Nehimba Safari Lodge, Hwange National Park

Location

Found deep inside a 278-square-kilometre private concession in the remote northern region of Hwange National Park, Nehimba Safari Lodge offers a superb array of wildlife experiences. It’s sited on the borders of the region’s characteristic mopane woodlands, while still maintaining direct access to the Kalahari sandveld associated with the park’s south and west. It’s all reached by four-hour drive from Victoria Falls, most of which is through the Hwange National Park.

Accommodation

Nehimba comprises just seven thatched tents, each raised on teak decks to afford superb views over the magnificent Nehimba pan, from which the lodge takes its name. It’s a favourite wildlife spot, especially for the region’s elephants. Each tent is delightfully secluded, even featuring its own outdoor shower, while inside they come with delightful en suites, complete with roll-top baths. It’s all realised in a delightfully traditional African aesthetic, with the thatched roofs looking down on carved ornaments. There’s also a pair of Family Suites and, for some added luxury, the Honeymoon Suite.

Dining

Like its sister properties in the region, all meals and drinks are included in the nightly rate. Start the day with a cup of coffee on your private balcony and end it with a sundowner next to the waterhole; all wines, beers, local spirits and soft drinks are complimentary. Dining is equally well though out, with dinners often taken by the camp fire. Menus range from Continental classics to local delicacies and, if you get the chance to sample the chocolate cake, don’t hesitate.

Facilities

Life at the lodge revolves around its beautifully thatched main building, host to a bar, lounge and free WiFi. And, both the swimming pool and watering hole offer excellent views – just be sure not to confuse the two. But, as with all safari lodges, the activities are the highlight. At Nehimba, game viewing is tailor-made to your preferences, whether it’s tracking a herd of elephant by foot, searching for nocturnal species on a night safari or simply heading out on a game drive. Lastly, aside from seeing everything from leopards and hyenas to lions and elephants, there’s a fascinating human history to the area, too. Uncover 19th-century ruins along with ancient water sources first used by the San Bushmen.