Victoria Falls River Lodge

The enormous thatch, open-plan main area is an extraordinary place to congregate and swap adventure stories with other guests, or to simply relax on the sprawling sofas and lounge chairs. The dining room, come bar, come lounge and outdoor deck all flow together - with a crystal-blue infinity pool at its edge. The main area enjoys panoramic views of the river and park, and is no stranger to moseying elephant and grazing antelope. The Tao Spa on site is a short walk from the main area, with lovely private open-air and indoor facilities. Be sure to check out the tree hide, which overlooks a waterhole, perfect for birding and game viewing or simply being.

There are eight luxury tents and five family tents - all extremely spacious with views of the river. They are well-spaced for privacy, each with a its own porch and plunge pool, furnished with sun loungers. Tents combine thatch and canvas and are tastefully decorated with white linens and soft touches of blues and greens. Beds are larger than king-sized, with the option of being separated into twins. Bathrooms are huge, incorporating a double basin, shower and stand-alone bathtub, and boasting gorgeous views to boot. With all the mod-cons, including air-conditioning and a bar fridge (plus a two-way radio), you're not likely to want for anything. Family tents are furnished much the same with the addition of a room that can comfortably sleep three little ones (younger than 17 years) in a 3/4 bed and a bunk bed.

The menu of activities here is overwhelming. Let the lodge help plan your adventure - tailor-made, of course - to suit your palate. Do a good mix of thrilling and chilling - start with a game drive or game walk on the reserve and take it up a notch with a zip line, gorge swing, bungee jump, heli flip, or canoe safari. For a little challenge, get out on the river for an afternoon of sport fishing; for a bigger one: spend the day rafting the Zambezi below the falls (only twelve and over, please ), surging through the grade three, four and five rapids.