Stunning lodge camouflaged along the banks of the Zambezi River
A hideaway of untold tranquillity where romance and adventure are intertwined for the perfect getaway
Royal Chundu is found on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, a hideaway of untold tranquillity where romance and adventure are intertwined for the perfect getaway. Further downstream lies the iconic Victoria Falls, only 30km away. A Relais & Châteaux member, Royal Chundu encompasses two lodges, River Lodge and Island Lodge, both with kaleidoscopic views of the Zambezi River. Royal Chundu is a superb year-round destination, with each season bringing something unique to the Zambezi and Victoria Falls experience. Located between Kasane and Livingstone, Royal Chundu is reached by 50-minute road transfer from Livingstone International Airport.
Royal Chundu River Lodge has ten exclusive suites along the riverfront, disguised among the riverine vegetation. Thatched roofing and interior furnishings echo the Zambezi hues and accentuate the surrounding natural beauty. There is an outdoor boma for dinners around the fire as well as a lounge and bar area. Close to a helicopter pad, River Lodge is easily accessed and welcomes children.
The Royal Chundu Island Lodge has four spacious villas. The well-appointed suites, splashed with cobalt blue and earthy palettes, open up onto private decks overlooking the river rapids. Refresh in the infinity pool and in the evenings relax in a riverfront bathtub - the perfect romantic getaway.
Activities at Royal Chundu are boundless, and once you’ve attempted these, there are plenty more opportunities downstream at the iconic Victoria Falls. Sunset cruises, river safaris, canoeing on the Zambezi, taking part (or spectating) the Parrotfish Run – an annual migration of Parrotfish – a community tour, helicopter flight, private picnics in the blissful bush, tiger fishing or birding safaris are some of the activities available. We love that on a guided island or community walk, you will gain insight into the local traditions and customs as well as into the plants and herbs used for traditional medicine and to make cooking oil, soap, and other necessities.
Alistair
Let one of our experts help your craft an unforgettable experience
Our favourite Livingstone lodges and hotels
Best places to stay in Vic Falls
When to go to Zambia
Find out the best time to visit Zambia with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a good time to visit Victoria Falls, but the rest of the country is very humid and wet leading to many camps shutting during January.
February
February remains wet, so its a good month to visit the thundering Victoria Falls, however only a few camps stay open for boating and walking. The rains have created lush vegetation, during this time of year it is alive with the sound of migratory birds in their breeding plumage, an excellent time for birders to visit Zambia.
March
If you want to witness Vic Falls at its fullest, March is the month to visit, with huge volumes of spray often obscuring the view. The birding is still magnificent in March, and camps offer fantastic value for money as there are no crowds.
April
In April the weather starts to dry, however rain remains a prominent feature of April. In the Lower Zambezi National Park, lush vegetation is at its thickest making animals more difficult to spot. April is seen to be the best time of year to witness the rarely seen Wild Dog in South Luangwa National Park.
May
May is a mixed month, the onset of the dry season means rains are unlikely, however access to certain camps is tricky due to sodden grounds. Game viewing in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi begin to improve as the vegetation things and waterholes begin to dry up, forcing wildlife together.
June
June is a great time to visit Zambia, the ground starts to dry out and camps are offering excellent deals and there are few visitors to share safari vehicles so you may have some areas to yourself.
July
July is high season, temperatures rise and all the camps are officially open. If you want to see game then South Luangwa is the best option, whereas the Lower Zambezi is perfect for river cruises and fishing.
Victoria falls is at its best, without being overly wet and clouded with spray.
August
August's hot and dry weather kicks off what Zambia is famous for, walking safaris. It is the prime time to combine game viewing with Victoria Falls.
September
Temperatures sore in September reaching high 20's making the long days particularly pleasant. This month sees Carmine Bee Eaters arrive, flocks of hundreds nest in river banks providing a thrilling spectacle of colour and sound.
October
October sees temperatures sore again, game viewing is best done in the early mornings to avoid the hot midday sun.
November
November brings the start of the rainy season, but the good news is the sporadic showers are not too disruptive and visitors get to see dramatic skies and stormy skies brewing. Temperatures are high and it can be humid, but the mixed weather brings great value stays. Plus many young animals are being born, making it a fantastic time to see the parks come to life.
December
The rainy season is in full force in December, grasslands begin to lengthen, foliage thickens and game viewing becomes a little trickier. The rivers rise and dependant on water levels travellers can visit 'devils pool' at Vic Falls, providing high excitement and a head for heights needed if you want to get close to the drop off.
Speak to a Zambia expert today.
Start planning your dream visit to Victoria Falls.
Alistair
Plan with an expert
Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715
A tailor-made itinerary just for you
Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.
Value guarantee
Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.