Divava Okavango Resort & Spa

The main lodge and restaurant are built on a raised deck on the Okavango riverbank, amongst lush woodland. The well-stocked bar backs onto a lounge with several comfy - if slightly outdated - armchairs and sofas (think grandma's reading chair), and the restaurant is spacious with an adjoining cellar that contains a decent selection of international wines. A partially shaded deck offers additional dining options with a good view over the river. There's a fireplace with a small seating area, and a series of thatched buildings houses the spa, sauna and steam room - although it's hard to imagine anyone would want to be any hotter in this warm climate! Maybe more useful, or even better after a good sweat, is the shaded, garden pool. Wi-Fi is available at reception, and there's also a small curio shop.

There are 20 air-conditioned chalets perched high up on the riverbank, enveloped by a mature canopy. They are spacious, with big glass doors and windows, and a private deck to make the most of the superb views over the river. Large, comfortable twin beds are draped with mosquito nets, and there's a small desk, mini bar and a tea/coffee station. The substantial en-suite bathrooms have a tub, twin basins and indoor and outdoor showers, perfect for hot afternoons and evenings.

There's plenty to keep you busy at Divava! Start with the river: boating trips provide opportunities to spot hippos, crocs and a myriad of birdlife; fishing can be rewarding, with top angling species like tiger fish, tilapia and sizable catfish; and mokoros provide a peaceful and traditional way of getting out on the water. There are two national parks nearby - Bwabwata (known best for its buffalo herds) and Mahango, home to four of the Big Five. Don't miss the chance to see Popa Falls (really, more of a big rapid) just a mile upstream, or visit the local community to see how they live in this challenging environment.