As the rains fall softly over the dark highland forests of southern Angola, the precious waters erode away at the landscape to form streams. Meandering down the slopes joining into powerful cascades over boulders, it finds its way down the escarpment on a journey southwards, beyond the borders of its origins.
Arriving at the vast floodplains of the Kwando River in Namibia and in the heart of KAZA, it spreads out, flowing through natural landscapes and claiming back its rightful purpose as a life-giving source. It is here where you will find the unobtrusive Nambwa Tented Lodge, nestled high amongst majestic Jackalberry, Sausage and Knobthorn trees.
On a private island in the middle of the Kwando River and adjacent to the Horseshoe Bend lies Kazile Island Lodge, a unique lodge experience only reachable by boat.
We are in the heart of the Kavango Zambezi Trans Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA) and part of the large Peace Park initiative.
Guided Game Drive
As the midday sun retreats and the afternoon shadows lengthen we depart on a journey, an adventure to discover the unknown behind every bend. Observing every branch for a rare endemic bird, to be rewarded instead by an elusive leopard. The silence broken by the deep low rumble vibrating through the bush, which could only belong to a large herd of elephants. Out of nowhere they appear with a focused determination towards the life-giving water up ahead. Knuckles white, as I grip the seat of the game viewer, relishing the moment as a highlight of my journey through Africa.
Boat Cruise
The early morning suns rays reflect off the waters edge, the soothing sound of the water as it is gently broken by the bow of the boat cutting through the waters surface. The varied landscape of papyrus islands, reed floodplains and moving past petrified dunes, leaves me in awe of the vast open space. Around every corner a new bird, antelope or a carnivore quenching its thirst. A sudden fountain of water followed by a deep grunt reveals the large pod of hippos curiously gazing upon our arrival. The boat comes to a halt.
Guided Bush Walk
“Look”, says our guide Beaven, pointing past the big camel thorn tree in front of us at the herd of buffalo. As our guide describing the behavior we get an insight into the lives of these extraordinary beasts. He shifts our attention swiftly to the tracks of the hyena that passed the night before followed by her cub. I am in awe of the knowledge Beaven has parted. He teaches us the medicinal value of the knobthorn tree, the techniques to use for making rope and the ‘toothbrush’ bush.
Bush Breakfast and Sundowner
Going out for a bush breakfast and/or a sundowner in the evening is a must when you visit Africa. We take you to the most romantic and memorable spots. There is nothing quite like sitting in the silence of a remote area, with the splendid array of bird song, while watching the sun rise or set. It’ll make you fall in love with the Zambezi region all over again. You can plan around two hours, start to finish, for one of these delectable and relaxing experiences. We are happy to arrange breakfasts to suit any of your special dietary needs as well.
Cultural Tour
Walking through the gates of the local homestead reveals the complexity of the inner courtyard. It is here that your traditional guide shares the age-old stories brought down through the generations from father to son. Experience the day-to-day life of the archaic cultures from the Mbukushu and the Lozi traditions that has remained unchanged since the beginning of their time.
Horseshoe Sundowners
The famous Horseshoe Lagoon, with its vast herds of elephants is the most sought after spot for a sundowner and snack whilst barefoot in the sand.
Soak up the breathtaking sunsets together with hippos and large herds of elephants silhouetted over the water. An exclusive night drive, while viewing the nocturnal wildlife, takes you back home where a bubble bath awaits you.
Exclusive Yoga Experiences
Stretch the limbs and soothe the soul… Join us as we explore how mindful living and self-exploration can merge with the grandeur of the natural world. Practice daily yoga in the pristine wilderness of the Zambezi beside hippo pools and elephant crossings. Be nurtured with meals carefully prepared and tailored to fortify your health, set with natural ingredients by our trained chefs.
Dining under the African Sky
Dining is deemed to be the highlight of a bespoke travel experience. At Nambwa we take immense pleasure turning every meal into a memorable experience. Our locally trained Chefs illustrate their artistic flair of local and traditional influences. They delicately prepare ingredients sourced from local subsistence farmers and add spice to these culinary delights to evoke a spark of the art and elegance of fine dining.
Weddings
When you choose to celebrate your wedding at African Monarch Lodges in the heart of the Zambezi, you and your guests will experience the ultimate full-service retreat centered completely around your big day. The Zambezi is truly a unique backdrop for creating life’s most cherished memories. Don’t settle for a typical wedding, enjoy a Zambezi celebration.
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