MANTIS ADDS ROYAL CHUNDU ZAMBEZI RIVER LODGE IN ZAMBIA

KAZUNGULA PROVINCE, ZAMBIA (04/2010) Mantis, marketer and manager of boutique hotels, resorts and game reserves across Africa, Europe, the Americas and Antarctica, has added Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge in Zambia to its ever-growing, golden portfolio of luxurious, five-star properties.

Royal Chundu is an opulent, eco-sensitive lodge set in the Katombora Forest on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia, just 18 miles downstream from one of the world’s seven natural wonders, Victoria Falls. The Royal Chundu (meeting place of the chief) comprises 10 secluded brick-under-thatch villas on the banks of the river and four island villas built on stilts two-and-a-half miles upstream on the private island of Katombora.

Strategically built in harmony with its natural surroundings, each of the mainland villas features a spacious lounge, en-suite dining area, glass-walled showers and private decks offering uninterrupted views of the Zambezi, Africa’s fourth largest river. The island villas are similar to those on the mainland, but the dining area is separate and the decks offer an open air bath and plunge pool. Via teak walkways, the villas link to the main lodge which houses an indoor restaurant, library, TV lounge, boma, spa facilities and an infinity swimming pool with sun lounges and thatched umbrellas.

Interiors, fabrics and fittings reflect a bygone era of colonial elegance blended with African charm. Stylish appointments include shell-embellished chandeliers and tailored netted curtains enveloping king-sized beds.

Activities include game drives, boat cruises, canoeing trips, walks, fishing trips, bird safaris, exploring Katombora Island on foot, and visiting in neighboring Botswana, the world-famous Chobe National Park, which boasts impressive elephant and buffalo populations.

And no trip to Zambia would be complete without viewing (or picnicking by) Victoria Falls, also known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“the smoke that thunders”), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Scottish explorer Dr. David Livingstone is believed to be the first European to lay eyes on the world’s largest curtain of falling water, and he named it after Britain’s reigning monarch.

Royal Chundu is 30 miles from Livingstone Airport and an hour and a half flight from Johannesburg. Transfers are offered from airports, hotels and lodges in Livingstone, Victoria Falls and Kasane areas or any other location within 50 miles of the lodge.

For more information on Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge, please contact Mantis Central Reservations at +27 (0) 41 407 10000 or email reservations@mantiscollection.com or visit www.mantiscollection.com.