Anabezi Lodge

The name gives the place away. Anabezi is a combination of the Ana trees, or winterthorns, that surround the camp, and the Zambezi River on which it sits. Both are very much present in daily life here. The Ana trees drop yellow pods year-round that draw elephants into and through the camp with total indifference to the guests watching from their decks, and the Zambezi is visible from almost every corner of the property, framed by the escarpment on the far bank and the broad Mushika River floodplain below. Twelve tented suites sit on elevated wooden decks connected by a raised boardwalk, which keeps wildlife moving freely underneath and gives guests the run of camp without an escort. Each tent is genuinely spacious, around a thousand square feet, furnished in a style that manages to be both comfortable and unpretentious, with a king bed, indoor and outdoor bathrooms, lounge area and its own private plunge pool with river views. There are two main areas, each with its own pool and bar, the Zambezi Deck serving as the social heart of camp. The food is excellent and consistently praised by returning guests, with high tea a particular fixture of the afternoon routine. The camp is family-owned and run, and that warmth comes through in the way the whole operation feels. Anabezi welcomes children from age two, with the Mushika Deck available for exclusive family use on request. Will recommends a minimum of three nights. The Lower Zambezi rewards time, and Anabezi's range of activities means you are unlikely to find yourself short of things to do with it.