False Zambezi Sun Where: Livingstone WHY A great value, family- friendly resort with Victoria Falls literally at the back gate. Informal and colourful, its location alone makes Zambezi Sun perfect for a flying visit. For a touch of colonial chic, its neighbouring, sister property, The Royal Livingstone, offers lush lawns, shady verandas and polished style. CONTACT www. suninter-national. com Chongwe River Camp WHERE Lower Zambezi WHY Overlooking the confluence of the Zambezi and Chongwe Rivers, the stylish Albida Suites opened at Chongwe River Camp in 2007. Surrounded by curvy adobe walls, the two chic octagonal tents, vast open- air bathrooms and a distinctly Bedouin, canvas-covered lounge make for a wonderfully decadent hideaway. Attentive staff, plump sofas and a private plunge pool enjoyed by thirsty elephants and visitors alike – all right on the border of Lower Zambezi National Park. CONTACT www. chongwe. com 83 msafiri Tongabezi WHERE Livingstone WHY A mixture of secure cottages and open- sided houses ( often amusingly named), Tongabezi is Livingstone’s original romantic retreat. From putting waterfalls in the swimming pool to empowering smart Zambian managers, Ben Parker and the late Will Ruck- Keene, Tongabezi’s founders, pioneered the creation of off- beat, high- quality Zambezi lodges. Both the team and lodge continue to delight with excellent accommodation, a stunning river location and warm Zambian hospitality. Who could resist checking into the new Nut House? CONTACT www. tongabezi. com 4 5 6 Chris Mcintyre / Expert Africa Tongabezi WILLIAM GRAY

False msafiri 84 ACCOMMODATION Siankaba WHERE Livingstone WHY Equidistant between Victoria Falls and game-dense Chobe National Park, Islands of Siankaba has a magical location in the middle of the Zambezi River. Nestling on two densely forested islands, linked by rope suspension bridges, it’s a peaceful post- safari retreat. Its seven, teak and canvas chalets are raised on stilts, both protecting the vegetation and taking full advantage of the idyllic riverine setting. Each room boasts a private balcony cantilevered over the rushing river, and for those keen on aquatic adventure, there are mokoro trips, fishing expeditions and sedate sundown boat cruises. CONTACT www. siankaba. net Kapamba Camp WHERE South Luangwa National Park WHY In an untouched corner of South Luangwa, Kapamba enjoys a marvellous position on a shallow stretch of the Kapamba River. The four, wholly original en suite chalets are spacious and stylish, with moulded concrete interiors and baths the size of plunge pools! Entirely open- fronted in design with clever wrought-iron shutters to afford the nervous a peaceful sleep, the rooms are thoughtfully designed. CONTACT www. bushcampcompany. com Taj Pamodzi WHERE Lusaka WHY With good curries in the restaurant, a pool and a well- equipped fitness centre, this efficient 200- bed business hotel in downtown Lusaka is a reliable overnight option. CONTACT www. tajhotels. com Lechwe Lodge WHERE Lusaka environs WHY An hour’s drive from Lusaka, on the banks of the Kafue River, Lechwe Lodge is a working game farm with four delightful thatched rondavals and a tranquil atmosphere. The wholesome farm- fresh food, friendly team and varied walking are a great introduction to Zambia and perfect for relaxation before the dawn wake- up calls of the safari camps. CONTACT www. lechwelodge. com 7 9 10 8 Islands of Siankaba Chris Mcintyre / Expert Africa Maruska Adye / Expert AfricaChris Mcintyre / Expert Africa