Baines' Lodge

About

Named after Thomas Baines, the 19th-century explorer and artist, Baines’ Lodge is built with deep respect for its environment. Its architecture employs commercial timber, thatch and over 150,000 recycled aluminium cans used in the walls for insulation. Elevated above permanent water and lagoon systems, suites feel part of the habitat, not apart from it. The lodge ethos is eco-sensitive, blending refined craftsmanship with a soft footprint, and offering guests romantic touches such as ‘sky beds’ and ‘star baths’ that blend nights and stars with the wilderness.

Rooms

There are six beautifully appointed suites, each elevated on platforms above the surrounding water-and-papyrus landscape. Interiors are airy and elegant, with four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets, large windows or doors opening onto private wooden decks, en-suite bathrooms featuring both indoor comforts and outdoor star baths, and ceiling fans for a gentle breeze. Some suites offer the unique option of moving the sky bed outside onto the deck for sleeping under the stars. Views focus on the shimmering lagoon and river wildlife passing by.

Dining

Meals at Baines’ are a celebration of flavour, romance and occasion. Guests begin with full breakfast before game drives, enjoy light snacks and refreshments in the bush, and return to the camp for gourmet plated dinners in the open-plan dining area. High teas, picnic lunches by remote lagoons, sundowners under the wide skies, and the option for romantic private dinners on your suite’s deck add to the personal touch. Wine selection is excellent and service highly attentive.

Activity

Baines’ Lodge delivers an array of wildlife and nature-based experiences. Game drives (morning and evening) allow close encounters with lions, leopard, wild dog and a host of other species in the concession; walking safaris offer immersion into the bush; seasonal mokoro (dug-out canoe) trips and motorized boat excursions explore the waterways; night drives reveal nocturnal creatures; and the “Living with Elephants” activity affords a rare chance to learn about and walk with semi-habituated orphaned elephants.