Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 0211-840682;
www.royalzambezilodge.com
;
per person all-inclusive US$650;
year-round; )
The epitome of luxury bush mixed with a colonial-era viba, Royal is
only a short drive to the eponymously named airstrip and Chongwe Gate. Despite its un-
derstated opulence - think brass fixtures, claw-footed tubs and private day beds on decks
overlooking the river - it's unpretentious and friendly.
In addition, there's a full-service spa (the only one on the Zambezi) and a bar built
around the trunk of a sausage tree next to a small pool, essentially in the river; rest your
elbows on the edge and you might see a hippo glide by only a few feet away. Kids and
families are welcome and there are discounts in the 'green' season when rains tend to be
heavy and quick; although wildlife drives might be impossible, canoe trips are still on and
there are few visitors around.
Kanyemba Lodge $$$
( 0977 755720;
www.kanyemba.com
;
full board around US$330; )
This lodge has
phenomenal river views and proximity to big wildlife, as well as authentic, homemade
Italian food and a cappuccino machine that's ready to roll 24 hours a day - Riccardo, the
owner, is a charming and knowledgeable Italian- Zambian. The spacious, round chalets
are stylishly furnished with carved wooden pieces from their own workshop and stone
floored bathrooms with rainwater showers; shrubbery between neighbouring chalets
means privacy is valued.
In an attic-like space above the open-air dining area is a charming little library and
lounge, and the pool with riverfront deck is ideal for those long 'between activities' after-
noons. Take a guided canoe safari, try your luck at tiger fishing or down G&Ts on a sun-
downer cruise. If you don't have your own wheels, take a bus to Chirundu and someone
will collect you there.
If you're after more seclusion, Kanyemba has its own rustic bush camp (shower heads
are stuck onto the branches and trees protrude into the bathrooms) in a secluded corner of
the island just across the water from the lodge - you're sure to see loads of animals, espe-
cially elephants and hippos, outside your door.
CHALET
Kasaka River Lodge $$$
( 0211-256202;
www.kasakariverlodge.com
; safari tent all-inclusive per person
ZMW2090)
The sister property to Chongwe River Camp, this place is perched high above
the Zambezi only 4km from the park entrance. On one side are eight fairly luxurious ten-
ted chalets with charming outdoor bathrooms set on a manicured lawn with a small pool
where a particularly frisky hippo is known to visit. On the other 'bush' side is the honey-
moon suite with Ottoman-style bed and open-air bath and a family- (children are welcome
TENTED CAMP
