In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. - John Muir
After a recent visit to Chobe River Camp, my fellow travellers and I are convinced that this is the ultimate reading/writing retreat in Namibia.Clasped in the tranquillity of nature, I felt undistracted and unencumbered, which automatically results in an openness to, in my case, what I was writing. This, of course, sets any creative’s light ablaze, which ultimately breathes life into stories. Everything becomes an inspiration – even a floating leaf on the river made me wonder about a journey that I have not been a part of. Where did it come from? Where was it going? What was, most likely still is, its intricate role in the ecosystem?
With all the comfortable lounging areas and beautiful views, you will feel absolutely no guilt for lazing around with your book with the singular aim to finish it. Perhaps you will decide to start a second and a third one that you have been meaning to read all year.
Writers will delight in the fact that there are no distractions and that inspiration here is as generous as the buffet options at the boma dinner. Plus, if you feel the need for an outing, there are a couple of activities to enjoy that will ensure that your creative spirit will get a turbo boost.
Some readers opt for the comfortable lounge area at the main building where the barman is in close proximity to hand them a drink. But if you’re anything like me, you would like to switch things up by sometimes sitting on the deck situated directly on the river.One of my favourite sounds in the world is the call of fish eagles that you will hear almost every other minute. With Botswana’s Chobe National Park just across the border, make sure you peek up from your book or laptop every now and again to see the wildlife wandering across the distant plains.
For some more variety, there are loungers at the pool area, or you can relax on the balcony of your chalet from where you can also enjoy a river view. Be sure to keep those binos nearby in case you see any movement across the river.
Give your creativity some more TLC by moving about and exploring the area. There are game drives and boat cruises to boot. Hop aboard one of the river boats, which will bring you much closer to some of the wildlife on the riverbanks. Birdwatching is also a beloved activity, as this area is home to abundant bird species. (If you are an avid birdwatcher, this story might also interest you.) Stretch those legs on a guided walking tour or work on your arm muscles on a canoe outing.
If you have some more time, perhaps you would like to opt for an excursion to Victoria Falls. After all, this is the perfect place to incorporate your visit with some neighbouring countries. Read more here.
One night while lying in bed, I eavesdropped on a lions’ conversation going on outside. Not that I will ever know how close they were, because one can hear a lion’s roar up to 8 km away. But that does not remove the thrill of the story they were telling. You will have to come and hear it for yourself.
Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them. – Lemony Snicket
Annelien Robberts is an avid wordsmith who turns her pen to all things travel, culture, and lifestyle. She was born in a small town called Otjiwarongo and grew up on a farm nearby. Creativity, nature and animals make her happy.
