Chobe Water Villas opens
Namibian hospitality company, O&L Leisure, has opened Chobe Water Villas, a riverside retreat in the Caprivi Strip on Namibia’s Northern boundary, only a few kilometres from the unique place where four countries meet: Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.
A destination for wildlife photographers and safari lovers, Chobe Water Villas are situated on the northern bank of the Chobe River, which forms the border between Namibia and the Chobe National Park in Botswana.
Sixteen stilted suites line a broad stretch of the Chobe River, with views over Kasikili Island and the Chobe National Park beyond. The vegetation is lush and supports a dense population of elephants, lion, buffalo, giraffe and various antelopes, making this a unique corner of Namibia which, in many ways, feels as much a part of wildlife-rich Botswana or Zambia.
Accessible only by boat, the thatched water villas are shaded by acacia trees, with interiors by South African firm Design Union that feature sustainable, contemporary lines and incorporate custom-made furniture, indigenous textiles, cloud-soft linens and an Afro-chic collection of lighting fixtures and artworks. Floor to ceiling glass doors in each suite fold open and lead out to a large front terrace with 180 degree river views. The river below is teeming with life and guests can watch out for a rich selection of bird life as well as water-loving species such as hippo, crocodile, sable, waterbuck, reedbuck and buffalo – which are largely absent from the rest of Namibia.
Facilities at the main lodge include a restaurant and bar and a library lounge – all leading out onto a centered garden area with infinity pool and views of the Chobe River. Interiors take cues from Namibia’s landscapes, rich biodiversity and diverse cultures, and subtle touches throughout the property nod to unique Namibian cultural symbolism. A giant mobile in the restaurant made of hundreds of strands of small Maranti timber discs represents an African Rain Storm, while a skeletal structure hung from the ceiling refers to Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. A light installation of a giant weaverbird’s nest can be seen above the bar counter.
Because of its elevated location, wildlife viewing can be enjoyed straight from the villas and lodge looking down onto the river. Daily activities include morning game drives in the Chobe National Park, cruises on the Chobe River along the banks of the National Park, Cultural & Sunset cruises on both the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, and day excursions to Victoria Falls, situated only 70km away.
