Built with local materials, this eco-conscious lodge sits at elevation above the Bua River, a well-worn elephant crossing. Its thatched, near-church-high lodge is crowned by a mezzanine walkway leading to an aerial viewpoint – the perfect place to balance a G&T and binoculars. Huge chalets include plunge baths, marble basins, rain showers, wooden decks and wrought-iron doors with widescreen views.
Come late afternoon, elephants come to the river, while other regular visitors include baboons, and you may even hear the occasional lion. Activities include fly-fishing and hook-and-bait fishing (April to October), walking safaris, village visits, and kayaking upstream with a coolbox of sundowner Greens (scant reward after being scared witless by crocs watching you like periscopes!). Accommodation rates include drinks, guided activities, park fees, laundry and transfers within the reserve. Check the website for special offers.
The lodge is dedicated to helping the local population and environment, with a community-development foundation that creates employment, curbs poaching and undertakes projects such as repairing storm-damaged school buildings.
In late 2016, a swimming pool, a family cottage and self-catering cottages were under construction.