A Relais & Chateau member, Royal Chundu sits on the banks of the Zambezi River, 18 miles upstream from Victoria Falls, and is a first-class lodge.
Overview
Comprised of River and Island Lodges, Royal Chundu overlooks the Zambezi River and consists of shared areas and a total of 14 guest rooms. Both lodges are stylised similarly to one another, with ornate African chandeliers and large thatch roofing supported by rafters from local wood and made by master craftsmen. The only difference between the two is the size and use: River Lodge is larger and Island Lodge is exclusively available. The shared areas include a large lounge area, bar, indoor dining area, swimming pool and a boma with an outdoor dining area. Style-wise, both are very rustic-chic in design and are characterised by patterned rugs, cushion covers, and wall hangings. Please note there is WiFi available throughout the lodge.
Food & service
The food at Royal Chundu, described as ‘fine dining in the wilderness’, is cooked by local chefs who use local ingredients to form delicious flavour combinations. The staff are both attentive and professional. The bar is stocked with an array of premium alcohol, including a variety of beer, wine, gin and champagne.
Rooms
There are 10 guest rooms at Royal Chundu’s River Lodge and four villas at Island. River Lodge’s rooms are spacious, follow a design similar to the main shared area, and come with king-size beds, mosquito nets, a small lounge, large French windows and a private balcony. The villas in the Island Lodge have a similar look and feel to the River Lodge, but each comes with an extra private dining and lounge area. All bathrooms have a large double shower and a stand-alone bathtub. All rooms overlook the river and come with outdoor dining options and day beds.
Activities
Activities at Royal Chundu include day trips to Victoria Falls, river cruises, birding safaris, fishing, canoeing and trips to local villages. They also offer a Soulful River Retreat in the form of yoga, mindful walks and guided meditations.
Impact
Conservation
Royal Chundu support conservation by only working with suppliers who contribute to sustainable conservation efforts.
Commerce
The lodge is entirely Zambian-owned and managed, and sources the majority of its stock from a 4km radius of the lodge. Royal Chundu also provides seeds and expertise to anyone who shows an interest in growing food; subsequent produce is bought at fair market prices.
Community
Royal Chundu built and continue to support a foundation school for younger children. They began with a mere 10 children two years ago and now, after reaching out to surrounding communities, have over 50 students. An online learning programme is also available to all staff, and the lodge’s HR policy is to always promote from within.