Jenman African Safaris’ team of safari specialists regularly travel to assess new venues and experiences, or return to old favourites to ensure that everything is still up to our high standards. Due to popular demand, we will now be sharing these reviews with you bimonthly, to enable you to best benefit from our insider knowledge and allow you to communicate the finer details to your clients with absolute confidence.

ABSOLUTE LUXURY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CHOBE RIVER

Chobe Water Villas | Chobe National Park | Namibia

- reviewed by Erica -

Chobe Water Villas is an idyllic option for an “African Waters Edge” getaway in every sense of the word. Located on the banks of the Chobe River, this stunning lodge is only accessible by boat so even your transfers to and from the lodge are opportunities for game-viewing. After a brief visit to the Namibian immigration office to get passports stamped for entry into Namibia (only issued on arrival) we made our way to the lodge and were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff and the beat of African drums. All other subsequent passport stamps when leaving or coming back to the lodge are seamlessly facilitated by Chobe Water Villas. The villas themselves all look out onto the Chobe River and are similar in size, spacious and have all the luxury amenities needed including Nespresso machines and a selection of snacks to enjoy. After returning from the afternoon boat cruise, I loved sitting on the villa’s deck, taking the time to watch the sun go down over the river. The food we had at the lodge was outstanding and the presentation was always beautiful!

EXEMPLARY EXCELLENCE JUST OUTSIDE OF VIC FALLS 

Elephant Camp | Victoria Falls | Zimbabwe

- reviewed by Erica -

As a Zimbabwean, I have been to Vic Falls a countless number of times but my first visit to Elephant Camp honestly blew my mind with everything that it had to offer! On check-in, our private guide detailed all the activities available in the area which the lodge is happy to arrange whether they are included in your package or additional - essentially your own concierge service. However, Elephant Camp does include their own amazing activities into their nightly rate, such as the Canopy Zipline Tour and Sundowners at Batoka Gorge. The Batoka Gorge lookout point is on their concession so it’s an exclusive hidden gem that only guests of the camp can experience, while for those daring enough to zipline through the treetops this is a great way to see the gorge where the mighty Zambezi River flows after it cascades down the Falls. The rooms at Elephant Camp all look out onto the concession where you can spot game wandering past from your private plunge pool, and in the distance one can see the spray from the impressive Victoria Falls. The camp is a short distance out of town, not within walking distance, but the guides and staff are more than happy to arrange transfers to/from town for activities

PHENOMENAL VIEWS AND THE BEST BREAKFAST

Chundu Island Lodge | Victoria Falls National Park | Zimbabwe

- reviewed by Katja -

I just love that the Chundu Island Lodge is located on its own island in the Zambezi River! The secluded tented chalets are beautifully appointed, spacious with minimalistic decor. There is an indoor bath and an outdoor shower – an absolute must in the bush! The views of the river from the room’s spacious and private deck as well as the bathroom and bed are simply phenomenal. Recently refurbished, the design and construction are professionally done and well thought-out.

Your morning tea/ coffee is brought to you at a pre-arranged time allowing you to listen to the awakening African bush from the warmth and comfort of your bed. The hot water bottles are a welcome surprise during the cold winter months (providing extra warmth if you don’t have the luxury of sharing the bedt with someone). All the food was outstanding - they even serve chicken livers for breakfast. Candy, the lodge’s manager, made me feel very welcomed, was extremely flexible when I decided to rather take in the lodge’s surroundings than participate in the various activities they offer such as boating experiences, fishing, game drives or canoeing. All in all a wonderful getaway – combine this with a few nights in Hwange National Park or add it at the end of a busy itinerary exploring Zimbabwe or Botswana.

CHEF'S TABLE ON THE ZAMBEZI RIVER

Zambezi House | Victoria Falls | Zimbabwe

- reviewed by Nicole -

Walking into Zambezi House is a treat for your senses. Every time I go to the restaurant, it seems to get better and more beautiful. This new restaurant is exactly what was missing in Vic Falls town. Set along the banks of the Zambezi River, the absolutely magnificent restaurant has somehow been created from a few containers. It is gorgeously decorated, with fantastic staff and the most incredible host, Carl. For a recent agent-gathering, Carl set up a “chef's table” for us out on the lawn, under lanterns hanging from the trees, next to an open barbecue where our delicious meals were prepared. Carl was a phenomenal host and we experienced outstanding hospitality and were treated to a surprise performance of his stand-up comedy. Zambezi House serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a brilliant selection of wines and delectable desserts. A great spot for all times of the day, however best enjoyed during the daytime when you can gaze over the Zambezi River. The ambience and the location are perfect, it is truly one of the gems of Vic Falls. A great reflection of a beautiful country and characterful people.