ÌÇÐÄvlog´«Ã½

This tiny lodge sits on Sindabezi Island in the middle of the Zambezi River. The island is about 600 metres long by 100 metres wide. There are lots of white fronted bee eaters flitting from the trees in the river and views of the Zambezi National Park on the opposite side of the river.

On one side of the island there is a simple boma with comfy cream sofas, a bar and dining area overlooking the vegetated sandbanks with the river meandering past. There is also a raised lounge area between two tree trunks offering sensational views over the river. There is always a roaring campfire at night, which is very welcome on a chilly night. From here, sandy paths lead through the riverine vegetation to the five rooms. The rooms are stylish and open-fronted with twin or double beds (with mosquito nets) under a thatch roof. Each room has a small sink at the back and has a deck or terrace area overlooking the river. The en suite bathrooms have a separate WC house and an outdoor hot shower — great when under the stars at night.

Sindabezi is a lovely, tranquil little island to stay on, if rather wild. When the dry season gets going, elephant can sometimes swim across the river in the evening or at night to feed on the island. When this happens guests are escorted to and from their rooms. Guests can do lots of activities from Sindabezi including boat trips, game drives, trips to Livingstone and Maramba Market and the Victoria Falls.

OUR RATING: First Class