Travel reviews by Mr and Mrs L from USA

"The Palm River is a lovely, modern hotel on the banks of the Zambezi River. It was perfect for a two night stay after our flight from the U.S. first stopping in Johannesburg for one night. They have a delicious Boma barbecue set up by the river with fire pits and soft drumming- during our first dinner we were informed that the hippos had arrived! Two hippos had come up from the river to graze on the grass- such an exciting thing to see! We toured the spectacular Victoria Falls- so many rainbows!

Be prepared to get drenched- bring flip flops and a rain poncho. The second day we had an elephant encounter that was fantastic to be so close to these gentle giants - very informative about their rescue and potential release. You are able to walk with them and feed them.

Another highlight is the sunset cruise that leaves from the hotel’s dock. A beautiful ride and introduction to seeing elephants, hippos , bird life in and along the river. Gorgeous blood orange sunsets to enjoy with drinks and snacks.

The food - friendly hospitality and pretty decor was a wonderful two day stay before going on Safari in Botswana."

"The setting of Muchenje Safari Lodge is quite stunning perched high above the Chobe floodplain.

Our guide Rambo was excellent. We saw so many animals on our drives down by the river- took an incredible boat trip and got to see elephants up close swimming - playing and eating the grasses in the water while being docked right next to them having our lunch.

At day break Rambo tracked a male lion and lioness walking along a sandy path - a breathtaking sight in that light to be able to watch and trail them. There was an abundance of wildlife and Rambo loved sharing his knowledge about each species. An unforgettable time."

"Duke’s Camp exceeded our expectations in so many ways.

The camp itself is beautifully designed and curated. Miles of paisley fabric line all the tents - curio cabinets are filled with skulls and artifacts - four poster beds have canopies trimmed with red velvet and there is a hot water bottle to warm your bed.

We were so fortunate to have Bacos as our guide. His enthusiasm, knowledge and patience tracking gave us three rare sightings of wild dogs - one being a successful hunt as a pack. We also saw hyena pups, lionesses hunting at night and an extremely rare dusk sighting of an aardvark.

Tetenda the manager was so welcoming. The food is excellent - afternoon tea is a special treat served before afternoon rides. All the staff are wonderful making you feel at home in this oasis. We met so many fun and interesting people at lunch and dinner and around the fire.

The mokoro ride was a great experience and the boat ride is not to be missed with West as your guide..Another fun and knowledgeable guide. The grasses in early June are taller so you have to work a little more to spot them but the animals feel more wild here. There is abundant bird life- elephants- hippos- and we loved having breakfast with giraffes watching us when stopping on morning drives.

We would happily return!"