Reviews of Tena Tena
Wildlife sightings and reviews
160 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Tena Tena and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
80% success
88% success
47% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
93% success
93% success
88% success
27% success
7% success
5% success
3% success
0% success
0% success
"A gorgeous place with animals galore"
(I) Don't expand it any further, It seems less of a Bush Camp with 6 tents than it did with 4.
(ii) It seemed a long walk from tent 3 to the central facilities for 2 people in their mid-70's
BUT no-one could fault the welcome and treatment." See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia
"Tena Tena review"
When going to lunch on the first day, we had to take a different route because of 2 elephants near the tent. On one evening we had to be driven to the tent because of more elephants. At night the hippo (and hyena) provided a tremendous chorus. We really liked it, but others might want earplugs.
The views from the dining area were not quite as good as from the other camps – at this time of year the river was fairly distant. However it was a nice place to sit, and wildlife was still visible. (One night a leopard walked along the sand in the light of the watchman’s torch)
Food again was very good, and our needs as non-meat eaters were well taken care of.
Again game drives were by open vehicle, giving excellent viewing. We saw very few other vehicles on the drives (only occasionally others from Tena Tena). There were a very large number of elephants in the area.
Our first guide’s style didn’t quite match ours. The company dealt with this well - we raised this with Jessica, the hostess and we were changed to Bertrame & also George, whom we knew from Nsefu. We then spent more time watching animals’ behaviour.
With hindsight, part of this is knowing what you want and communicating it. When you meet a guide for the first time, they ask “What would you like to see?” We are happy to see anything, so I guess our response is not very helpful. However, we want to spend time with animals, watch their behaviour and learn about them. We’ve learnt it is important to think about what you enjoy & communicate this to the guide.
Tena Tena is a realy good camp." See all these reviews: 11n in Zambia
"Great start to our holiday at Tena Tena"
"Tena Tena review"
Considerate and professional staff.
Enjoyed both the walks and drives. Excellent wildlife sightings - including honey badgers!" See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia
"Animals and birds abound at Tena Tena"
There is so much wildlife to see and numerous beautiful spots not far from the camp. We very much appreciated the overall respect for the wildlife - ie no chasing or speeding or off-roading or parking very close." See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia
"The ultimate wilderness experience"
I didn't think it could get better but this was the best -- to stand 50 metres from a curious bull Giraffe was amazing and we also saw elephant close up and a buffalo herd." See all these reviews: 8n in Zambia
"Luxury Camping at Tena Tena."
This camp was magical. The bar, dining area and breakfast area on the riverbank were stunningly beautiful, but the critical factor that enabled us to enjoy this camp and its location so much was the staff; attentive, caring, professional and great fun. Special mention for Jessica, our host, who was superb on every level and whose company we enjoyed immensely.
Ultimately its all about the wildlife though and we are indebted to the patience, skill, knowledge and great humour of Nyambe, our guide for 3 days. The game drive and walking safari experiences were humbling, enthralling, extraordinary and basically beyond my range of superlatives.
So many incredible moments, but champagne on ice on the riverbank, watching baby hippos perfecting synchronised swimming moves, as the sun set, was special." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Tena Tena review"
Large prides of lions are easily seen. The highlight of the camp was watching a group of five lions eating a cape buffalo. I would highly recommend Robin Pope camps with a well run staff." See all these reviews: 15n in Zambia; 6n in Botswana; 5n in South Africa
"Spectacular Night Drives at Tena Tena"
Again like its sister camp Nsefu, we saw two leopards every day and an array of other animals but the lions evaded us.
The outstanding part of the game drives was at night when a wide range of nocturnal animals could be seen.
This was a pleasant stay worth doing in conjunction with its sister camp Nsefu." See all these reviews: 15n in Zambia; 4n in Malawi; 3n in Botswana
"Not your average tent camp"
The camp is within walking distance to Nsefu, and we took the opportunity to transfer while going on our first walking safari. After several days of game drives the walk was a new experience that allowed us to see South Luangwa in a very different way. Seeing and learning about the "Small Five" and the "Green Five" during a walk was just as exciting as watching the "Big Five" on our game drives.
The highlight of our stay at Tena Tena was a trip to the Kawaza Village. Meeting students at the school and visiting the local clinic gave us a deep appreciation for the incredible work that is being done here with often very limited resources. And if you ever visit Kawaza make sure to stay for lunch and try the local staple Nshima with chicken and vegetables. It is delicious!" See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia
Holiday styles & special interests in Zambia
From birdwatching breaks to walking holidays, find great ideas for your trip in Zambia.
Other lodges in South Luangwa National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.