Its always wonderful to wake up to the soft rustle of leaves with a soft wind blowing, the distant sounds of kudus trotting on the grounds, and the gentle chatter of birds outside your window. This was my reality during a recent 24-hour stay at a Protea Hotel in Chisamba where certain wildlife roam freely, and every moment is an unwinding adventure. The hotel is nestled deep within the heart of a sprawling wildlife reserve, offering guests an unparalleled experience in the midst of nature’s grandeur. From the moment you arrive, you are captivated by the raw beauty of the landscape and the sense of tranquility that envelopes the natural surroundings.

Upon checking in, and enjoying the buffet lunch selection, noticed that the hotel had made significant investments in enhancing its family-friendly amenities. Among the additions were a chess board, bicycles, volleyball and basketball courts, a children’s play area and even a small trampoline, providing ample opportunities for guests of all ages to enjoy their stay to the fullest. Unlike traditional hotels, where the only wildlife you encounter might be the occasional stray cat or bird, this hotel is home to a small number of animals, which includes a selection of birds, kudu, monkeys and lions which are in an enclosure.

As the sun began to set, it was time for a cup of tea and to seat by the mini veranda surrounded by the rhythmic sounds of the bush. I took in each moment, reminiscing about the day’s adventures knowing that it would be check out the next day and time to bid farewell to the staff, appreciating that my time here had been nothing short of relaxing and that put a smile on my face.