For me? A Namibian honeymoon. (continued)

Day four.

After a few sips on a G & T, that we both needed and earned at this point in time, me, hubby and all our luggage were headed to board the river-boat at Zambezi Mubala Camp. And so, as the boat followed the river-stream, gliding towar ds our final destination, I soon realised, that truly no words could ever be enough to describe this majestic northern River, that is Zambezi - all hidden in the goosebump evoking fish eagle call, river breeze rustling through the reeds and the throbbing water miming the thunder of rainy season. 

Upon our reach of the green paradise of Zambezi Mubala Lodge, we swore to do no more than nothing at all. Lounging amid the pool and bar, we created our newly-wed routine; swim, drink a cocktail, sit on the deck, swim, drink a cocktail, sit on the deck…And at nightfall, after the sun dipped into a embrace of tangerine skie, we lounged at the fire-pit, nestled in bonfire-banter and the smell of good food (and I mean REALLY good food) on the way. 

After greeting the friendly faces of the Zambezi Mubala Lodge staff-members and taking a boat ride back to the “mainland”, our needle pointed to Katima again. this time, the car-ride was much easier as we spent almost 2 days just lounging. No connoisseur, but again, for honeymooners, a more-than-two night stay is highly recommended. 

Day six.

Reaching, my all time favourite, Namushasha River Lodge, I was ready to get out my Novel and bask in the shade next to the pool and enjoy a lunch speciality, as we waited yet again, on another boat. This time, via pods of Hippo and crocs, Lechwes and ALOT of different bird species, we were taken to the secluded (and prime honeymooners spot) Namushasha River Villa. Hidden away in her own branch of the Kwando river and an immersive  360’ view of the surrounding wetlands, momentarily felt like entering the closet of Narnia, into what was our own little world. 

In the small-talk with grunting hippos close by, we started our accidental 3 hour slow-cooked steak by the porch-side fire-pit…yes a fire-pit on a boat. And at night, when we tucked into bed, under the starlit skie, we fell asleep as the orchestrated frog melody vanished into the night. 

Day seven.

The next morning, post breakfast, we were picked up by our friendly guide, who upon realising that we were newly-weds, soon told us the story and tradition behind the water lilies that prides on the Namushasha Logo. In the tradition and heritage of the Mashi community, the lily is a symbol of marriage. Always worn at ceremonies as jewellery around one’s neck, the whiter one at day and darker one at night. 

Back at the main lodge, we embraced our last day of honeymooning as much as possible, reminiscing on our unique Namibian honeymoon.

Yes, a tropical beach would’ve been a dream and near perfect, but for me? A Namibian honeymoon. 

Jes Bekker is a proud Namibian and is passionate about writing and language. Tag along for the ride as she tries to uncover new insights into Namibia and explores what the country has to offer.