Our Story: Three Generations, One Land

At Chundukwa River Lodge, family is at the heart of everything we do. Our story began in the wilds of Zambia, where Doug and Gail, passionate conservationists, have spent over 40 years exploring, observing, and championing the protection of this land. For three generations, our family farm has been a testament to the beauty of Africa and our commitment to preserving its natural wonders.

In 1992, the dream of Chundukwa River Lodge came to life. Built on a shoestring budget, with Doug’s small government pension from National Parks, we started with just four rustic chalets along the Zambezi River. Doug, an adventurous spirit, would ride his horses to the airport to pick up guests—a time when this was still possible! Back then, only a few lodges operated nearby, and the natural beauty was untouched. Gail fondly remembers, “When I first met Doug, we’d sit at the stables and watch herds of 150 elephants pass by on their way to drink from the river. Those were special days.”

Doug constructed the lodge with a vision to respect the land, ensuring minimal disturbance to the environment. The chalets were built on stilts, designed to blend seamlessly with the riverine forest, so that guests could experience the synergy between nature and wildlife—without affecting the movement of hippos and other river life. "It was a mission to get those stilts in," Doug explains. "We had to manually sink 44-gallon drums into the riverbed, put the poles in, and pour concrete—all without removing any vegetation."

From Rustic Beginnings to Luxury on the Zambezi

Thirty years later, Chundukwa River Lodge has evolved into a luxurious eco-lodge, yet it remains true to its roots. Located just 25 km from Victoria Falls, we offer a peaceful sanctuary on the banks of the Zambezi, close enough for guests to explore the region’s wonders, yet far enough to enjoy quiet seclusion.

Set on our expansive horse ranch, with trails that wind through indigenous gardens and lagoons, guests can enjoy everything from serene birdwatching to thrilling horse safaris. Our stables are at the heart of this experience, offering guided horse trails through the wilds and Zambian Horseback Safaris in the remote Simalaha Wildlife Conservancy, where Doug’s lifelong dream of leading multi-day rides in untouched wilderness has finally come true.

With five stunning Riverside Chalets and a private cottage, Chundukwa is a place where you can completely unwind, immersing yourself in the tranquility of farm life and the untamed beauty of Zambia. Whether you choose to be adventurous or simply relax, you’ll feel at home with us.

Our Team, the heartbeat of Chundukwa

We are very proud of our small team of dedicated staff who have been for the most part with Chundukwa for many years, having started on the farm and stables before working their way into key positions in the lodge. Our aim is to offer individuals a grounding in many aspects of hospitality - everything from learning how to make compost, gardening, maintenance, making beds, guiding, cooking, first aid, conservation and waitering – often times taking relevant and useful tips home to their families and community.

Zambians are a very kind and hospitable people, always smiling and welcoming, whichever part of the county you may travel to.