Tongabezi

The first river lodge on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls, this small bush-camp style retreat is renowned for its peaceful setting and sweeping views over the Zambezi River. Situated just 12 miles upriver from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi lodge, is hidden amongst a grove of ebony and acacia trees. Ideal for a few days pre or post safari, this romantic lodge has a grass tennis court, croquet lawn and a rock-hewn swimming pool. All the activities of the Falls are on the doorstep, as well as boat trips and canoe safaris on the river, picnics on Livingstone Island (picture 4) and great bird watching.

Tongabezi comprises five ensuite Cottages nestled along the river bank – and 4 distinctly unique Houses, including the acclaimed and romantic Honeymoon House (picture 3). Each House boasts a large open-air sunken bath and a private balcony overlooking the river. To complement this, the Sindabezi ‘bush camp’ is a tiny island paradise in the middle of the Zambezi only accessible by boat. Four comfortable open-fronted thatched chalets with private decks have spectacular views over the river taking in either sunrise or sunset; does heaven get any closer than waking to the dawn over one of the world's most famous rivers?