Lodge Details
Style
A small, friendly family run camp with fantastic activities on offer and fantastic vistas.
Setting
On the banks of the Luangwa River, the unfenced Camp is surrounded by wildlife. The camp is in the north of the South Luangwa National Park, in close proximity to a section of the park set aside exclusively for walking safaris.
Accommodation & Facilities
The 6 chalets are all made out of locally sourced materials where possible. Intricately weaved reeds and thatch make up the chalets, while beds are constructed from mopane & mapeti. 4 of the chalets are pretty much identical in layout, with 2 double beds and large mosquito nets. En-suite facilities include hot water, flushing toilets and outdoor showers. The 5th chalet is the Honeymoon Suite, similar to the other 4 but with a double outdoor shower. The 6th chalet is a little different, with 2 bedrooms and a shared bathroom built around the trunk of an old kigelia tree, this offers a little more privacy than the others – ideal for families or single travellers, travelling together.
The lodge has an open plan living and dining area and is small, keeping it personal and very flexible when it comes to meal times and activities.
Dining
The impressive cuisine offers a combination of Western and African flavours in a relaxed atmosphere. Breakfast and lunch are usually buffets, with a 3 course dinner; all meals are usually served alfresco. The bar is well stocked and open on a ‘serve yourself’ basis.
Activities
Most of the activities are guided by the camp owner, John Coppinger, alongside the other long term guides and armed guards. John does everything from Game drives & walking safaris to microlight flights in his very own 2 seater micro-light!
Game drives are in open safari vehicles seating up to 6 people, they are equipped with spot lights for night drives to see some of Zambia’s spectacular nocturnal wildlife. Walking safaris can be done in the day or as camp to camp 3-4 day safaris, where you can stay at some of Tafika’s sister camps, Chikoko Tree Camp and Crocodile Bushcamp. Microlight flights can’t be booked in advance and are at extra cost; however they give you an amazingly unforgettable experience and an opportunity to really see how this ecosystem fits together.
The birdwatching here is great, especially for crowned cranes on the Nsefu Salt Pan in the dry season and Pel’s Fishing Owls in the Emerald season.
Community and Village visits are also available and the local people are happy to share their unmaterialistic way of life.
Child Policy
Children of all ages may be allowed to stay at the camp at Tafika’s discretion; however they must be over 12 years old to take part in a walking safari.