“Tena Tena was the ideal place to spend the last 3 days of my safari experience, an elegant camp set by the river with 6 guest tents. ...”Elizabeth (Betsy) Caney - UK October 2013 more guest feedback
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Tena Tena
The South Luangwa National Park marks the end of the Great Rift Valley, one of the last remaining unspoilt wilderness areas and possibly the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa - a claim which is not an overstatement.
It is through this 9050sq kilometer National Park that the great meandering Luangwa River runs, with its ox bow lagoons, tributaries, riverine supported woodlands and large plains, all of which play host to huge concentrations of game including elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, giraffe, hippo and over 450 species of birds.
Situated in the exclusive Nsefu Sector Tena Tena sits nestled under a magnificent and thick grove of mahogany trees. On a double tiered river bank each room enjoys its own private view onto a long stretch of the Luangwa River.
Tena Tena is synonymous with Robin Pope Safaris as it was the first camp which Robin opened and ran and has become a favourite amongst many safari lovers over the years.
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The camp
Tena Tena when translated means “temporary home” and this is the feeling that we have tried to emulate throughout the camp but with a twist of luxury and comfort.
The six tents are very private with plenty of space between them and each with its own window onto a magnificent stretch of the Luangwa River where the hippos wallow and the lions roam. The en-suite bathrooms are spacious and open to the elements, designed to copy nature with curved walls around the trees and simple subtle colours and a view from every facility. Each tent is specifically located to maximize privacy both in the rooms, bathrooms and on the verandahs with comfortable sitting areas and excellent views onto the river.
The main area moulded around a large termite mound and mahogany tree with an old hippo run adapted into our path between the different levels is shaded by an enormous tent strung up between leadwood poles. With plenty of different seating areas there is space to relax and unwind whilst reflecting on the day's safari, before sitting down to a beautiful dinner on the banks of the Luangwa, under the stars and enjoying the sounds of the African night.
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Activities
Game drives
· An option of day or night drives.
· Toyota Landcruisers with two tier seats (three tier for groups / families) are used - a "window" seat (i.e. two people per row) for everyone.
· Open top vehicles, affording you total 360 degree vision.Walking
· The walks are led by our knowledgeable guide, and escorted by an armed National Park scout.
· Our guiding team is very passionate and will certainly impart some amazing bush insights at a level that will surprise you.Village Tours
· A visit to Kawaza Village and the schools is often remembered years later by our guests as the most rewarding part of their visit to Africa. This gives a more holistic experience of the Luangwa Valley.
· Alternatively take a stroll within the community around the Mfuwe area which is bustling – small “dukas” (shops), the market, bars, and people offering various skills.Wildlife Education Centre
· A charitable trust for the school children of the Luangwa Valley to teach them about wildlife and conservation.
· Great activity for the children especially.Tribal Textiles
· For unique locally produced hand-painted textiles, drawing inspiration from the stunning Zambian wildlife and surroundings.
· A perfect place to buy a souvenir or two of your Zambian experience...
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Why stay here
Located in Nsefu sector of the South Luangwa National park, this area boasts one of the more exclusive game drive areas of the National Park.
Tena Tena is sandwiched between the river and a complex lagoon system under a magnificent mahogany grove and is a magnet for wildlife and you do not need to go far for some incredible sightings.
The camp is small and intimate with a maximum of twelve guests and is run by an experienced team whom are all passionate about their jobs and the level of service that they and the camp provide for the guests.
The space within the camp allows for increased privacy and every room is specifically designed and located to blend into its environment whilst providing the best possible view onto the river.
The camp is run entirely by solar power enabling the rooms to have electricity throughout the day and night.
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Camp Layout
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Map
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Team
It is the little things that make a difference – a belief that we hold close and a comment which comes back time and time again. One of the biggest “little things” is the team who are there to make your holiday amazing.
As part of our responsible tourism policy we employ a team of staff mainly from the local community whom we bring through the system and teach and train as we go. From the guides who share their extensive knowledge and passion about the bush to our chefs tempting you at every turn with mouthwatering treats, we’ve built a team that we believe in but that also love what they do and have a great time doing it.
Key Facts
- Open dates 22 May - 31 October
- Country Zambia
- National Park South Luangwa National Park
- Accommodation Five twin and one double/honeymoon tent situated in the exclusive Nsefu Sector
- Fact sheet Download PDF information sheet
- Availability & rates Check availability and make a booking enquiry