Chobe Safari Lodge

We have stayed there many times before, so knew what to expect with regards to location, meals etc. The game drives and boat trip were both lovely. The rooms at the bush lodge are very well appointed, I loved the bathroom set up. The staff were all very helpful and friendly.

I had been communicating with the safari lodge since we made the booking in August as we had requested a specific rondavel. At no time in any of our messages did the booking person advise us that the safari lodge was actually under renovation, so no reception, restaurant or swimming pool were available. Daniel, the manager was a star and took the issue in hand. He showed us the room we had requested, which was now a long walk from all the bush lodge facilities, and then he showed us a room in the bush lodge which we accepted instead. It was actually quite quiet while we were there, but the bush lodge pool is quite small, so not sure how they will cope when busy.

It’s a classic in Kasane right on the river in a large compound with lots of wildlife. Rooms are clean and very spacious.

The grounds need maintenance, rubbish in the hedges, abandoned buildings, high cost considering breakfast not included . We booked due to the amazing large deck over looking the river but we’re not informed they are doing massive building renovations and this was closed. It was the reason we booked in the first place . Pool looks rather uninviting too.

The Chobe area is amazing but I don’t feel the Bush Lodge is worth such a very high price. We booked the Safari Lodge which I assume is closed for refurb currently but ended up in the Bush Lodge. I’m not aware we were ever informed of this. The hotel is keen on trying to upsell to even more expensive accommodation, perhaps at the expense of customer care and attention. For approaching £400 per night, I think it is fair to have a room which falls below 30 Celsius at night despite air con and room fan. Cleaning staff and tour guides were excellent and friendly, other staff less so. Breakfast good, dinner options pretty average. Stayed in far better safari accommodation in South Africa and Zimbabwe for half the price where we were made to feel far more welcome.

There are bugs in the bed. I told the cleaner. The water couldn’t go through in the shower. After a shower, my feet stood in the water.

The above. Bug in the bed and shower drain clog.

Location and facilities very good.

Staff service was inconsistent.

Exceptional quality and experience all round. Staff were amazing.