Baines' River Camp

The open-plan lodge includes two lounges and an indoor and outdoor dining area, all centred around a Spanish-style courtyard. The Selous Bar, with a large fireplace and many antelope horns, flows out into the swimming pool on the river's bank. There's a pretty decent library and a smart boardroom that are incorporated without feeling too corporate. There's also a small "trading post" (gift shop) and a few private work stations. Various spa treatments are available, but take place in your suite.

Eight classic suites and a two-bedroom family unit are each named after a different African explorer, accommodating a maximum of twenty guests. With wall-to-wall carpets and full length curtains, they feel more like a small, charming and elegant colonial homes. The family suite has a full-on lounge with an open-plan kitchen and dining room. All the suites have impressive views over the Zambezi from their covered patios with comfortable furniture. Spacious ensuite bathrooms have huge showers and dressing area. Two of the suites also have an outdoor shower. Other amenities include A/C and a mini-bar.

The full spectrum of activities is available at Baines'. River safaris can take the form of a canoe excursion, a fishing trip or a sunset cruise. Game drives (day and night) into the national park usually yield some good sightings of predators and prey alike, including big herds of elephants and buffalo, especially in winter; bird watching is most rewarding in the summer months. In-house activities include informative elephant workshops lead by the guides and photographic workshops instructed by award winning photographers Roger and Pat de la Harpe.