• Boat safaris long the Chobe River
• Air-conditioned accommodation
• Sundowners in the bush
• Watch elephant and giraffe by the river from the bar
• Visit the local village

Chobe Savanna Lodge is on the banks of the Chobe River in Namibia, overlooking Chobe’s Puku Flats and opposite Chobe Game Lodge its sister camp in Botswana. It specialises in boat safaris along the river, viewing herds of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, puku and sable antelope on the floodplains, and hippo in the water.

You might spot the occasional lion and leopard, too. Game drives, night drives, walking safaris, bird watching and guided canoeing trips add variety. A visit to the local village offers an insight into the tribal culture and lifestyle. Afternoon wildlife activities often include a stop in one of the guide’s favourite spots for sundowner drinks. The main lodge building is a large thatched structure with rooms arranged over 2 floors, flanked by tall trees.

It looks out over the river and to Chobe National Park beyond. The ground floor lounge is perfect in the middle of the day, with a cooling breeze blowing off the river as you sit back on a sofa to leaf through a book or chat to other guests. There is additional seating on the covered deck. On the upper level there’s a bar and dining area with a long table for communal meals. A little way from the main lodge there’s a swimming pool and a number of loungers and sunshades. Guest rooms are arranged in a crescent on either side of the central area.

They make great use of local materials, built of brick, thatch and wood. The sliding glass door opens onto the shaded veranda, which looks out over the river. The bedroom is filled with light coming through the doors and picture windows, and air condition and a ceiling fan help keep the air temperature cool. You’ll find a welcome stocked minibar and supply of cookies which you can enjoy indoors or on the deck. The en-suite bathroom features top quality fixtures and fittings, and you’ll be given your own bathrobe for the duration of your stay.