Reviews of Tafika
Wildlife sightings and reviews
340 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Tafika and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
84% success
92% success
42% success
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99% success
99% success
98% success
92% success
92% success
46% success
9% success
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0% success
"Tafika review"
We had some 'interesting' moments but very well handled by excellent guide Stephen Banda." See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia; 6n in Rwanda
"Tafika review"
"Tafika is our favourite safari camp..."
We considered going to another camp but felt that Tafika offered us everything we were looking for and we were not disappointed.
Just the right level of comfort, excellent guides and fine food." See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia; 2n in Zimbabwe
"High class and run by very experienced people"
One of us was ill on arrival and the attention and support provided, particularly by Jen Coppinger, was exemplary. We were located, as requested, close to the Sitenje, making movement to and fro much easier. However, this did mean our veranda was very public, so we made little use of it in the afternoons. Otherwise, the room was very comfortable and luxurious.
The camp is well located with views over the Luangwa river, so there were plenty of sightings from camp of elephants, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles and birds. A Pels owl called behind our chalet, though we never saw it.
Our guide, Brian, had more than 20 years experience at Tafika and was very knowledgeable. We saw plenty of wildlife over our 3 days. Tafika has a strong focus on walking safaris. With no water based options, our activities were confined to game drives. As Tafika is outside the park, these became rather repetitive, with the same drive out along the river every time. Brian was reluctant to take the only other route, to the salt pan, in the day time, despite us requesting this, so we missed sightings of African wild dogs which we had particularly wanted to see. The lack of use of radios meant guides did not hear of unusual sightings elsewhere. We did have excellent lion, leopard, Thornycroft giraffe, zebra and elephant sightings, as well as a very shy Eland.
Food was generally good, though meat was often tough, even Zambian beef, which was beautifully tender in our other camps. The vegetables were a highlight and we thoroughly enjoyed seeing the wonderful vegetable garden at the back, which Nelson proudly showed us. For our taste, meals are somewhat formally hosted, so despite the excellent service and care, we never totally relaxed.
The exemplary service was finally illustrated by the couriering of a phone to our next camp which we had accidentally left charging in the camp." See all these reviews: 11n in Zambia
"Tafika review"
We felt like we were among family, and were very sad to leave.
The guides were great, and the trip to the village was very enjoyable, with no pressure." See all these reviews: 8n in Zambia; 3n in Zimbabwe
"Outstanding Experience"
The rooms are private and inviting. The outdoor shower is lovely. The food is prepared with care and is very tasty.
The game viewing is superb and our guide Bryan did an outstanding job. We loved the game drives and looked forward to each as a new adventure." See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia
"Tafika review"
Food was excellent; the room was spacious and there were other interesting guests." See all these reviews: 16n in Zambia; 5n in Rwanda
"Fantastic Introduction to Safari"
The guiding and game viewing were both spectacular, very knowledgeable guides and plenty wildlife. Although just outside the park in the GMA it is just a very short drive and invariably there were sightings on the drive to and from the park.
Food was really good and the vegetarian in our party was delighted with all the meals, perhaps it helps that Carol is vegetarian.
The accommodation although it may look rustic was very comfortable and private. We particularly liked the outdoor shower.
Would certainly like to go back." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Nobody does it better"
It was a last minute decision to switch to include Tafika in our trip, and so it was only possible for us to take the family chalet. We'd been a little sceptical about this but it turned out to be a perfect choice. The chalet has 2 separate showers and 2 toilets and a shared basin area, and it has a lovely position overlooking the river so it was nice to sit outside and chat in the afternoons and watch the hippos mating (yes, really!).
It was a shame to miss John and Carol, but Heather and Bryan were doing an excellent job in their absence. I love Tafika, it is still one of my favourite safari camps in Africa. Full of character and with a warm welcome and run by people who appreciate the important aspects of the safari experience. In a world where safari camps seem to be in a battle to "out lux" each other, resulting in an experience that is increasingly divorced from the natural environment, Tafika remains a beacon of authenticity. I wish there were more camps like it.
Game viewing was superb with some stand out leopard sightings, including a mother with 2-3 month old cub and the same mother chasing a younger female up a tree." See all these reviews: 15n in Zambia
"Great time at Tafika"
Guiding with Makupa was very good and the wildlife excellent, especially the leopards." See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia
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