Welcome to  Royal Chundu

Royal Chundu is more than a destination, it’s a celebration of Zambia’s heart and heritage. Nestled along the Zambezi River between two wonders, Victoria Falls and the Katambora Rapids. Every stay here tells a story of stillness, belonging, and beauty.

Our Story

Our Story Of Passion And Connection

Founded as Zambia’s first Relais & Châteaux property, Royal Chundu was built on the belief that travel can transform — not only for those who journey here, but for the communities that make it possible. We’ve woven this philosophy into every part of our story, from the ingredients in our kitchen to the crafts in your suite.

Over the years, we’ve become a sanctuary for travellers seeking authenticity and purpose. Whether floating down the Zambezi at sunset or sharing stories around the fire, Royal Chundu offers a rare connection to the land, its people, and a slower rhythm of life.

Our Location

A Private Stretch Of The Zambezi

Map showing Royal Chundu location on the Zambezi River

A world between two wonders. Royal Chundu rests on a secluded, 15-kilometre stretch of the Zambezi River — a private waterway shared only with local fishermen, birds, and the rhythm of the wild. Nestled between the majestic Victoria Falls downstream and the peaceful Katambora Rapids upstream, our lodges offer a rare kind of tranquillity: untouched, untamed, and entirely yours.

Aerial view of Royal Chundu on the Zambezi River

Here, the Zambezi reveals its gentler side — wide, glassy, and teeming with life. Each sunrise paints the river in gold, each sunset in deep violet. From your deck, you'll watch fishermen drift by in makoro canoes, hear the call of the fish eagle, and feel the river's quiet heartbeat that makes Royal Chundu unlike anywhere else in Africa.

This is Zambia at its most intimate — a private paradise suspended between water, sky, and wonder.

Lodge on the Zambezi River at Royal Chundu

Royal Chundu School

Educating The Next Generation

Empowering young minds along the Zambezi. Education is at the heart of Royal Chundu’s mission to uplift the communities that make our home so extraordinary. Through the Royal Chundu School, we provide local children with access to quality education, resources, and a safe, inspiring space to learn and grow — right here on the banks of the Zambezi.

Our guests’ stays directly support the school’s operations, teacher salaries, and daily meals for the students. Many of our staff’s children attend the school, and each classroom reflects the shared values of curiosity, creativity, and community that define Royal Chundu.

The difference is already visible — students who once faced long journeys to attend distant schools now learn close to home; girls who might not have had the opportunity to study are thriving; and the next generation is discovering that their future can be built right here, by the river.

Every guest who visits Royal Chundu becomes part of this story — helping us create a legacy of knowledge, confidence, and hope for Zambia’s future. Because when one child learns, an entire community grows.

Close up of student at Royal Chundu School

A fisherman on the Zambezi River at Royal Chundu

Sustainability & Conservation

Protecting The Lifeblood Of The Zambezi

Where conservation flows through everything we do. At Royal Chundu, the Zambezi is more than a backdrop — it’s our lifeline. Every sunrise, every meal, and every moment of stillness begins and ends with the river. That’s why we’ve built our philosophy around protecting it — ensuring that the waters that sustain us today will do the same for generations to come.

From solar power and sustainable water management to locally sourced produce and zero-waste principles, every decision at Royal Chundu reflects a deep respect for the land and its rhythms. Our water is drawn, filtered, and reused responsibly to preserve the purity of this vital ecosystem, while our waste systems are designed to leave the lightest possible footprint.

By partnering with local farmers, fishermen, and artisans, we reduce transportation impact and create circular systems that give back to the communities around us.

Here, sustainability isn’t an initiative — it’s a way of life. The Zambezi gives us life, and in return, we protect her flow.

100% Zambian

The Heart Of Royal Chundu

Proudly Zambian. Authentically Royal Chundu. Every smile, every meal, every story shared along the river is brought to life by our fully Zambian team — the true soul of Royal Chundu. From our chefs and guides to our housekeepers, boat captains, and management, each member embodies the warmth, pride, and hospitality that define Zambia.

We believe the most meaningful luxury comes from people who love where they are and what they do. Our team doesn’t just work here — they belong here. Many have grown up along this very stretch of the Zambezi, carrying generations of knowledge about its currents, its wildlife, and its spirit.

By employing and empowering 100% Zambian staff, we ensure that every guest experience directly supports local livelihoods, skills development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Our success is not only measured by awards, but by the growth, confidence, and opportunity we see in our team every day.

At Royal Chundu, the river connects us — and our people make it unforgettable.

our team

Meet the Team

The heart of Royal Chundu lies in its people — a family of passionate hosts, chefs, guides, and visionaries dedicated to creating a sense of home for every guest.

David Shapilo

Junior Manager

Tina Bader

Owner and MD

Aggie Maseko Banda

Lodge Manager & Partner

Hessah Silwebbe

Lodge Manager & Partner

Salwa Birtles

Reservations Manager

Tamlin Wightman

Media Manager

Dinde Lumbia

Financial Manager & Partner

Stephanie Mbangweta

Food & Beverage Manager / Hosting

Emily Foto

Duty Manager

our instagram

Follow Our Journey

Experience daily moments of life along the Zambezi — follow us on Instagram for stories, sunsets, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of Royal Chundu.

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Our Partners

Our Partners & Affiliations

We’re proud to collaborate with organisations that share our values of excellence, authenticity, and sustainability.

our blog

Stories From The Zambezi

Dive deeper into the Royal Chundu experience. Read stories from our guests, community, and team — from travel inspiration to behind-the-scenes tales of life on the river.

Culture

The Royal Chundu Riverstead Experience

The Royal Chundu Riverstead Experience is a beautifully immersive, slower-paced offering that takes guests back to nature. It provides hands-on moments rooted in farm, garden, and village life.