Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa

The staff kept the day's activities running smoothly and were friendly throughout. The open common areas are lovely, built around a huge baobab tree with views over the river. There was free Wi-Fi, and the golf course looked fun, maybe a little challenging. We arrived in the morning for a toilet stop before a 2.5-hour river safari, which we really enjoyed. Afterward, lunch was ready as a buffet high above the Chobe River. There was a good selection, including kudu, and desserts too. Then we headed out in the safari vehicle for a 2.5-hour game drive.

The riverfront setting is gorgeous and clearly well cared for. I had great service the whole time, and the buffet had a nice range of good food. Such a lovely spot for a scenic, relaxing break. I'd recommend it.

We had a great view of the local wildlife around the lodge, with the river right there and the Chobe National Park close by for day safaris. The lodge is large and beautiful, and my room looked out onto a lovely river garden. The facilities and decor were very good, with nice attention to detail. Staff were helpful and friendly every time we dealt with them. The buffet meals had lots of choice and were delicious, including local specialties. I'd happily stay again.

I was there with 17 clients the week of January 31, and checking out tomorrow can't come soon enough. I won't book clients here again. This morning, after my shower, I found that my used towels had been taken away without replacements. One client also saw a mouse run out from behind the toilet. The rooms are worn and dated, with tired, moldy tiles. Phones, safes, outlets and other things weren't working to some extent in every room. The AC was unpredictable, leaving some guests freezing and others roasting. A few clients had to switch rooms two or three times before finding one that was even mildly acceptable. Most of my married couples were given twin beds they hadn't asked for. Service across the resort barely deserves one star. At meals, I've never received a drink before finishing the food. You have to flag someone down to order, despite staff being everywhere. The food is basic cafeteria fare, lukewarm and bland, and dinner is almost the same as lunch. On our first night, the coffee pot was empty when dinner opened. I asked three people before anyone refilled it. There's a lot of staff standing around. When I went to the front desk for my husband's backpack, three employees were behind the counter and three more were in front talking. I was the only guest, but all six ignored me so long that I reached over the end of the counter and got it myself. Nobody even seemed to notice.