"Hot and Happening Spots"

Week 7: Seeing Africa on Foot and by Canoe

Zambezi River  traveltamed.com

By Sarah Munoz, Recommend Magazine

   "The seduction of an African escape unfurls in Zambia's southern province and reveals itself in the northern bank of the Zambezi River, where Baines' River Camp- part of the Mantis Collection- is located. This is a colonial-style lodge offering a variety of up-close-and-personal options beyond the traditional game drive, although they also do those, and do them well- there will be plenty of big-game spotting in both the Lower Zambezi National Park and the Chiawa Partnership Park, considered one of Africa's last true wilderness areas, with animals still roaming freely."

   "For starters, there's a canoe safari- navigating the river's waters silently, without the noise of a motor, and gliding up to an antelope, birds' nests, buffalo and other creatures. Braver souls can try a walking safari, exploring the area on foot with a scout from the Zambia Wildlife Authority. With this option, the focus is on smaller animals, tracks and plant life, with travelers discovering everything from colorful insects to medicinal herbs."

   "Yet another alternative? An angling expedition- catch and release only- on the Zambezi, famous for the African tiger fish and other species such as bream, Cornish Jack and vundu. Baines' River Camp offers fly-fishing clinics that include four nights at the lodge and an overnight in a tented camp on the eastern boundary of the Lower Zambezi so as to cover more ground. Baines' also offers photo safaris during the year for photographers of all levels, as well as elephant workshops to learn more about the gentle animals."

   "The camp itself offers just eight decked-out suites, each named after a different African explorer and each with views of Africa's fourth longest river. Rates are inclusive of meals, laundry service and standard safari activities."

Quoted from Recommend magazine July 2012 vol.27 number 10 pages 35-36