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#4 of 27 lodges in Victoria Falls
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Private and peaceful, a birdlover’s paradise bounded by wildlife, here you will find the best of Africa’s natural offerings from a seasonal beach and flooded marshes to lush wetlands and open grasslands. Breath-taking Chundu Island, accessible by boat, is only 21kms upstream from Zimbabwe’s legendary Victoria Falls. Eight spacious palm thatched rooms, each with their own private deck and perfect view of the Zambezi, are nestled beneath magnificent riverine trees. Chundu is perfectly positioned to provide guests with prime access to the Zambezi National Park, where 4×4 safaris soak up the sights and sounds of the African bush. Enjoy the wealth of the bush and Zambezi River with walking trails, river cruises and fishing. Chundu provides the perfect foil to the bustling town’s excitement. Maximize the flight to Victoria Falls and enjoy the peace and privacy of island living, canoeing and river cruises as well as game drives and bush walks.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Pool
Free breakfast
Canoeing
Canoeing offsite
Babysitting
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Airport transportation
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Complimentary tea
Fishing
Massage
Mosquito net
Laundry service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Desk
Housekeeping
Safe
Seating area
Minibar
Refrigerator
Bath / shower
Iron
Complimentary toiletries
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Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Smoking rooms available
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HOTEL CLASS
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Charming
Languages Spoken
English
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114Reviews1Q+A21Room tips
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Amazing, helpful and friendly staff. The food was great. The rooms are beautiful and adds to the tranquility of the lodge. They offer a variety of activities. We had a lovely stay and would definitely go back.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Rooms
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Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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+1
I had a fantastic time, the staff took such good care of me. I had a wonderfully surprise of a big herd of ellies crossing the river as arrived. Was spectacular. Jet boat transfer. What a adventurous experience. Not to be missed. These guys really know their business on the river and the whole experience was phenomenal. On this transfer alone we saw, Ellies. Buffalo, Zebra, Waterbuck, Hippo and crocs off course. The second skipper was great pointing out the sightings, too. Guides were very knowledgeable, especially Thinkwell was very communicative. Waitrons were phenomenal. Well done to Brian, Clotes and the older chap I did not get his name. Very impressed. There is security at night and Kindness the security guard was very friendly and attentive. The rooms are fantastic, everything you need and more. Spacious with screen doors to allow cool iron, with a big patio right on the waters edge. Wow your chef is amazing. Everything was delicious. Wow wow delicious. Activities, Captain B kept his eye on any interesting birds etc. I did the Island walk this with both Captain B and Thinkwell and enjoyed it thoroughly. Learned a few new things which is always an indication of a great guide to me. Johannes who was managing did a good job and was present all the time to ensure everything ran smoothly I must commend overall communication, all the staff was great, friendly, and informative, checking on plans and general guest well being, getting food orders and drinks orders well in advance. It felt very well I loved my time and was sad to leave. …
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Wow, what an incredible holiday. We travel often to the bush, but nothing beats a Zambezi Sun Set. The transfer from the airport to the park was seamless with a friendly taxi driver who dropped us off with our guide Johanness. He had our game vehicle ready with ice-cold drinks for our 45-minute game drive to get to Chundu Island. We got to see Elephant, Buffalo, Buck, Giraffe, Warthogs, and of course the beautiful Zambezi river at certain sections. We arrived with 2 Gentlemen on time and ready to take us to the island which is only 5 minutes from the pick-up point. We were greeted at Chundu with facecloths and cold cocktails to welcome us to the island. The lodge wraps around both sides so no matter where you sit, you have a 360 degree view of the river. The communal area is clean and modern. The staff are friendly and very proactive, you never have to find someone to get you a drink. You are offered options for a 3-course meal with extra snacks before and on the sunset cruises. There is also a lovely pool to relax at. We also had the opportunity to visit Victoria Falls which is truly spectacular. The lodge is very kid-friendly with very spacious family rooms, but also very private and romantic for a couple getaway. We enjoyed our 13-year anniversary there which was memorable and a trip we will never forget. The highlight of the holiday was the sunset and sunset cruises, it's out of this world. Thank you to the team at Chundu, we will certainly be returning.…
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
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Service
Room Tip: The Victoria Falls is a must excursion together with sunset cruises in the evening
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 17 Oct 2023
Dear Guide53233770865 Thank you very much for the wonderful and detailed review. We are delighted that your anniversary trip was so special and look forward to helping you celebrate many more milestones. Kind regards Nikki Meyer
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Great experience. Friendly, fun staff who are very know their Island. Great food, great accommodation and an amazing getaway place for all adventure loving folk. Will definitely go there again. Fantastic birding experience.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Rooms
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Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 17 Oct 2023
Hi Sharon Thank you very much for the great review. So glad that you enjoyed your stay on the island! I have to agree, it is a very special place and the birding is amazing. Kind regards Nikki Meyer
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Fabulous lodge in a great location. Each canvas lodge is very large with huge king bed, very comfortable and beautifully decorated. Although we got a cold spell the hot water bottles and thick duvet made for a wonderful night's sleep even with the window open (we wanted to hear nature's sounds). In morning we saw a large crocodile swim past. We obviously didn't use the pool due to cold weather but it's in a beautiful setting. Food was very good and staff all friendly. Johannes our guide took us on daily game drives and we saw plenty of game. He also took our grandchildren fishing and all of us to Victoria falls. Dudley the manager was very friendly and helpful in every way. Highly recommended
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
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Room Tip: Take US $ in cash for extras.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 06 Sept 2023
Hi Stefmcm Thank you for the lovely review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay with us and wish to thank you for taking the time to post a review and recommend Chundu Island. I do hope that if you're ever in the area we'll have the pleasure of hosting you and your family again. Kind regards Nikki Meyer
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What could be more idyllic, an exclusive, all inclusive, private island camp on the Zambezi above the great Victoria Falls…. Unfortunately what was on paper didn’t match reality. Yes, the location is great - the canvas chalets are well presented and set so you don’t feel overlooked. A comfortable verandah leads to views over the river. The facilities are well presented, massive stand-alone bath, twin basins, outdoor rustic shower and separate toilet. But that’s where the myth meets reality. The hot water tank is so small that only 1 person can get a shower per day - let alone fill the bath. Forget any morning ablution as the water is ice cold by then. The canvas means you can hear everything in the small space, the provision of hot water bottles did nothing for the cold of the night and the mosquito nets in the twin bedroom could let in a large African Elephant. The set-up is odd, no female staff in sight anywhere. Bar staff didn’t know how to use a cork-screw and when asked for cafeteria coffee several teaspoons of granulated rubbish was dumped in the pot then the plunger set. The two biggest travesties were the food and alcohol. At no point was a menu provided - you basically had to eat what was provided. The bar was non-existent, any drink you wanted was prepared behind closed doors and then presented. Which leads on to premium alcohol. The camps selection of spirits included Zimbabwean whisky, vodka, rum, some unknown gin. The wine was £2.52 (I checked on Vivino) vinegar. If you wanted “premium” you had to pay - which included Jonny walker black label, but at no point were you told how much it cost. When it came to the bill, the manager (Dudley) demanded cash (usd) - which we didn’t have, he said we should get it out of a cash machine in town. For $1000 a night I don’t expect this type of service. Finally, it’s an hour drive into the park on some of the worst game drive roads ever. On the return journey it took 40mins and I was left with bruising and pain in my lower back. I do not recommend this place at all. For its cost it is very poor. Having stayed in camps on walking safaris in Luwangwa, High class accom in Hwange, Kafue and Lower Zambezi this has been the worse.…
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: Don’t go. If you can’t avoid it asked to be flown in
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 13 Jul 2023
Dear Mike G We are very disappointed that the lodge did not live up to your expectations. It’s our first negative review since opening the new lodge at the end of 2017. I understand that the fact that you were 3 adult men travelling together and sharing a family suite may have been a contributing factor, it would not normally be advisable, however as you had originally booked for 2 and then wanted to add a 3rd person after we were fully booked, we made an exception, but this was explained clearly in all correspondence. This is a very difficult review for us to respond to as it contains a number of what we believe to be inaccuracies, and in our business the guest is always right. Unfortunately we can’t ask Tripadvisor to remove it as they do not mediate on differing perspectives. We do not wish to cause you any discomfort, but it is important that readers have a balanced view. We will address these facts below: The hot water tank is so small that only 1 person can get a shower per day - let alone fill the bath. Forget any morning ablution as the water is ice cold by then. Hot water is provided by a solar geyser with a capacity of 150 litres for each room, it is at its hottest at the end of the day and if it is all used at night, there is no opportunity for it to heat up again before sunrise. It does however stay warm overnight if not used late in the day. Guests are informed of this on arrival and the optimal times for bathing and showering. We do recognise however that hot water morning and evening is important and are in the process of installing a gas geyser backup system in case of inclement weather, so far 2 of the 8 rooms have been connected. The canvas means you can hear everything in the small space The rooms are large, but we do agree that the canvas is not soundproof. It is however an environmentally friendly, tented. camp and double skinned for additional insulation. I understand that having 3 adult men in a family suite may have made the room feel smaller. On the plus side the canvas allows for nature sounds to be heard. The provision of hot water bottles did nothing for the cold of the night You stayed during a unusually cold snap, but we do feel that providing hot water bottles is a positive rather than a negative and there is a low wattage kettle provided in the room for topping up if need be as well as additional blankets. The mosquito nets in the twin bedroom could let in a large African Elephant. Standard mosquito netting is used in the children’s rooms, the netting holes are smaller than 1mm. It is recommended that to exclude mosquitos a maximum hole size of 1.2mm is used. The set-up is odd, no female staff in sight anywhere. It is correct that at present we only have male employees, we are not sure why this is odd though. It is not uncommon in many remote lodges in Africa. Bar staff didn’t know how to use a cork-screw The bar staff are experienced in using cork-screws as we stock a selection of wines with cork stoppers. It was unfortunate that one cork broke while the bottle was being opened, which did make it take a little longer to remove the remainder of the cork, however this was successfully achieved without leaving bits of cork in the wine. When asked for cafeteria coffee several teaspoons of granulated rubbish was dumped in the pot then the plunger set. We serve Arabica coffee which is locally grown in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe and exported internationally. As the lodge is eco-friendly it is fully reliant on solar power, and a bodum or French press is used for coffee rather than an automated (electric) machine. We also provide Nescafe Gold coffee and a caffeine free version for those who prefer instant coffee, plus a wide selection of teas both local and international. At no point was a menu provided - you basically had to eat what was provided. A menu is provided for breakfast and dinner. At dinner there is a choice of two starters, two main courses and either a sweet dessert or cheese and biscuit platter (or both). At lunch time a selection of salads is provided as well as a choice of two main courses. This is not unusual for an exclusive lodge with only 8 suites. The bar was non-existent, any drink you wanted was prepared behind closed doors and then presented. A beautiful wooden topped bar is provided with enough seating for 12 people, as well as additional individual ‘cocktail tables’, all overlooking the Zambezi River and the evening sunset. The service room behind the bar serves as a storage and washing up area and keeps the sound of the fridges and ice machines from intruding on the ambience at the bar. If guests would like their drinks prepared on the bar counter in front of them, this will be willingly done. We wanted a neat and clean bar area rather than a pub with bottles on display. The camps selection of spirits included Zimbabwean whisky, vodka, rum, some unknown gin. The gins that we stock which are included in the price of accommodation and include one Zimbabwean gin and one internationally renowned gin. We do also stock brandy and Amarula Cream, inclusive in the price. The wine was £2.52 (I checked on Vivino) vinegar. The house wines are not charged for and all score 3 + stars on Vivino. Cellar wines are charged for. Please note that as wines are not produced in Zimbabwe import duties do affect wine prices and the range available is not always constant. However, if you require specific wines, you are welcome to let us know in advance, we are happy to order in especially for you. If you wanted “premium” you had to pay - which included Jonny walker black label, but at no point were you told how much it cost. Like most lodges, premium brands are charged for. It is hard to keep a reasonable rate in a country where inflation and import duties are a big factor and include drinks that could run to thousands of dollars without charging high rates, which is not fair on those who do not drink alcohol or only a little of it. We do not mark-up premium drinks excessively and generally charge less than a normal restaurant would. I have checked your invoice, and you were charged according to the wine list. The lodge provided all of the inclusive drinks ordered and did not limit them in any way. There is a wine list at the bar with prices on it and which shows which drinks are inclusive and what the charge is for premium brands. Staff are wary of reminding a guest that they will be charged for specific drinks, as some may find it offensive, but it is recommended that guests ask for the wine list if they do not see it on the counter. It is in our best interests to disclose prices etc. as we don’t want guests to be surprised by their account at the end of their stay. When it came to the bill, the manager (Dudley) demanded cash (usd) - which we didn’t have, he said we should get it out of a cash machine in town. This bill was not settled in cash on departure, but via EFT as arranged by the manager, Dardley. For $1000 a night I don’t expect this type of service. Our rates are not $1000 per person per night. The maximum rate at present (excluding any specials or long stay discounts) is $620 per person sharing in the high season and $420 in the low season. There is a 30% single supplement, however this was not charged in your case as you shared a family room. Finally, it’s an hour drive into the park on some of the worst game drive roads ever. On the return journey it took 40mins and I was left with bruising and pain in my lower back. The average time allocated for a slow and comfortable drive from the lodge to the gate is 1 hour. As on your departure this was combined as a leisurely game drive, you departed 2 hours prior to your pick up time at the gate. The guide reported arriving at the gate 1 hour and 40 minutes after departing the lodge. While the lodge offers complimentary transfers to and from the gate, a quicker, and more adventurous access for those who wish to opt for it is by jet boat. Please note however that this service is outsourced and therefore billed for separately. Lodges in wilderness and pristine areas are by nature more difficult to access. While we have felt the need to set the record straight with regards to facts, we are also aware that every guest experiences things differently and we will certainly use the information you have provided to ensure that the lodge staff are more aware of informing guests of the different options available so as to prevent anyone else from being similarly disappointed. We are also happy to email a copy of the bar price list to anyone who is concerned as a result of this review. It is important for future clients to note, prior to booking, that Chundu Island is an exclusive island in a nature reserve where activities are largely nature based e.g. canoeing, game drives, island walks, fun fishing, sunset cruises etc. It is ideal for romantic getaways, family trips and nature lovers.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
we stayed on Chundu island on the Zambezi about 20kms upstream from Vic Falls! it is simply great!! the whole experience is superb! from the rooms/staff/ game viewing and sunset booze cruise! really worth doing!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 22 May 2023
Dear nhg59 Thank you very much for the fabulous review. We are delighted that you got to enjoy the experience of this very special island and appreciate you taking the time and effort to post a review. Kind regards Nikki Meyer Regional Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had an excellent stay at the Chundu Island Island safari camp. The accommodations, food and hospitality was superb. We had an amazing safari guide, Blessed, who made for exciting safari drives. The sunset cruise on the Island's pontoon boat was a great start to this experience. Highly recommended if you are staying near Victoria Falls.
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Date of stay: February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 03 Mar 2023
Dear W3280WIjohnr Thank you very much for the great review. We are so glad that you found our little gem on the Zambezi River and hope that you will have the opportunity to visit us again in the future. Your recommendation is really appreciated. Kind regards Nikki Meyer Reigonal Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Luxury but with a lot of nature. Location is the best from early morning sunrise to the fabulous sunsets. We managed to see game but it wasn't plentiful due to recent rains making less dependency on river water. But did see a leopard really close on our last day. BLESSED had real hawk eyes and spotted everything out there! He is extremely knowledgeable especially spotting the birds. Staff at Chundu were very nice and nothing was too much trouble. We had 4 wonderful nights there. Highly recommend!
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: Go for a family room for best location!
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 30 Jan 2023
Dear Maragetspain Thank you so much for the lovely review. It is so heartwarming to know that our team is doing a great job and that you had a wonderful stay. Hope you have the opportunity to visit again one day! Kind regards Nikki Meyer Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have recently visited Chundu Island Lodge In the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls. This is the most beautiful and idyllic destination - and I could not imagine a place for peaceful in the African bush. The Lodge is so comfortable, beautifully designed fitting into the natural environment. Staff amazing, special mention to Dardley, Blessed, Cletos and Richard. The pontoon ride to and from the island is delightful and sunsets are quite out of this world. Cannot recommend this place enough if a restful, completely soul restoring holiday is what you have in mind. Thank you everyone for making my time there so incredibly special. I will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: December 2022Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Nikki Meyer, Other at Chundu Island
Responded 06 Dec 2022
Dear SarahwK Thank you! Your review is fabulous and captures the essence of Chundu Island. We are so glad that you felt the magic, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Kind regards Nikki Meyer
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
US$994 - US$1,113 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
ZimbabweMatabeleland North ProvinceVictoria Falls
NUMBER OF ROOMS
8
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Claim Your ListingCHUNDU ISLAND - Lodge Reviews & Price Comparison (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe) - Tripadvisor
Frequently Asked Questions about Chundu Island
What are some of the property amenities at Chundu Island?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Chundu Island?
Top room amenities include a minibar, a refrigerator, and a desk.
What food & drink options are available at Chundu Island?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, a lounge, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Chundu Island?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Chundu Island have airport transportation?
Yes, Chundu Island offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.