Travel reviews by Mrs P & Mr K from Hamilton

"This was our first experience of Zambia and Africa so were excited, and I think not quite sure what to expect. However, from the moment we were met at the Livingstone airport and throughout the stay at the Avani (and indeed throughout the whole trip) our expectations were exceeded. The reception was warm and welcoming, and throughout our stay we couldn't fault the team at Avani - they are really professional, and also very friendly. The best thing for us was the location to the Falls - and the fact that there is no additional entry fee. We visited the Falls at least three times, and I'd recommend early in the morning as a beautiful time to view. The track up and down to the Boiling Pot is a good way to get a bit of pre-breakfast exercise as well!

Breakfast was included in the price at Avani, and was an extensive buffet with a good variety of food

We also made use of the bar and restaurant at the Royal Livingstone next door - including a memorable and special dinner for two under the 'monkey tree', which was not nearly as pricy as expected (in fact on par price-wise with the Avani's dinner menu).

The staff at Avani arranged a taxi to take us into Livingstone town, where we went to the museum and had a look around town. There were plenty of tours on offer, but we were happy to just chill out and get over the jet lag.

We highly rated the Avani - it is not a 5 star hotel, but then it is not charging 5 star prices either. Maruska and information on the Expert Africa website describe it well and we were really happy with the recommendation."

"We fell under the spell of Kafunta River Lodge, and South Luangwa National Park and would love to return!

This is an incredible place with a stunning view over the river plain that takes your breath away.

We were there early in the season (April) so there was only one other couple at the lodge - we felt well and truly spoilt by the attentive and friendly staff.

The safari guiding (with Jarbis) was excellent and we had some amazing experiences despite it still being at the tail end of the rainy season - this was in no small part due to the knowledgeable guiding.

The food is great, lovingly made, and served on the deck overlooking the river."

"There is a genuine warmth and sense of fun amongst the staff the Chongwe River Camp and that made our stay there very special and difficult to fault.

There is lovely attention to detail - the food, the rooms, the dining area - a feeling of being 'in the bush' yet (for us who are used to self camping at home) in a very luxurious manner!

We appreciated having different options each day so while we were there we did a walking safari, visited the local village (via boat), went canoeing, as well as the usual safari drives.

We were there quite early in the season so some of the tracks in the National Park were pretty muddy but that just added to the adventure!"