(8 chalets) contact via Sanctuary Lodges.
For many years, Chobe Chilwero was a delightful small bush lodge run by Linyanti Explorations, who still run the Selinda concession in the Kwando-Linyanti area. However, in the late 1990s they sold it to A&K, the multinational luxury travel company. To avoid the label of 'an A&K lodge', it's since been re-branded as one of three Sanctuary Lodges in Southern Africa – which remain controlled by the shareholders of A&K.

In the last few years, Chobe Chilwero has been rebuilt to exclusive and luxurious standards. All 15 of its large timber-and-thatch bungalows have air conditioning, imported terracotta floor tiles, sunken handmade baths, indoor and outdoor showers, and private terraces that overlook landscaped gardens. The South African architect, Jonathan Ridler, is responsible for this and has created the atmosphere of an ethnological museum with tasteful décor including many beautiful African artifacts. It includes a comfortable lounge area, a small library with an excellent selection of books and magazines, a beautifully landscaped pool (with showers, toilets and sunbeds) and a business centre for those who can't live without email. Much effort goes into the food here, with treats like bread-sticks and truffles made at the lodge. The service is impeccable – but friendly, and the wine cellar extensive.

Chobe Chilwero looks out over the Chobe's floodplains from behind a relatively discreet electric fence. Game drives are conducted by knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides although the lodge's location effectively limits these to the eastern part of Chobe's riverfront. They use high-quality 4WDs taking a maximum of six guests. Evening sunset cruises are also offered in small single-deckers boats – a pleasant change from some of the larger boats on the river.

Chobe Chilwero is a luxurious lodge in an accessible spot on the edge of Chobe, which offers great comfort and excellent game viewing. It makes an ideal excursion for 2–3 days if you're staying in Victoria Falls or Livingstone but is not isolated enough to offer a real wilderness experience.

Open: all year.