If walls could talk, Zambia’s original backpackers would have many stories to tell. They’ve been catering to independent budget travellers since 1996, which makes them pros. Whether you’re into adrenaline adventure or just taking it Zamb-easy, they’ll steer you in the right direction. Spend a morning rafting the mighty Zambezi followed by a Mosi (the local lager) and hammock time under mango trees in a fruit salad garden. Once you’ve regained your land legs, join Jollyboys for an outing to markets, sunset spots and local events. Then head home for a jolly good restaurant meal or whip up something special in the self-catering kitchen. A lekker rock pool is all the dessert you’ll need. Then off to bed for a cool sleep (all the rooms have fans and the en suite rooms have air-con) – but not before you’ve hit their internet café (open late) and skyped your friends all about it.