At Muchenje River Lodge, our accommodation is designed to offer comfort without distraction — simple, welcoming spaces where the river breeze drifts through and nature becomes part of your stay. Each room opens onto the tranquillity of the Zambezi, inviting you to slow down and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river.

Our pride and joy is our Shamwari Houseboat which is a floating lodge, sleeping a maximum of 8 people. An incredible experience which allows guests to travel from Katima Mulilo 55 kilometres downstream to the confluence of the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers.

The Houseboat is based on the Upper Zambezi River near Mwandi (on the Namibian side). This part of the Zambezi is well known for its fantastic tiger fishing opportunities, as well as Nembwe and other predatory bream species.

The Houseboat sleeps eight (8) people comfortably with two people in each of the four rooms, however can sleep 8 max. Each room is adorned with beautifully large sliding windows which open out onto the river.  

There is a large dining area which makes up the main area of the Houseboat. Off the dining area is a lounge, braai deck and jacuzzi. We also have a laundry service available, including an unlimited supply of ice for our guests.

Bookings are confirmed on a sole-use basis, with a minimum requirement of four (4) guests, and a maximum of eight (8) guests. Included in your booking are meals, which are prepared by our chef in a deliciously wholesome style to fill your appetite after a long day's fishing or relaxing on the deck.

There is  credit card facility on the Houseboat, therefore we kindly ask for payments for any extras to be made in cash or eft (either ZAR or $NAM). We also include free Wi-Fi on the Houseboat, as well as good cell phone reception via roaming.

Includes:

- 4 x rooms accommodating 2 x people in each room
- Minumim 4 guests & maximum 8 guests
- Each room has an en suite bathroom
- Full board (i.e. all meals included)
- Electricity
- Wifi
- Unlimited ice
- Cellphone reception
- Jacuzzi

Sustainable comfort, naturally

Muchenje River Lodge is steadily moving toward full self‑sufficiency. Most of our accommodation and facilities are powered by an extensive network of solar panels and inverters, ensuring a clean, quiet, and environmentally friendly stay.

For added reliability, we maintain a backup connection to the national power grid and a generator, but our goal remains clear:

To operate as lightly as possible on this beautiful land.

Guests often comment on the peaceful atmosphere created by solar power — fewer generators, less noise, and more of the natural sounds that make the Zambezi so special.

Spaces to relax

More than a room — a place to unwind

During your stay, you’re welcome to enjoy:

• Our riverfront lounge and dining area
• Shaded outdoor seating with panoramic views
• The swimming pool overlooking the river
• Quiet corners for reading, birdwatching, or simply being still

Whether you’re returning from a fishing trip, a community visit, or a sunset cruise, Muchenje offers the perfect place to rest and reconnect.

Perfect for Every Traveller
• Couples seeking peace and privacy
• Families wanting space and comfort
• Friends travelling together
• Anglers looking for a relaxed base
• Campers wanting affordability with lodge access
• Guests combining a lodge stay with the Shamwari Houseboat

Pair your lodge stay with a few nights aboard the Shamwari Houseboat — a solar‑supported, private river experience ideal for fishing, cruising, and quiet moments on the Zambezi.

Your River Retreat Awaits

Wake to the sound of birdsong.

Rest under wide African skies.

Sleep peacefully, surrounded by nature.

Welcome to comfort, simplicity, and the gentle rhythm of the Zambezi.