A little further upstream from Tongabezi and the River Club, about 45km from Livingstone, the very peaceful Islands of Siankaba is built on two densely forested islands, linked by suspension bridges. To get there from the main road you travel 7km down a dirt track through open bush, and then jump in a boat for five minutes to get across to the islands.
On one island you will find the tastefully decorated main lodge which consists of a bar, fire pit, lounge, library, and dining area, and has lovely views over the Zambezi. There is a small swimming pool to the rear of this area, set in the cool shade of the riverine forest.
On the other island there are seven stylish chalets dotted the around the island's edge - which have views out over their large verandas and the river. The only sounds you will hear come from the birds, the insects and the Zambezi rapids in the distance.
Siankaba is close enough to the Falls for a visit (about 50 minutes away by vehicle and a visit is included in the price), although many of the activities here focus on the islands and the river - for example the lodge offers guided birding and tree walks, and there is a 1.5km nature trail which runs round one of the islands. The walks through local villages, led by a village elder, are also particularly good. The lodge also offers a range of beauty treatments (at additional cost) including massages, manicures and facials, and they are building a spa for next year.
In conclusion we think that this is a very peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few nights; the surroundings are beautiful, the rooms luxurious and the food and staff are great - the perfect way to start or end a safari to Botswana or Zambia.
Central facilities: On arrival before boarding your boat for the main island, you pass through the lodge's reception and well-stocked curio shop. Then alighting from the boat on the island, you ascend a decked pathway to find the beautifully decorated main lodge. This comprises the main bar and dining area, with adjacent lounge which is furnished with comfortable sofas and armchairs. There is a small library and also board games available.
In front of the main lodge is a fire pit surrounded by director's chairs - the perfect place for enjoying a few gin and tonics in the evening and there are lovely views over the Zambezi from this area. To the rear of the main lodge is a small swimming pool with several sun-loungers, and from here you will find the start of a marked walking trail around the island.
Directions: 35 minutes by vehicle from Kazungula, or 50 minutes by minibus to Livingstone airport plus 5 minutes by boat.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Food quality: This lodge has quite rightly acquired a great reputation for its cuisine. When we last visited we found the food to be excellent.
On the first night for example, for dinner we were served a starter of tasty leek and potato soup (the other option was a chicken, avocado and balsamic salad which also looked great) followed by a main course of fresh Zambezi bream with coriander and ginger, and fresh greens. (The alternative was a hearty sirloin beef stew with sautéed potatoes.)
To really top things off pudding was a delicious peach and currant crumble with homemade ice-cream.
Breakfast is a buffet affair with fresh fruit, cereal, yoghurts, cold meats and cheese all on offer. You can also have a full cooked breakfast if you're particularly hungry! Tea and coffee and fruit juices are served.
Dining style: Inidividual Tables
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Room service: No (although they do bring round tea and coffee in the morning)
Cost of meal e.g. lunch: Included
Drinks included: All soft and alcoholic drinks are included, save for premium brands and champagne.
Special interests
Honeymoons: This is a romantic and relaxing spot, ideal for a bit or rest and recuperation either before or after a safari in Botswana or Zambia. Private dinners can be arranged, and there is a masseuse. A spa-room is also planned for 2008.
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for Honeymoons
Children
Attitude towards children: Children aged 12 years and over are welcome.
Age restrictions: No
Activities: No
Equipment: No
Generally recommended for children: Recommended for children who are 12 years and over.
Central communications
Power supply: Generator
Communications: There is usually mobile reception on the island, although it can be a bit unreliable.
TV & radio: No
Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: The nearest doctor is in Livingstone. Medivac can be utilized in emergencies, and Livingstone is only seven minutes away by helicopter.
Dangerous animals: Moderate Risk
Security measures: There are 5 night watchmen on the islands.
Fire safety: There are fire extinguishers in all the rooms.
Extras
Disabled access: Not Possible
Laundry facilities: Full Laundry Service - Included
Money: There are safes in the rooms.
Accepted payment: Visa, mastercard and all major currencies are accepted in the curio shop.
Quite outstanding in all respects!
A very impressive and beautifully appointed series of small lodges ideally located on the banks of the Zambezi. Most of the staff beamed with pleasure almost continuously and the more senior managers...
Islands of Siankaba review
A lovely camp in an idyllic location on the river. Only downside is the distance from Livingstone as if you arrive in the afternoon and want to go to Victoria Falls the next day it is 3 quite long an...
Islands of Siankaba review
Personal attention, just the right amount of encouragement to socialise with other guests, very relaxing,safe, a great place all round.
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