Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa

As soon as you arrive at Cresta Mowana, you’re in no doubt where the lodge gets its name from; a giant baobab tree (mowana) stands proud, right in front of the entrance to the reception.

On the other side of the reception is the large lawn, which extends right down to the Chobe River, where the hippos honk merrily, day and night.

Despite the size of the lodge with its 100+ rooms of different sizes, all rooms have their own balcony – overlooking the river.

The spacious, modernly appointed rooms all have mosquito nets around the beds, air conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities.

Breakfast is enjoyed overlooking the river – and after the day’s safari, you can enjoy the last rays of the day from the bar, which also has a view of the river. It’s quite enchanting to sit in the waning light and hear the animals grunting in the dark river.

If you could do with cooling down, you can hop in the pool, and if your back’s aching after all those hours in the safari car, a visit to the gym or the spa might be just what you need.

It goes without saying that Wi-Fi is available at the hotel.