Great Egret Safari: Day-by-day

With guides whose focus is firmly on the big predators, Kwara is in a perfect area of the Okavango. In this private reserve, wildlife – both predators and prey – can be prolific. To maximise the chances of big-cat sightings, every 4WD excursion is led by a guide and tracker, and the guides are in constant contact by radio. It's all about the wildlife here – the camp even has a "digital detox" policy to ensure that your experience won't be marred by pesky emails or other digital disturbances during your stay.

Rather more serene, both mokoros and a double-decker boat are on hand for effortless exploration of the lily-strewn waterways, perhaps combined with a guided walk.

Equally, with seasonal floodplains and a permanent lagoon in front of the island-based camp, and mature trees affording superb bird cover, it’s tempting to let the wildlife come to you.

In the huge “tented rooms”, beds, sofas, verandas, even baths are carefully sited to make the most of the views.

If you fancy company, a short stroll brings you to a thatched, open-sided structure complete with lounge, dining table, library, bar and curio shop. Colonial-style furniture combines effortlessly with simple stretched-canvas walls to give a contemporary-chic feel – designed for adults only.

"an unforgettable stay!"

C&AfromMunich

Arrived 30 Jan 2024, 4 nights

There are proper pools – complete with bars and sunloungers – at each end of camp, and a firepit down by the lagoon. And arguably of greatest importance, all share that captivating outlook. See our full report on Kwara Camp

At the eastern end of Namibia's Caprivi Strip, four houseboats known as the Zambezi Queen collection cruise the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers. The Zambezi Queen is the largest, with 14 cabins, and the most luxurious. Formerly known as the Ichobezi houseboats, and the Pride of the Zambezi houseboat, three smaller boats, each with just four cabins, make up the Chobe Princesses. A few relaxing nights on one of these houseboats is a fantastic way to experience the birds, animals and scenery of this lush corner where Namibia and Botswana meet.

"The houseboat was beautiful and the food excellent."

Mrs L.fromGordon

Arrived 17 Aug 2022, 5 nights

Two or three nights on one of the Chobe Princess houseboats offers an intimate and relaxing way to view wildlife, enjoy spectacular birding, try out a bit of fishing, and take a different mode of transport to the more typical game drive safaris. It makes a great addition to a Victoria Falls visit, or a wonderful beginning or end to a Botswana, Zimbabwe or Zambia safari. See our full report on Chobe Princesses

A reinvention of a classic Hwange safari camp, Somalisa Expeditions opened at the start of 2017. The camp sits among a grove of acacia trees in a private, 150km² concession in the heart of Hwange National Park, and offers a friendly if relatively simple safari experience.

"Staff was great... a more “glamorous” camp setting"

Mr & Mrs B.fromFlorida

Arrived 17 Sep 2022, 3 nights

Somalisa Expeditions provides the experience of a traditional safari camp in the middle of a wildlife-rich area, balancing its simple rustic design with more stylish and comfortable elements. It's a great choice for travellers looking for a classic African safari camp that can deliver excellent guiding and superb wildlife viewing, both on activities and from the camp itself. See our full report on Somalisa Expeditions

Not just the most famous name in town, this grand old lady of yesteryear is still up there with the best. Let’s start with the setting. Looking proudly down on the bridge that spans the Zambezi River gorge, the Victoria Falls Hotel remains the closest hotel in town to the waterfall. Just a 15-minute stroll from the extensive lawns and you’re gazing at one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Then there’s the sheer glamour of the place. Oozing Edwardian style, it is now fitted out in contemporary comfort to marry the charm of the old world with the efficiency of the new.

Not least among its attractions is the imposing Livingstone Room. While jackets and ties are no longer de rigueur, dinner here remains a gloriously formal occasion with a top-notch menu, along with dancing accompanied by a live pianist.

Of course, you could work up an appetite on the tennis court or in the pool, but a relaxing spa treatment seems rather more appropriate before high tea, or perhaps cocktails on the terrace.

"Lovely old majestic hotel full of history and character, in a fabulous location."

Ms J.fromNorthallerton

Arrived 5 Jul 2023, 2 nights

Combine this with committed, service-orientated staff, and it’s no wonder that the hotel remains the place to stay in Victoria Falls. See our full report on Victoria Falls Hotel