Enjoy a romantic honeymoon on safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia. Be spoilt for a choice of activities or relax in the comfort of your suite in the bush.
2024 Honeymoon Package:
All newlyweds/honeymooners staying at Royal Zambezi Lodge in 2024 will receive the following:
A complimentary 15-minute foot massage per couple
A bottle of sparkling wine for dinner on the first night
Three-course romantic dinner for two on the private deck
Bubble Bath on the first night with bush confetti and candles (applicable for Presidential Suites only)
Room upgrade on arrival if available
A unique floating lunch date drifting down the mighty Zambezi River.
A complimentary 15-minute foot massage per couple
A bottle of sparkling wine for dinner on the first night
Three-course romantic dinner for two on the private deck
Bubble Bath on the first night with bush confetti and candles (applicable for Presidential Suites only)
Room upgrade on arrival if available
A unique floating lunch date drifting down the mighty Zambezi River.
Plus take advantage of our Royal Zambezi Lodge Holiday Offers
With lions roaring in the distance and hippos snorting nearby, the luxurious thatched suites, elegant design, and gourmet cuisine of Royal Zambezi Lodge provide a perfect base from which to explore this wild and beautiful area. There are no fences around the lodge and we have regular guests including elephants, hippos, buffalo, lions, leopards, and many types of birds coming to visit. We also have a few residents who I am sure you will meet – like Yale the elephant, Dave the crocodile, and Jonathan the giant kingfisher!
Royal Zambezi Lodge, a spacious but intimate privately owned lodge, situated in Zambia on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River just minutes from the Lower Zambezi National Park and directly opposite Zimbabwe’s famous Mana Pools World Heritage Site. Royal offers the ultimate in luxury and cuisine while enjoying and participating closely in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
Royal provides the perfect romantic setting for honeymoon couples, while its customized family suite works perfectly for family holidays. There is lots of space for all to enjoy their unique stay. The central building and individual private suites are designed to let nature play a leading role in ensuring the relaxed pace and magical experiences are enjoyed by guests.
Our property extends over 200 hectares of the Chiawa Game Management Area on the northern bank of the Zambezi River with its own 3.5 km of unspoiled river frontage and the scenic mountain backdrop of the valley escarpment. Royal is directly opposite the World Heritage Site, Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, and minutes from the Lower Zambezi National Park.
As the setting of the lodge is so special and unique we have kept the lodge in keeping with the bush while still providing you 5 Star accommodation. The lodge finds the perfect balance between contemporary, simplistic style and extreme comfort offering a completely unspoiled wilderness experience.
The 15 airy canopied canvas tents nestle under mature trees, and each is positioned for maximum enjoyment of the surrounding views and complete privacy (7 Presidential and 8 Deluxe Suites).
The 8 Deluxe Suites offer the perfect combination of contemporary comfort and understated elegance. The airy canopied canvas and thatched tents nestle under mature trees, each positioned for maximum enjoyment of the surrounding views and complete privacy. Natural tones, luxurious textures, and comfortable armchairs create a secluded retreat. Extra-length sprung mattresses with pure cotton linen and fine down pillows ensure a perfect night’s rest. Each suite provides a private plunge pool in which to cool down while overlooking the mighty Zambezi River.
The Presidential suites (156m2, deck = 39m2 & outside living area=90) epitomize the luxury safari experience. Being large with your own private sitting room, they offer space & privacy whilst allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness that surrounds them. With private pools, outside showers, baths, and private Salas, the suites provide ultimate luxury and are ideal for families (an extra bed can easily be accommodated), honeymoon couples, special occasion holidays, or those who simply want to experience Zambia’s finest safari accommodation.
The dedicated family unit consists of two Deluxe suites (6 & 7) which offer a shared seating area between the rooms for the whole family to enjoy. The two suites are strategically placed closest to the main area to provide peace of mind to parents with younger children preferring a shorter (escorted) walk between their suite and the central area.
The separate suites are enclosed and safe enough for children to enjoy their own suites with parents staying in the suite next door. However, we are happy to accommodate one parent sharing Deluxe 6 with a child and the other parent sharing Deluxe 7 with another child upon request. We also have 3 Presidential suites on offer for families wanting to be under one roof, with the addition of extra beds and mosquito nets for the comfort of the entire family. These suites have been designed as a large open plan home-away-from-home and befitting of the wilderness surroundings.
The eight deluxe suites (62m2, deck = 20m2 & outside living area =22m2) have private pools, a day bed (sala), and an inside and an outside bathroom (shower and copper bath) giving guests the choice of showering inside or under the stars. The airy canopied canvas suites nestle under mature trees, and each is positioned for maximum enjoyment of the surrounding views and complete privacy.
GUEST AREAS
The open-plan reception area, dining room, and lounge have classic architectural lines and lofty thatched roofs. Two enormous fireplaces, comfortable sofas and armchairs, white linen tablecloths, and cheerful personalized service create a haven of easy luxury. A wide copper-roofed verandah provides an informal space for al fresco dining or taking tea in the afternoon. Timber decks extend over the river shallows, perfect for fine dining under the stars, or sitting around the campfire listening to the sounds of the African night. During the day, the decks overlook a reed bed, a fascinating micro-ecology affording close study of bird and fish life as well as elephant, hippo, and buffalo.
In the evenings, guests gather at the legendary Sausage Tree Bar, unquestionably the best watering hole on the river. Built around an ancient tree, its timber deck extends right out over the swiftly flowing channel, the perfect spot for sipping an ice-cold G & T while the sun sets in a fiery spectacle. Next to the bar is a long oval infinity pool set in a stunning natural timber deck, the perfect place for cooling off with a tall cocktail or sun tanning next to the river after a morning game drive.
CUISINE
Meals are made from the finest fresh ingredients, dinner is served at either the long banquet table or at private tables under the stars, whilst breakfast and lunch may be served in the lodge or as a picnic during a morning of activities. For a special occasion, Royal Zambezi Lodge is happy to offer a candlelit dinner with a difference - on an island in the Zambezi – or in the African bush.
SPA
One of the only bush Spas in Zambia, Royal’s spa facilities include two air-conditioned treatment rooms, an outdoor treatment area, an aroma-filled steam room, a Jacuzzi, and a refreshing plunge pool. The therapeutic sessions offer an ideal retreat for guests wanting to escape their busy lives and experience a way of living often neglected. While the sights and sounds of the wild lull you into a state of complete relaxation and peace, breathe in the fresh bush air to awaken your senses and revitalize your mind, body, and soul.
ACTIVITIES
The location for Royal Zambezi Lodge was chosen particularly for the wide variety of activities available, including fishing, fly-fishing, game viewing, sunset river cruises, professionally guided canoeing trips, open vehicle guided drives, night drives, and walking safaris.
In the evenings, guests gather at the legendary Sausage Tree Bar, unquestionably the best watering hole on the river. Built around an ancient tree, its timber deck extends right out over the swiftly flowing channel, the perfect spot for sipping an ice-cold G & T while the sun sets in a fiery spectacle. Next to the bar is a long oval infinity pool set in a stunning natural timber deck, the perfect place for cooling off with a tall cocktail or sun tanning next to the river after a morning game drive.
CUISINE
Meals are made from the finest fresh ingredients, dinner is served at either the long banquet table or at private tables under the stars, whilst breakfast and lunch may be served in the lodge or as a picnic during a morning of activities. For a special occasion, Royal Zambezi Lodge is happy to offer a candlelit dinner with a difference - on an island in the Zambezi – or in the African bush.
SPA
One of the only bush Spas in Zambia, Royal’s spa facilities include two air-conditioned treatment rooms, an outdoor treatment area, an aroma-filled steam room, a Jacuzzi, and a refreshing plunge pool. The therapeutic sessions offer an ideal retreat for guests wanting to escape their busy lives and experience a way of living often neglected. While the sights and sounds of the wild lull you into a state of complete relaxation and peace, breathe in the fresh bush air to awaken your senses and revitalize your mind, body, and soul.
ACTIVITIES
The location for Royal Zambezi Lodge was chosen particularly for the wide variety of activities available, including fishing, fly-fishing, game viewing, sunset river cruises, professionally guided canoeing trips, open vehicle guided drives, night drives, and walking safaris.
Fishing: The Lower Zambezi offers one of the finest freshwater angling experiences in the world. Species found here are Chessa, Nkupe, Bream, Vundu, Barbel, and of course the famous Tigerfish! The best time for Tiger Fish is during our hot months between September and March. Expert resident guides take fishing excursions on new, fully-fitted aluminum boats and knowledgeable boatmen know where all the good spots are. For guests who are new to fishing or fly fishing, our guides provide expert instruction and assistance. Rods tackle, and flies are provided although enthusiasts may bring their own. All fishing is on a catch-and-release basis.
Game viewing: The lodge is surrounded by a game management area that offers fantastic game viewing in open woodland, grassy floodplains, and riverine forest. The Lower Zambezi National Park, only five minutes' drive away, is home to huge herds of elephants and buffalo and offers frequent and reliable Lion and Leopard sightings. Our guides are qualified and enthusiastic, and between them have over 50 years of experience guiding in the Zambezi Valley.
The river is an ideal place to view wildlife and birdlife. Clients can opt for open vehicle drives, night drives, bush walks in the area or boat trips for game-viewing. Enjoy Walking Safaris, Photographic Safaris, and Birding Safaris - the riverine ecosystem hosts spectacular birdlife.
Sunset River Cruises: Enjoy the true majesty and tranquillity of the Zambezi River with drinks on a sunset river cruise.
Canoeing Trips: One of the best ways to experience the true beauty of the river and get up close to animals on the river banks. Our guides are experienced and qualified for canoe safaris and have a vast knowledge of the wildlife and birdlife of the area. There are few things more relaxing than drifting gently down the river in a canoe. Whether you are exploring the water-hyacinth studded channels, getting up close to elephants, buffalo, and hippos, or bird watching, this is the best way to experience the Zambezi. Guides will take you out on either morning, evening, or full-day excursions.
Game viewing: The lodge is surrounded by a game management area that offers fantastic game viewing in open woodland, grassy floodplains, and riverine forest. The Lower Zambezi National Park, only five minutes' drive away, is home to huge herds of elephants and buffalo and offers frequent and reliable Lion and Leopard sightings. Our guides are qualified and enthusiastic, and between them have over 50 years of experience guiding in the Zambezi Valley.
The river is an ideal place to view wildlife and birdlife. Clients can opt for open vehicle drives, night drives, bush walks in the area or boat trips for game-viewing. Enjoy Walking Safaris, Photographic Safaris, and Birding Safaris - the riverine ecosystem hosts spectacular birdlife.
Sunset River Cruises: Enjoy the true majesty and tranquillity of the Zambezi River with drinks on a sunset river cruise.
Canoeing Trips: One of the best ways to experience the true beauty of the river and get up close to animals on the river banks. Our guides are experienced and qualified for canoe safaris and have a vast knowledge of the wildlife and birdlife of the area. There are few things more relaxing than drifting gently down the river in a canoe. Whether you are exploring the water-hyacinth studded channels, getting up close to elephants, buffalo, and hippos, or bird watching, this is the best way to experience the Zambezi. Guides will take you out on either morning, evening, or full-day excursions.
Cultural Village tour – Visitors to Chiawa Cultural Village will be able to experience the rich heritage of the Goba community, how the Goba live in the Lower Zambezi, performance arts, Zambian cuisine, and more.
Mountain Hiking – with the mountain backdrop to the Lower Zambezi National Park a variety of walks and climbs can be arranged with our guides – some which will put you to the test and others which will simply provide mild exercise.
ACCESS
Royal Zambezi Lodge is accessible by regular scheduled flights and charter flights from Lusaka (25mins). Flights land at the newly upgraded and surfaced Royal Aerodrome which is 5 minute drive from the Lodge. Alternatively, flights land at Jeki Airstrip, and a road transfer would be arranged (see below). Access by road takes a minimum of 5 hours from Lusaka requiring a four-wheel drive.
GENERAL INFORMATION
RECOMMENDED LENGTH OF STAY: Take full advantage of everything on offer, stays at Royal Zambezi Lodge should be a minimum of 4-5 nights.
CLIMATE: The climate in the Lower Zambezi can vary greatly. It is generally cool and dry from April to August, hot and dry from September to December, and wet and humid from January to March.
TEMPERATURES: Minimum temperatures around 14ºC, maximum 40ºC.
MEDICAL: The lodge is covered by Medical Air Rescue Services, boats and vehicles are equipped with medical aid kits and the lodge managers are paramedic qualified. As the lodge is situated in a malarial area, it is strongly advised that clients take malaria prophylactics before and after their stay at the Lodge.
ACCESS
Royal Zambezi Lodge is accessible by regular scheduled flights and charter flights from Lusaka (25mins). Flights land at the newly upgraded and surfaced Royal Aerodrome which is 5 minute drive from the Lodge. Alternatively, flights land at Jeki Airstrip, and a road transfer would be arranged (see below). Access by road takes a minimum of 5 hours from Lusaka requiring a four-wheel drive.
GENERAL INFORMATION
RECOMMENDED LENGTH OF STAY: Take full advantage of everything on offer, stays at Royal Zambezi Lodge should be a minimum of 4-5 nights.
CLIMATE: The climate in the Lower Zambezi can vary greatly. It is generally cool and dry from April to August, hot and dry from September to December, and wet and humid from January to March.
TEMPERATURES: Minimum temperatures around 14ºC, maximum 40ºC.
MEDICAL: The lodge is covered by Medical Air Rescue Services, boats and vehicles are equipped with medical aid kits and the lodge managers are paramedic qualified. As the lodge is situated in a malarial area, it is strongly advised that clients take malaria prophylactics before and after their stay at the Lodge.
Royal Zambezi Lodge Normal Rates in USD |
Secret Season - January - May & December 2024 |
High - June - November 2024 |
|
Per Person Sharing | Per Person Sharing | ||
Deluxe Rooms | Adults | $675 | $970 |
Teenagers (13-16 yrs) | $520 | $747 | |
Children (8-12 yrs) | $338 | $485 | |
Children (2-7 yrs) | $169 | $243 | |
Infants (under 2 yrs) - On Request | Free of charge | ||
Presidential Suites | Adults | $819 | $1,113 |
Teenagers (13-16 yrs) | $631 | $857 | |
Children (8-12 yrs) | $410 | $557 | |
Children (2-7 yrs) | $205 | $279 | |
Infants (under 2 yrs) - On Request | Free of charge | ||
Per Unit | Per Unit | ||
Family Unit | 2x Adults & 2x Children | $2,208 | $3,172 |
Rates Include:
Accommodation
All meals, soft drinks, house wines, local beers, non-premium drinks,
filtered water, teas, coffees
Two (2) activities per day
Complimentary 15 min. foot/hand massage at the Royal Bush Spa
Laundry & Wi-Fi
Return Royal Airstrip transfers
Green levy
16% VAT and tourism levy
All meals, soft drinks, house wines, local beers, non-premium drinks,
filtered water, teas, coffees
Two (2) activities per day
Complimentary 15 min. foot/hand massage at the Royal Bush Spa
Laundry & Wi-Fi
Return Royal Airstrip transfers
Green levy
16% VAT and tourism levy
Rates Exclude:
National Park entry fees: $85 pp/day - Covers all aspects of park entry including entry for game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and fishing as applicable.
Champagne, premium wine & spirits, imported beers (various prices)
Fly-fishing - Free of charge for up to 2 people, thereafter $50 per person per day due to the use of an extra boat (Max 2 pax per boat for fly fishing) *Standard fishing included.
Fishing tackle hire ($25 pp/day).
Scout fee for Chilapila Hiking Challenge - $50 flat fee for one scout (Max 6 hikers) More than 6 pax, an additional scout is required at an extra $50. (NB: Challenge only available in winter months: June/July/August)
Cultural Village Visit ($50 per person - minimum 2 pax.)
Late check-out fee - $150 per person to cover lunch & extra activity. Use of room is not included. (Can be prepaid).
Flights/transfers/charters to the Lower Zambezi.
Departure Tax at Livingstone, Lusaka & Mfuwe Airports - $16 pp/per departure payable directly by guest/s at relevant airports.
Passenger Safety Tax (Light Aircraft) | $5 pp/per departure. This fee will be added to charter quotes/invoices by the relevant charter company.
Royal Bush Spa & shop.
Jeki Airstrip Transfer/Activity (Min 2 pax) | $70 per person one-way. Includes transfer & National Park fees for half-day activity. Approximately 1.5 hr transfer or 2-3 hr activity.
Lusaka meet + greet - $20 per person. (Please pre-book).
Champagne, premium wine & spirits, imported beers (various prices)
Fly-fishing - Free of charge for up to 2 people, thereafter $50 per person per day due to the use of an extra boat (Max 2 pax per boat for fly fishing) *Standard fishing included.
Fishing tackle hire ($25 pp/day).
Scout fee for Chilapila Hiking Challenge - $50 flat fee for one scout (Max 6 hikers) More than 6 pax, an additional scout is required at an extra $50. (NB: Challenge only available in winter months: June/July/August)
Cultural Village Visit ($50 per person - minimum 2 pax.)
Late check-out fee - $150 per person to cover lunch & extra activity. Use of room is not included. (Can be prepaid).
Flights/transfers/charters to the Lower Zambezi.
Departure Tax at Livingstone, Lusaka & Mfuwe Airports - $16 pp/per departure payable directly by guest/s at relevant airports.
Passenger Safety Tax (Light Aircraft) | $5 pp/per departure. This fee will be added to charter quotes/invoices by the relevant charter company.
Royal Bush Spa & shop.
Jeki Airstrip Transfer/Activity (Min 2 pax) | $70 per person one-way. Includes transfer & National Park fees for half-day activity. Approximately 1.5 hr transfer or 2-3 hr activity.
Lusaka meet + greet - $20 per person. (Please pre-book).
Book your This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. now (combines well with South Luangwa or Victoria Falls).