Camp Linyanti

A large, shaded wooden deck sits on the bank of a wide lagoon in the Linyanti River, with sensational views across the floodplain towards neighbouring Namibiaʼs Caprivi Strip. Mealtimes are relaxed, with hearty dishes served at simple dining table on the deck, and a few plush couches are arranged along its back. The set-up is plain, but the environment and the sweeping views are definitely not. In the evenings, gather around the water's-edge fire pit for a companionable chat.

Five rounded canvas tents, including one honeymoon tent, are built on slightly raised wooden decks along the edge of the lagoon. Double or twin beds draped with mosquito nets fill most of the space, with the rest taken up with an en-suite bathroom furnished with basin, toilet and outdoor shower (honeymooners also have a tub). Air-conditioning is most welcome, since it can get extremely hot in September/October, and extra blankets are provided for warmth in June/July.

Open April to October, Camp Linyanti is a great place to see a panoply of wildlife. Morning and late-afternoon game drives reveal huge herds of elephant, buffalo and zebra, rare sable antelope, birds and predators galore, including wild dogs and seldom-seen brown hyenas. Explore the lagoon on the Swamp Cruiser, a motorboat with both four-stroke and quiet electric motors to glide the waters in silence. It's a good vantage point to watch the sun set, surrounded by grunting hippos.