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Tucked away amid indigenous forest on two side-by-side islands in the Zambezi River, Islands of Siankaba has one of the most unique lodge locations in the region. The lodge is located about 48 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls, and is accessed by road from the Zambian side of the river and a five-minute boat transfer from the shore. Expect five-star exclusivity with a touch of romantic, Swiss Family Robinson style, complete with swing bridges and raised boardwalks linking the islands. Remain moored here, deeply relaxed, or venture into Livingstone for the best views of Victoria Falls and some high-adrenalin activities.
From $640 person/night
Enjoying a few hours (days, perhaps?) of R&R in the serene surroundings.
All guests get a complimentary five-minute neck or foot massage– just the ticket if you’re coming straight off a 4x4 in the bush!
The lodge is about 50 kilometres from Livingstone, which means no buzzing helicopters to disturb your siesta, but a longer drive to see the waterfall.
From the dock, an elevated boardwalk leads to the lodge's main area. Walk through the open-sided lounge, dining room and bar to the shady veranda, with its cushioned bench seats and campfire pit, and gaze at the view. This is where you'll gather for drinks, meals and chats, or to check your sightings in the small but well-curated library. Feel like a dip? Follow the path through the forest to the pool, complete with sunloungers, and the small, well-appointed spa.
Seven chalets are accessed via a network of boardwalks and swing bridges. Each room is raised on a deck two metres above the river, with wooden floors and canvas walls. Interiors are welcoming, with netted double or twin beds facing the river. (Electric blankets are supplied to ward off the chill!) Colonial-style en-suite bathrooms have double basins, a free-standing bathtub, shower and toilet. But it's the large secluded terrace overlooking the river that is the crowning glory of each room.
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Cruising the river is a must. Take morning and sunset boat rides to experience the full spectrum of life the Zambezi has to offer. Incredible birdlife, water-dwelling hippo and crocs, elephant and antelope on the banks – there's certainly plenty to see. Want to get out on foot? Follow the islands' network of trails on your own or with a guide. Try catch-and-release angling (in season), or head to Livingstone to see Vic Falls and enjoy the gorge's dizzying activities.