Reviews of Nambwa Tented Lodge
Wildlife sightings and reviews
23 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Nambwa Tented Lodge and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
33% success
18% success
0% success
27% success
100% success
93% success
93% success
71% success
69% success
67% success
62% success
58% success
55% success
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9% success
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0% success
"A stunning tented camp, but so-so service"
the fire - there was smoke in the air when we arrived, and it developed as the afternoon progressed. We went on the sunset river cruise, but that was cut short to return because of fears the fire would engulf the camp. As we returned there was an intense bush fire raging just across the river channel from the camp, and evacuation was being considered. I think it was only the efforts of the staff working to divert the firs that saved the camp.
there was no proper camp manager at that time, and although the young F&B manager and head guide were doing their best the organisation and service did not match the quality of the facilities.
We'd definitely go back, but we'd probably take a fire extinguisher!" See all these reviews: 9n in Namibia; 7n in Zimbabwe; 3n in Botswana
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
The camp itself is located right on the river on wooden platforms so the views all round are good. The tents are huge and well equipped and whilst I accept it may be an old fashioned view I still like my bath in the bathroom not in the bedroom !
There is a large living area in the tents but we prefer to be outside and although there is a balcony all round the tent there are no sunbeds anywhere and no pool.
The evening meals were disappointing as the food although OK was cold by the time it got to you, nothing worse than cold soup. The service very hit and miss, we ordered two glasses of wine the first night and they arrived after we had finished our main course. We also asked what was on the menu that night and the waiter didn't know and there was no written menu.
The best thing were the activities with the excellent Beaven, an early morning river cruise and an evening game drive. Thankfully they were good as they were extremely expensive, more than double the price we paid elsewhere.
For me this is somewhere that is trading in style over substance and needs to provide more than a pretty tent." See all these reviews: 11n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana; 3n in Zimbabwe
It seems that just before these travellers visited, Nambwa’s General Manager had quit the bush and move town for medical treatment. Clearly service levels had dropped; Tinolla offered apologies for this on behalf of the whole team.
To remedy this, Tinolla herself has stepped in to run the lodge whilst new managers are appointed and trained. A new assistant manager (a former ‘executive chef’) started at the end of October.
With this focus, we’re assured that high standards of food and service should be restored at Nambwa.
There’s also good news: Nambwa is now installing a swimming pool, which should be operational within 2016. They’re also considering sun loungers/day beds for the decking around the rooms.
So these travellers did visit Nambwa during a period when standards were unacceptably poor. However, we believe that subsequent changes should quickly return standards to the high levels that we’d expect.
"Systems Manager & Senior Africa Specialist | Southern Africa"
"Nambwa Tented Lodge - A Great Experience"
We were picked up at the park entrance by Kennit ,our guide for our stay. Unless you are an experienced 4x4 driver I would recommend making use of this service as the road is rough with deep sand. A large number of elephants were encountered on our road to the lodge, a theme which was to be repeated throughout our stay.
The communal areas are comfortable, pleasing on the eye and offer views over the plain below. Our tent, built high off the ground was simply stunning. Very spacious, very well appointed and relaxing to be in with the bonus of a lounge area. A wrap around veranda also gave views across the plains. Whilst there is no pool at the moment (plans for two are in the offing) there was nowhere to simply stretch out and take in the views and soak up the sun.
Juan was a very welcoming and attentive host. He spent a lot of time engaging with the guests, ensuring everyone was happy with all aspects of their stay. Kennit, our guide, took us on river drives, game drives and bush walks. His knowledge, bird spotting abilities, patience and humour all added to our overall experience. We have brought home treasured memories from these activities. All staff were engaged in their work, friendly and helpful.
We had a great time here and would highly recommend it. Perhaps two nights would be the ideal if you have a busy itinerary." See all these reviews: 12n in Namibia; 7n in Botswana
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