Tranquil and inviting

Situated in a remote part of the Luangwa Valley, within the 9,000 square kilometer South Luangwa National Park, is the owner-operated Tafika Camp. Perfectly placed at a scenic bend on the west bank of the Luangwa River, just north of the Nsefu sector, this camp is in a game management area that boasts some of the best leopard viewing around, along with the prolific populations of a diverse blend of wildlife. For the best opportunities at viewing and photographing these animals, visit during the dry season (May to mid-November). Known for having some of the most experienced guides in the valley, Tafika is proud to offer a wide range of safari activities for your vacationing pleasure. Be sure to try them all, and after your adventures you can relax in the generous lawn and outdoor space, or enjoy a refreshing sundowner in their stunning open-air lounge.

Shaded by giant leadwood trees, Tafika’s gorgeous reed and thatch chalets, constructed entirely from natural materials, and are built around the trunks of kigelia, or sausage trees. Four of these roomy chalets offer a pair of double bed accommodations. There is a honeymoon chalet with a king size bed, and a two bedroom family suite which sleeps four comfortably. Each bed is draped with mosquito nets, so you can gaze through the opening at the side of the chalet and enjoy the star-drenched skies without interruption. Equipped with en suite facilities, these unpretentious chalets offer private outdoor sinks and showers for an incredibly memorable and uniquely romantic bathing experience. Furnished with charming textiles and decor that compliment the natural wonder of the environment just outside the door, the rustic charm of these ‘tree house’ rooms will win you over as soon as you arrive. And the gentle lamplight of the evening hours will lull you into deep, peaceful sleep.

Tafika’s staff is as pleasant as the atmosphere; they’ll go out of their way to meet your needs, and will always greet you with a warm smile. As a family-run camp, many of the staff have been with Tafika for years. Their genuine love of their work shines through everything they do, especially the meals. Not only are mealtimes a community affair (don’t be surprised to share meals with guides and owners alike), but they’re incredibly delicious, and very accommodating to dietary restrictions, so don’t hesitate to ask. Whether you’re enjoying a savory meal, having an afternoon snack in a cozy hammock, or sipping a cocktail by the crackling fire, you’ll be delighted by what Tafika Camp has to offer. If you’re interested in venturing deeper into the bush, consider spending a night or two at the Tafika walking safari camps, Chikoko Tree Camp and Crocodile River Camp. With excellent meals and comfortable surroundings, these sister camps offer lovely views of the river and an even more intimate wildlife experience.

Activities at Tafika Camp

Many camps offer the traditional day and evening game drives (complete with a stop for sundowners), as well as walking safaris, with a nice break for tea and snacks. Tafika is no exception; their 4 passenger vehicle means your game drive will be tailored to your specific requests, and ensures you’ll never feel crowded. The walking safaris are second to none, and led by guides whose greatest joy is sharing the many wonders of this amazing valley. Either of these game viewing experiences will lead you to an abundance of wildlife: lions, hippos, elephants, gazelles, wild dogs, monkeys, and of course the area’s famous leopards. But not many camps offer mountain biking! Combine the close-viewing of a walking safari with the airy speed of a game drive and you’ve got the thrills and excitement of Tafika’s signature 1.5 hour long mountain bike safari through the game management area and along main roads through the park. When you’ve seen all the wildlife on your bucket list, take a day trip to the local village and school at Mkasanga. Travelers routinely express that this authentic, engaging cultural experience was the highlight of their trip to Tafika. However you choose to spend your time, everlasting memories await.

Tripadvisor comments Tafika Camp

Tafika is a gem - the staff, location, guides, food...it all comes together perfectly. The atmosphere is very relaxed and homely - it was almost like being at my parent's place! The care and dedication of the staff is one of the best I've experienced. Do the walking safari - you will appreciate wildlife at a totally new level. For photo buffs, there is no better place to capture the night sky! I hope to be back soon.

Vikram S from London, United Kingdom

The staff are so knowledgeable and interested in making sure that you get maximum pleasure out of your stay and could not have done more to enhance our stay. A highlight was cycling into the park, with relief cyclists to take our bikes back so that we could continue on our sunset/night game drive. The game viewing is extraordinarily good - and you generally see the animals with no other cars around. Having struggled in many parks on many occasions to see leopard, we really loved the frequent and good sightings of leopards. Frequent sightings of lions, often with cubs, elephants crossing the river and wonderful bird life make this a trip we will never forget. The outstanding food is something that I had not remotely anticipated - altogether an experience that far exceeded our expectations.

Alex W from Cape Town, South Africa