Travel reviews by Ms A from S Newington

"From the moment we arrived at Tafika Lodge we knew we were going to have an amazing time. We had the personal attention of Carol and John and their staff for most of our stay as we arrived just as other guests were leaving.

Dinner for two by candlelight on the edge of the Luangwa was a real highlight. The guides were knowledgable and imparted their enthusiasm and respect for the wildlife to us.

The food was excellent - much appreciated as a vegetarian to feel that the vege dishes were not an after thought."

"Crocodile camp was very comfortable, the rooms very tastefully laid out, and the food and staff excellent.

We were glad to have spent 7 nights altogether on safari with time to relax at each of the camps and lodge. We were able to really soak up the atmosphere and not feel rushed."

"The setting of Chikoko Camp was just as described by Expert Africa. We spent one afternoon sitting on our deck and watched as more than a dozen elephants came to drink at the river. The wildlife here was abundant with lots of sightings at or close to the camp.

We had many close encounters with animals throughout the trip but felt we also got a rounded experience of the whole ecology of the South Luangwa.

Enjoyed two afternoons doing watercolours (provided at the camps).

The camps provided access on foot to some different terrains. Amazing that despite no road access they could serve up such high class meals and service."

"[Ed: these travellers visited Tafika twice this trip - either side of the walking camps; see below for their comments on their first stay here.]

Only one slight disappointment was that on the last night drive a problem developed with the vehicle so the spot light and head lights failed. As we had seen so much on other occasions this did not matter much to us but might have been disappointing had we not had such an amazing experience up to that point.

They also arranged a visit to the local school which Tafika Lodge supports. The teachers and children were really welcoming. It was an eye opener to see the facilities and living standards of the local people.

I recommend anyone who has the chance should meet the people as well as the animals."

"The service standards were excellent. The experience was a bit pseudo colonial though and might not be to everyone's taste. The rather persistent monkeys that come to take what they can from your dining table were a bit of a nuisance and the stone throwing monkey guards not very effective.

It felt like the hotel was a bit of an intrusion into nature but its location close to the Falls meant convenient access both morning and at sundown.

The spa facilities which offer massages on the edge of the Zambezi were a real treat as was afternoon tea. Skip lunch if you are going to indulge though."