Zambezi Queen by Mantis | Chobe River Front Namibia
Luxury floating boutique hotel
Navigating the great Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen by Mantis is a 42-metre luxury floating boutique hotel that embodies sophistication in one of the planet’s most diverse landscapes. With our all-inclusive offering, guests can indulge in exceptional meals, beverages, and activities while enjoying diverse vantage points for authentic game viewing. Experience the beauty of the African wilderness in complete comfort and elegance.
Think of your time on the Zambezi Queen not as a mere river cruise, but as a floating boutique hotel that navigates the Chobe River, exploring its stunning surroundings throughout the day and returning to the same point each evening.
Embark on a uniquely African adventure with uninterrupted views of the Chobe National Park, home to over 120,000 elephants and many other remarkable wildlife.
With a guest-to-crew ratio of 3 to 2, the Zambezi Queen delivers an exceptional level of personal service and attention. The floating boutique hotel features 10 suites, averaging 155 sq ft (14.4 sq meters), and 4 luxury suites, averaging 165 sq ft (15.3 sq meters).
All with private balconies so you can soak up the Chobe River breeze and appreciate the endless views of the unique African landscape beyond.
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- Rooms
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From the moment you step on-board the Zambezi Queen, it becomes apparent that no expense was spared in creating one of the world’s most unique river safari experiences. Equipped with 10 tasteful and luxurious suites - all suites come with en-suite bathrooms (shower only) and full length sliding shutters for both privacy and protection from the sun.
Hairdryers, toiletries, gowns and slippers are provided for your comfort, while electronic safes in each room are ideal for storing your valuables. All suites accommodate two adults, and two of the larger suites can take a maximum of three adults. Suites can be configured with either one king-sized bed or two single beds.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Shower, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
While both types of suites let you relax in a luxurious setting, our four Luxury Suites are slightly bigger, and have larger balconies that house two deckchairs and a table. Our Luxury Suites also feature both side and front sliding doors for a truly panoramic view of your surroundings.
Two of the Suites are triple rooms with an extra bed and can accommodate up to three adults each.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Bath Towels, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Ensuite, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Safe, Shower, Vanity Cabinet
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Meal on Request
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, Game Viewing, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, River Cruises, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Discover a new level of relaxation with the Zambezi Queen Spa -where curated treatments and river reviews come together in perfect harmony. Inspired by the rhythms of the Chobe, our spa offers a tranquil space to unwind and reconnect with nature, adding a gentle touch of indulgence to your river safari experience.
Staying on board the Zambezi Queen is like being on a permanent game viewing vehicle, but with a much higher comfort factor. Situated in the heart of the Chobe region with access to river frontage of the Chobe National Park, we also offer water-based game drives by tender boat, allowing you to experience the enormous diversity and concentration of wildlife up even closer.
Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities though, as you watch the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season. Catch sight of huge herds of elephant as they swim across the water, as well as buffalo, lion, crocodile, lechwe, puku, giraffe, zebra, sable, kudu and the occasional leopard as they gather to quench their thirst at watering holes. Besides animal life, you’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you listen to the sounds of a hippo grunting and breathe in the sweet smell of African grass.
No trip to the Chobe is complete without trying your hand at a fishing safari where if you’re lucky, you may even catch a tiger fish. One of the greatest fighting fish in the world, the tiger fish is the most sought after prize of these waters and is known for its ferocious spirit. It's not all about tiger fish though. You may also hook one of the many bream species, African pike, tilapia, catfish or upper Zambezi yellowfish as you explore over 100 kms of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, as well as the winding Kasai Channel and thrilling Chobe and Mambova rapids.
We offer both conventional equipment as well as flyfishing equipment for our fishing safaris, because we know that the area is renowned worldwide for its flyfishing. We supply rods, flies, lures, lines, leaders and reels and all equipment is included in our rate.
Because of our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round – from the annual floods starting in March to the feeding frenzies in the winter months. Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember. Land an eight pounder or more and earn bragging rights for years to come, as you enjoy a fishing trip that's second to none.
With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population sometimes by 20% compared to the winter months. From December through to March birdlife on the Chobe is extremely busy and the colourful breeding plumage on display is an extraordinary sight.
Experienced birders and even eager amateurs will delight in spotting distinct birds such as African skimmers, rock pratincoles and the African finfoot, either through their binoculars or with the naked eye. Having access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat lets you spend many hours on your birding safari also viewing cattle egrets, fish eagles, open-billed storks, lesser-striped swallows, pied kingfishers and the striking carmine bee-eater. The slow drift of the tender boat means that you won’t disturb the peaceful silence and can also get up close to the birds and observe their fascinating behaviour.
Uninterrupted access to wild animals. Absolute silence. Golden light. The Chobe River is an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. To help you capture that perfect moment, our custom-designed photographic safari boats are available on request and cater for 6 clients in individual photographic seats. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras of all types and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.
Bring your own photographic equipment as we don’t supply this - the optimal lens to bring is an 80 - 400mm zoom. Because this is a water-based safari, you'll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment, being able to view the animals in the Chobe National Park surrounded by that magical golden light Africa is renowned for.
One of the best ways to learn more about a country is to experience its culture. A village tour while on board the Zambezi Queen will take you by tender boat to a local Namibian village called Ijambwe, situated on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including their daily challenges and traditions.
Bar, Lounge and Dining
Dining Room
Our dining room offers a peaceful corner to share an intimate dinner, or gather to share tales over culinary dishes. Enjoy three hearty meals a day, starting with a continental or cooked breakfast. Indulge in a buffet lunch and end the day with a four-course plated dinner, complemented by drinks and light snacks in between.
Bar
Golden hour and beyond, settle in as the sun dips beneath the Chobes’ horizon. Enjoy a selection of Southern Africa’s finest wines, a delicious cocktail mixed with precision and flare, or an ice-cold lager served with the friendliest smile and snacks.
Lounge
For the best views, join us on the upper deck. Find a spot to relax in the lounge, on the bow or stern - each area offers a spectacular view of the Chobe River and unobstructed views of the unique African landscape, through the large floor to ceiling glass sliding doors.
Special dietary requirements can be catered for, but we ask that you specify this when you book - our remote location means that we need a bit of time to source ingredients that may be out of the ordinary.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Tea and Coffee Included
Fast Facts
5 Stars
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge by Mantis | Impalila Island
Nestled on Impalila Island in Namibia, Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is a tented lodge surrounded by breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, birdlife and ideal fishing conditions.
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge features eight large air-conditioned Meru safari tents set on a secluded island beneath a riverine canopy on the banks of the Chobe River. Step out on to your own private balcony to listen to the rapids, relax on your sumptuous bed and then head to the dining room or bar for something delicious to eat or drink. Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is also perfect for families and welcomes children of all ages.
Because of its unique geographic location, the game viewing and birdwatching in and around Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is second to none. Plus, you can get up close and personal with the wildlife as you glide towards them silently on the tender boats. The lodge’s location is particularly well known for its high quality fishing in over 100kms of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, where you can hook a tiger fish, bream and several other fresh water species.
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Our large Meru safari tents at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge give you all the excitement of a safari adventure in Africa, coupled with the ultimate in comfort. Your large air-conditioned safari tent comes complete with a king-size bed, a dressing table, bedside lamps, chairs and an en-suite bathroom - everything you’d expect from a deluxe hotel. At the same time, because you're in a tent you won’t lose that feeling of being in the thick of the African bush, as you listen to the sounds of the Chobe River flowing past you and the call of fish eagles in the distance.
There is one family tent available, which is a Standard Tent with an adjoining smaller tent.
Furnished with two single beds - convertible to king, this tent can be booked together with the adjacent Standard Tent: For peace of mind, your children will be right next to you, while enjoying the adventure of staying in their very own tent.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony , Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Safe, Sahara Style Tent, Shower, Twin Bed, Vanity Cabinet, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Safe, Shower
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Helicopter Rides, River Cruises, Safaris, Wildlife Tours
Cycle Through the Heart of Impalila Island. Swap four wheels for two and explore the hidden gems of Impalila Island on a guided bicycle tour. Whether you’re up for an exhilarating 20 km adventure or a more leisurely 6 km scenic ride, this unique experience takes you beyond the river and into the heart of island life.
Pedal along winding dirt paths that lead you through ancient baobab forests, past local villages, and to one of the most remarkable geographical landmarks in the world – the only quadripoint, where four countries meet: Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Along the way, your guide will introduce you to the rich history and traditions of the island’s communities, offering a rare glimpse into daily life in this remote and beautiful corner of Africa.
Situated in the heart of the Chobe region with access to river frontage of the Chobe National Park, we also offer water-based game drives by tender boat, allowing you to experience the enormous diversity and concentration of wildlife up even closer.
Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities though, as you watch the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season. Catch sight of huge herds of elephant as they swim across the water, as well as buffalo, lion, crocodile, lechwe, puku, giraffe, zebra, sable, kudu and the occasional leopard as they gather to quench their thirst at watering holes. Besides animal life, you’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you listen to the sounds of a hippo grunting and breathe in the sweet smell of African grass.
The Chobe is known as a photographer's paradise and for good reason. The soft early morning light and the sunsets at dusk, combined with striking animal behaviour, make for dramatic and unusual photo opportunities. Before your game viewing excursion, remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat, as temperatures can reach over 40 degrees centigrade. You should also bring along a jacket for the chillier temperatures in the early mornings and evenings.
Enjoy the ultimate in game viewing safari decadence as you sip on a drink and cruise along the river in one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
No trip to the Chobe is complete without trying your hand at a fishing safari where if you’re lucky, you may even catch a tiger fish. One of the greatest fighting fish in the world, the tiger fish is the most sought after prize of these waters and is known for its ferocious spirit. It's not all about tiger fish though. You may also hook one of the many bream species, African pike, tilapia, catfish or upper Zambezi yellowfish as you explore over 100 kms of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, as well as the winding Kasai Channel and thrilling Chobe and Mambova rapids.
We offer both conventional equipment as well as flyfishing equipment for our fishing safaris, because we know that the area is renowned worldwide for its flyfishing. We supply rods, flies, lures, lines, leaders and reels and all equipment is included in our rate.
Because of our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round – from the annual floods starting in March to the feeding frenzies in the winter months. Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember. Land an eight pounder or more and earn bragging rights for years to come, as you enjoy a fishing trip that's second to none.
With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population sometimes by 20% compared to the winter months. From December through to March birdlife on the Chobe is extremely busy and the colourful breeding plumage on display is an extraordinary sight.
Experienced birders and even eager amateurs will delight in spotting distinct birds such as African skimmers, rock pratincoles and the African finfoot, either through their binoculars or with the naked eye. Having access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat lets you spend many hours on your birding safari also viewing cattle egrets, fish eagles, open-billed storks, lesser-striped swallows, pied kingfishers and the striking carmine bee-eater. The slow drift of the tender boat means that you won’t disturb the peaceful silence and can also get up close to the birds and observe their fascinating behaviour.
Sit patiently and absorb the beauty around you and soon you’ll be rewarded with a unique sighting that you’ll want to photograph. Because you’ll have access to the Chobe National Park and the Caprivi wetlands, you’ll get exposure to a wide variety of species you may have never seen before. The distinct sounds of the call of an African fish eagle mingling with the grunt of hippos will stay with you long after your Chobe River birdwatching safari is over.
Uninterrupted access to wild animals. Absolute silence. Golden light. The Chobe River is an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. To help you capture that perfect moment, our custom-designed photographic safari boats are available on request and cater for 6 clients in individual photographic seats. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras of all types and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.
Bring your own photographic equipment as we don’t supply this - the optimal lens to bring is an 80 - 400mm zoom. Because this is a water-based safari, you'll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment, being able to view the animals in the Chobe National Park surrounded by that magical golden light Africa is renowned for. Tea and coffee will be offered in the morning during the winter months and soft drinks, local beers and wines will be served in the afternoon. Light snacks are also served during your excursion, providing you with a photographic experience that's also about pure comfort.
Departure times are early morning and late afternoon and the safari takes three hours. Please let us know at the time of booking your holiday if you’d like to use our customised photographic safari boat. Capture your stay with breathtaking photos of the unique African landscape and the wild animals that surround you.
Discover Subiya Culture on Impalila Island
Step into the rich traditions of the Subiya people with a guided village visit on Impalila Island, a unique opportunity to connect with a community deeply rooted in the Chobe region.
Guests are warmly welcomed into the village, where families proudly share their way of life, from ancestral farming practices to the symbolism of their traditional attire and beadwork. With advance notice given simply as a courtesy, villagers may choose to dress in their finest and express their heritage through song, dance, and storytelling - all expressions of pride.
Wander beneath ancient baobab trees, browse beautifully handcrafted curios, and learn how generations have lived in harmony with the river and land. It’s a respectful cultural encounter, led by the community, and offered in the spirit of sharing and celebration.
Bar, Lounge & Dining
At the heart of Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is our bar, lounge and dining area. Step into our open air, thatched roof bar and lounge area, where you are transported into the warmth of Ichingo.
The lounge and dining area overlook the flowing waters of the Chobe River, with our swimming pool to the side – a favourite with the kids and the perfect spot to cool off in the afternoon heat.
Come and enjoy each meal as you watch the waters flow by, and be entertained by our well trained staff. Our wine list is stocked with an excellent selection of South African award-winning wines. Which complement the healthy, distinctly African-inspired freshly prepared cuisine.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
3 Stars
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 8
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Flora, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
Chobe Princess By Mantis | Chobe River Front Namibia
A RELAXED, INTIMATE RIVER SAFARI EXPERIENCE
Drifting along the majestic Chobe River, our three Chobe Princess houseboats offer supreme comfort, in one of the world’s most diverse landscapes. Enjoy our all-inclusive African river experience as you witness extraordinary wildlife scenes and immerse yourself in a truly intimate river safari.
With a limited number of guests on each boat, staying on one of the Chobe Princesses is like having your own houseboat. These houseboats allow you to explore the stunning Chobe River at your own pace, offering an expansive and varied adventure through one of Africa’s most iconic waterways.
With a guest-to-staff ratio of 2 to 1, the Chobe Princess houseboats provide a high level of personal service and attention. Each cabin accommodates two guests and measures an average of 140 sq ft (13 sq meters), offering a comfortable and well-appointed space for guests to relax and enjoy the surrounding river scenery.
Two of the Chobe Princess houseboats feature four cabins, and the third, larger houseboat offers five cabins.
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Cabin
Chobe Princess Cabins have beautiful big windows that slide open to let in those ever-changing river views. Listen to the soft grunt of hippo as you watch for elephant at the water’s edge – all from the comfort of your king-size bed. Cabin interiors have soft linens, and a soothing colour scheme of riverine greens and whites that blend with the natural landscape.
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Electrical Outlets, Wardrobe
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Safe, Shower
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fishing, Game Viewing, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Adrenaline Activities, Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Cultural Tours, Fly Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, River Cruises, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Wildlife Tours
Game viewing on the Chobe River is most exceptional from March to November, when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile in search of food and water. Winter offers particularly dramatic sightings, while the spring and autumn shoulder seasons provide excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife. During the summer rains, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of life, creating unique wildlife and birdwatching experiences.
Each day, guests venture out by tender boat to observe large herds of elephants, buffalo, lions, crocodiles, zebras, and more, all drawn to the river. The guides maintain a respectful distance, monitoring animal behaviour and adjusting the boat as needed to ensure minimal disruption. Guests will also encounter an impressive array of birdlife and plant species along the way.
No trip to the Chobe is complete without experiencing the thrill of fishing. On the Chobe River, it's not just about the catch – it’s about the adventure. Hooking a Tiger fish, one of Africa’s most sought-after species, is an experience anglers dream of. Known for their strength and speed, Tiger fish offer an exciting challenge that leaves guests with unforgettable memories.
Fishing safaris are conducted on a catch-and-release basis, ensuring the sustainability of the fish populations. The knowledgeable guides are dedicated to safely returning the fish to the water, allowing them to thrive for years to come.
Rates include all conventional fishing gear, such as rods, lures, lines, and reels. For those interested in fly fishing, it’s recommended to bring personal gear, as preferences can vary. This ensures each guest enjoys a fishing experience tailored to their needs.
With over 450 species, diverse terrains, and a stunning African backdrop, the Chobe River provides the ideal setting for a highly rewarding bird-watching safari. Birding season begins in September, with the arrival of migratory birds boosting the population by up to 20% compared to the winter months.
The prime time for birdwatching is early morning before breakfast, as various species leave their roosts and venture into the National Park. Guests aboard any of the three Chobe Princesses enjoy access to knowledgeable guides and tender boats, ensuring a truly rewarding birding experience.
Uninterrupted access to wild animals, absolute silence, and golden light make the Chobe River an unforgettable photographic safari destination, and one of Africa's top spots for wildlife photographers. To help capture that perfect moment, a custom-designed photographic safari boat is available on request, accommodating up to four clients in individual photographic seats.
The boat features custom-designed swivel chairs, offering greater stability and 360-degree views for a wider range of subject matter. Each seat is equipped with a mount for resting SLR cameras, and an experienced safari guide will assist in finding the perfect shot.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own photographic equipment, as it is not provided onboard. The recommended lens is an 80-400mm zoom for optimal results.
Travel by tender boat to a local Namibian village on the floodplains of the East Caprivi and meet the elders and locals of the Subiya tribe. Gain a deeper understanding of life in this 100-year-old village as you learn about their daily challenges, farming practices, and traditions.
The tour concludes with a vibrant display of traditional dancing and singing, where guests are welcome to join in the fun.
As a memento of your visit, consider purchasing a woven basket, beaded jewellery, or a carved wooden animal. The sale of these crafts helps empower the village by providing a valuable source of income. If you wish to bring gifts for the village children, items such as school stationery, books, or clothing are always highly appreciated.
Dining on the Chobe Princess
Situated on the middle deck, the open-plan air-conditioned dining area offers panoramic views of the Chobe National Park. Dining is a communal experience, where all guests gather around a single table, creating an opportunity to connect with fellow travellers. With a maximum of 8 to 10 guests, the setting ensures an intimate and engaging atmosphere. Separate seating can be accommodated upon request.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
4 Stars
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
