Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge joins Mantis

- 2 March 2010

Opulent eco-sensitive Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge located in the Katombora forest surrounds on the Zambezi River banks in the Kazungula Province of Zambia joins Mantis’ elite of world leading destinations and eco experiences in Africa, United Kingdom, Europe, South America and the North and South Pole.

Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge, the meeting place of the Chief, is a place of absolute solitude and unspoilt beauty, where nature is untouched. It’s a destination where guests can journey back in time, explore David Livingstone’s backyard and discover the wild essence of Africa.

Positioned on a piece of untamed Africa with white water rapids protecting it up and downstream, Royal Chundu comprises of ten secluded mainland villas nestled in dense riverine foliage on the basalt banks of the mighty Zambezi - the 4th largest river in Africa – and an additional 4 island villas, built on stilts, on the private island of Katombora, overlooking the majestic watercourse and surrounding savanna bushveld.

On the mainland, each thatched villa is complete with spacious lounge, en-suite dining area, in addition to glass-walled showers and private decks offering commanding views of the Zambezi River and savanna terrain allowing guests to be ‘one’ with nature. Each villa links up to the main lodge via teak walkways. The main lodge features an indoor restaurant, library, TV lounge, boma, infinity swimming pool and indulgent spa facilities. About 4km upstream at Katombora Island, the 4 private island villas include a spacious lounge and separate dining area, glass walled showers and a private deck with an open air bath and plunge pool revealing superb sighting of the Zambezi surrounds and breathtaking sunsets.

Interiors, fabrics and fittings reflect a bygone era of colonial elegance blended with African charm. Some of the stylish features include shell embellished chandeliers and tailored netted drapes enveloping king sized beds creating a romantic and majestic African paradise where guests can absorb the nocturnal sounds of Africa. At Royal Chundu, true luxury awaits, every need and comfort is anticipated. Traditional and international cuisine can be savoured at Royal Chundu’s indoor dining restaurant or guests can treat themselves to an authentic African barbeque in the open air dining boma.

Hidden from civilization and the trappings of the modern world, Royal Chundu bestows the essence of Zambia, its people, where time and lifestyles remain unchanged, from authentic cultural traditions and customs of the Chundu people to fascinating accounts of myths and legends.

The Zambezi, unequaled in sheer magnificence has a unique value with its abundant natural resources and riverine woodlands, supporting wildlife such as buffalo, giraffe, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, bird life and interesting fish species (cichlids, catfish, tigerfish, yellowfish).

The natural surrounds offer unforgettable and thrilling sensations of Africa from game drives, boat cruises, canoeing trips, walks, fishing trips and bird safaris to name but a few. It’s a must for the most adventurous spirit.

About 30 km downstream from Royal Chundu, guests can discover the spectacular Victoria Falls – a heritage site and christened the ‘Seventh Wonder of the World’ and witness the magnificent convergence of two countries. Named by Dr David Livingstone (a Scottish missionary explorer) the Victoria Falls is the unforgettable location for picnics and excursions.

Other than encountering Katombora Island by foot, discovering the feathered treasures of the region and African wildlife, guests can also venture on a day trip to world famous Chobe National Park in neighbouring Botswana. Chobe boasts impressive elephant and buffalo populations - with these incredible animals in abundance guests will experience some of the best viewing on the African continent.

Situated in the Kazungula Province of Zambia, Royal Chundu is 30km upstream from Victoria Fall and 50 km from Livingstone Airport, an hour and a half flight from Johannesburg. Transfers are offered from airports, hotels and lodges in Livingstone, Victoria Falls and Kasane areas or any other location within 80 km of the lodge.