Chobe Water Villas lie along the banks of their eponymous river on the far eastern edge of Namibia’s Caprivi Strip (now called the Zambezi Region), close to where the waterway meets the Zambezi River. Here, where four countries – Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe – meet, game thrives. The lodge's 16 thatched chalets, set beneath trees on the riverbank, all overlook magical Sedudu Island, which is a haven for wildlife, especially elephant, buffalo and red lechwe. Part of the adventure lies in reaching the lodge – it’s only accessible by boat from the Botswana border town of Kasane.




The central guest area wraps around a stunning infinity pool, with a lounge and cocktail bar under thatch. Meals are served in the elegant indoor restaurant overlooking the lawns, or around an open fire in the traditional African boma. Beneath the trees, several secluded firepits overlook the river – perfect places to sit back and enjoy the views, G&T in hand. There's a curio shop and a library, and wi-fi is available (although it's a bit slow) throughout the lodge.
Sixteen thatched chalets perch along the river’s edge on stilted platforms. Constructed from local timber, each has fantastic views across the water, with an outdoor lounge that literally hangs above the water. All are spacious, with an open-plan bedroom/lounge, floor-to-ceiling glass doors that fold back to make the most of the views, a full en-suite bathroom. The cherry on the top? Each room has a telescope so you miss none of the action.
Game drives in Chobe National Park provide plenty of exciting game viewing, with ever-present hippo and crocodile along the riverbanks, impressive herds of elephant, buffalo, prides of lion, and several antelope species including the rare sitatunga. If you're a keen birder, take a boat cruise – you'll spot a huge variety along the way. Fishermen in search of the legendary tigerfish can try their luck, and cultural visits to the nearby traditional villages can be arranged.
The ‘finger’ that touches Vic Falls is a luscious region with several unexplored but worthy parks.