Although the overall feeling of Selinda Camp is simple and rustic, there is a high level of luxury here. Combining simplicity with elegance, each of the seven Meru-style tents is spacious, airy and immaculately clean, with a large bath and shower on a wooden deck, separated from the bedroom by sliding doors. Rich red elements like Persian carpets and a throw on the bed accent the predominantly khaki colour scheme, and mosquito netting forms a canopy over a bed of heavy, dark wood. The “Out of Africa” theme is gently sustained here: Period sherry decanters rest on an antique desk with many drawers; an old-fashioned packing trunk houses the tea and coffee provisions; and evocative photographs of game by Beverley Joubert decorate the tent, as well as the communal areas of the camp.

Tents are raised on stilts and offer panoramic views of the water and floodplain. From the king-sized beds you can watch the antics of the birds, monkeys and squirrels, as the tree canopy is at eye level. Since the camp is unfenced, you have to be escorted to your tent after dark.

During game drives two packs of wild dogs are regularly seen in the area, as well as two prides of lions, several leopards, a large breeding herd of elephants, and even the rare roan antelope, all from the vantage point of a seven-seat Land Cruiser. Careful off-road driving is permitted for special sightings, so you are privileged to see animals at close quarters. This game-rich private concession — also awash in birds — is a truly pristine wilderness area.

Morning tea and evening sunset drinks are accompanied by delicious fare, like chickpea and fresh parsley dip with homemade crisps, which finely complement your Tanqueray gin and tonic (with a slice of lime, served in a pewter goblet). All the food is delicious, imaginative and healthy. Choose your own wine from ample stocks in the air-conditioned wine cellar and sip it with local grilled bream at a table underneath the vivid stars and planets.

Hospitality is unrivalled here, with staff being friendly, considerate and interesting conversationalists.