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On a tiny island surrounded by channels and floodplains, Little Vumbura is a real hideaway.

Access is only by boat, where you weave through channels of glassy water littered with water lilies and flanked by towering reeds and papyrus. A wooden walkway over the water leads to the delightful little camp. Shaded by wild date palms and papyrus and overhung with long creepers and winding lianas, you feel as if you are tucked away in a tropical jungle. The camp is hidden from view until you are right in front of it, a haven from the outside world.

Paths weave their way through the tall trees to six spacious tents and one family unit. The rooms have been refurbished and are stylishly furnished with large beds, en suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower and a shady veranda with views of the floodplains.

The central boma is very comfortable with low tables and big chairs. There's a swimming pool and covered area overlooking the marsh and also a lovely wooden deck raised up above the waters of the channels. At night the whole camp comes alive with the clinking of reed frogs and grunting of hippos, and this outer deck is a wonderful place to sit around the fire and gaze up at the stars.

Activities at Little Vumbura include game drives on surrounding dry islands with exceptional game concentrations. Boat trips and mokoro excursions are also possible in an area which is wonderful for birding. Finally, there are walks and particularly good night drives, where your chances of seeing bush babies, honey badgers and even leopard are excellent.

OUR RATING: Deluxe