Chundu provides family suites, kids clubs, baby-sitting services, high chairs, and children's menus.
Activities include kayaking, sunset cruises, game fishing, wildlife safaris, hiking, cooking classes, helicopter tours over Victoria Falls, boat tours, and many others.
Yes. The spa offers treatments with natural African ingredients, available for private sessions in suites or at the beauty centre.
Victoria Falls is approximately 20 miles from the lodge.
Royal Chundu – Luxury Zambezi Lodges is affiliated with Relais & Châteaux; this was confirmed on the brand's own website or hotel list, and the hotel was matched to its official website by our editorial board.
Royal Chundu – Luxury Zambezi Lodges is in Katombora, Zambia. Address: Katombora, Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia.
| Location | Katombora, Zambia |
|---|---|
| Address | Katombora, Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia |
| Brand / alliance | Relais & Châteaux |
| Official website | relaischateaux.com |
| Verified | by the editorial board |
Sources: relaischateaux.com/gb/hotel/royal-chundu-luxury-zambezi-lodges/
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hotel data: Wikidata (CC0), OpenStreetMap (ODbL), official websites.