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Gavin Parsons: African photographic tour

From tents to luxury lodges, the accommodation on safari is always comfortable with a back-to-nature feel.

Lodges usually feature thatched roofs and spacious rooms with mosquito netting (whether you need it or not, it adds drama and a touch of 'Out of Africa' atmosphere to your room!). All rooms have en-suite facilities.

We use both private and government-owned lodges, all of which are to a high standard of cleanliness and repair. Don't be surprised if you are sharing your room with other creatures: many insects and reptiles make their homes in the thatch. The accommodation sometimes adds to the adventure!

Here is a small selection...

Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

Olifants: Guests have an unforgettable window of Africa. This government-owned camp is situated a top a hill which towers several hundred feet over the Olifants river; views from the lookout platforms allow you to see the river below. Accommodation is in rondavels (thatched huts) with en-suite facilities. There is a dining room, bar and souvenir shop.

Satara: A busy government-owned camp, and not without reason; it is situated in an excellent game viewing area with the bush relatively open and the animals plentiful and diverse. The camp itself has a rustic charm with the bulk of the accommodation set out in a series of circles.The camp is well wooded and the bird-life is prolific. At night the clink of fruit bats is fused with the chirping of cicadas and crickets.

Chitwa Chitwa: Luxury, privacy and innate warmth are all integral pleasures of the remarkable experience that is Chitwa Chitwa, creating affectionate memories that will linger with you long after you leave the Lodges' gracious company. There are two lodges, Game Lodge: standing sentry over one of the reserve's largest lakes is Game Lodge, Chitwa Chitwa's most exclusive camp. Indulging in the clever design which brings the outside in, the magnificent bar and lounge area melt into the surrounding trees, rendering you invisible to the game gathering on the open plain in the cool of the evening. Safari Lodge: nestling beneath a blanket of Knobthorn trees rests Safari Lodge. In unwavering African tradition, the cottages at Safari Lodge are thatched, creating a bond with their surroundings. Its charm lies in that it has remained small and intimate, accommodating a maximum of ten guests in five chalets. Relaxed and in harmony with its surroundings, Safari Lodge is enjoyed for its rich diversity of animal and bird life which can be easily observed from each cottage. Children of all ages are welcome at Game Lodge, however children under the age of 12 are not permitted at Safari Lodge.

Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa

All owned by the same company (in partnership with the state and local communities), there are several lodges in this reserve suiting different guests, be it honeymooners and couples, families with children and adult groups, there is a lodge for everyone. Madikwe Hills is an exclusive lodge set amongst boulders and offers the utmost in luxury and hospitality. Tuningi Safari Lodge is a 5-star lodge, themed with 'Colonial African Chic' and is one of the few 5-star lodges to welcome children. Buffalo Ridge offers its guests expansive views over the reserve and allows them to experience the concept of complete integration with the bushveld. Thakadu River Camp is set within the riverine canopy along the banks of the Marico River and consists of tented suites, each with its own viewing deck overlooking the river. Motswiri Lodge is an exclusive lodge, only taking 10 guests so is perfect for group bookings. The Bush House is unlike the other lodges in that it is an old homestead, with lots of history and many stories to tell. Like Motswiri it only takes 10 guests so is particularly suitable for groups.

Tuli Block, Botswana

Tuli Safari Lodge: Situated on the banks of the Limpopo River, Tuli Safari Lodge offers a safari experience with a difference. All meals are taken outdoors, either on site or in the wild – you will never forget a bush dinner followed by the sounds of the Tuli Choir as they sing traditional African songs. An overnight stay in the hide overlooking a waterhole is an eerie experience not to be missed. There is a swimming pool to cool off in the hotter months, in between game drives.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

Sussi & Chuma Lodge: Named after David Livingston’s faithful friends who carried his body from the interior to the British embassy at Dar-es-Salaam, is a beautifully situated tree-house style lodge. Hidden in the riverine forest and built among the branches of a huge ebony tree, you can view the mighty Zambezi River from your veranda. The en-suite rooms definitely have a touch of 'Out of Africa' in their design.

Telephone:   01428 644501

E-mail:  info@safaridiver.co.uk