In contrast to the sand dunes of the Namib Desert, visitors to the Zambezi region in the north of the country are greeted with lush green and wild river landscapes.

Located in the 150 square metre Kasika conservancy in the middle of the protected Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Area, the Chobe Water Villas – part of the Ohlthaver & List Group – has opened to guests.

The exclusive lodge lies directly on the banks of the Chobe River, looking out over the Chobe National Park and Kazakili Island, another region rich in water and wildlife.

Sixteen villas are grouped around the main building and blend into the surrounding wildlife.

Here, a maximum of 32 guests can enjoy the highest levels of comfort in absolute seclusion.

Easily accessible by just a 15-minute boat ride from Kasane at the edge of the park, the lodge has its own water treatment and solar system, making it almost completely self-sufficient.

The public areas include lounges, a bar and a pool, which appears to flow out into the river landscape.

The restaurant in the main building also serves its dishes – a fusion of African and European cuisine – out in the open.

Each villa has a luxurious bed and bathroom, featuring a freestanding bath and a terrace with panoramic views.

“After many years of hard work, we’re delighted to be able to welcome the first guests to Chobe Water Villas,” said Sven Thieme, executive chairman, O&L Group.

The region around the Chobe River preserves unique wildlife and plant life: giraffes, leopards and hyenas, zebras and elephants, buffalos and numerous other wild animals are native to this area, as well as a rich and diverse bird life.

In addition to the Chobe Water Villas, the renowned Namibian group O&L is also responsible for the Mokuti Etosha Lodge, the Midgard Country Estate and the Strand Hotel Swakopmund, which opened in the autumn of 2015.