Africa is home to some of the most spectacular rivers in the world. One of them, the Zambezi River, has brought immense fame to the African continent, and for good reason: it boasts some heavy credentials, namely as Africa’s fourth-longest river (stretching 2,200 miles), and as home to the world-renowned Victoria Falls.
David Rogers/www.photosandafrica.com
David Rogers and wife Jenni Saunders recently spent a few days enjoying the Zambezi during their luxurious stay at Sindabezi Island in Zambia. Sindabezi is Tongabezi’s sister lodge and is uniquely located on its own private island on the mighty river, just a short way upstream from Vic Falls.
Jenni recalls her distinct Sindabezi memories in her blog. Many of them revolve around the Zambezi River and the inhabitants that rule the wilderness area.
David Rogers/www.photosandafrica.com
“Lying in bed with little more than a mosquito net between me and the fast-flowing Zambezi River, I tried to think of a collective noun for the number of different birds singing in the dawn. The noise was deafening, and then in came the base of hippos and the shriek of baboons: ‘Cacophony’ came to mind. But that usually refers to a horrible noise – this was sheer heaven. This island is a little capsule of African paradise. Arriving by boat from the parent camp of Tongabezi, we were immediately made to feel like family by the wonderful team: Brian, Brenda, Capt Ronald and the warm Nasson. It is true what they say – that every experience is ultimately about the people you meet and are touched by. The team couldn’t do enough to make us happy, and soon we were firm friends.
David Rogers/photosandafrica.com
“Fishing was high on our son’s agenda, and as the river was hurtling down towards the Victoria Falls – Tiger fishing wasn’t at its best. Ronald was a gem – taking the boys to catch squeakers in the shallows. The 4 tents are beautiful, simple and open to the elements. Arriving back from your evening activity you may discover a foam bath with champagne on ice. Meals can be enjoyed in numerous spots on the island – the raised tree deck, the floating pontoon or just under the stars around the open fire. It’s everything the bush should be – romantic, authentic, intimate and lasting.
David Rogers/www.photosandafrica.com
“I have a deep love affair with The Zambezi River. The massive Jackalberrys and Natal Mahohony trees along the fringe, the pods of hippos you meet unexpectedly around each bend, the show of birdlife that flits between the trees – offset by heavy white clouds building for that evening rain. Rain that you can smell already. The magic of the Zambezi is here at Sindabezi and there is nothing between you and the wilderness experience. Sindabezi is perfect for the romantics, the nature lovers and certainly for kids.”
The Zambezi River remains one of the least explored rivers in the world and Sindabezi Island provides an authentic and raw escape to revel in its secrecy and delight.
