One of Zambia’s oldest safari camps, Tena Tena is a small and exclusive bush camp situated in the remote northern Nsefu sector of the South Luangwa National Park, where it enjoys a marvellous setting on the banks of the Luangwa River. Managed by Robin Pope Safaris, Tena Tena is one of several Robin Pope camps in the Luangwa Valley, but its remote location and small size lend it an air of exclusivity that most others lack.
In keeping with other Robin Pope camps, Tena Tena isn’t overly glamorous. It consists of just six classic safari tents and a large central mess - a marquee tent supported by narrow tree trunks in place of poles and pitched on a raised split-level platform - tucked away in a copse of large mahogany trees on the banks of the Luangwa River. The camp has a wonderfully rustic vibe, and, like most Robin Pope camps, is immaculately serviced.
Where the Robin Pope camps typically shine is in the quality of the service and the game-viewing activities, and here Tena Tena is no exception. Tena Tena’s small size gives it a very exclusive feel. You can expect to be treated to a high degree of personalised service, and have a great deal of flexibility in how you organise your day (there are no fixed game-viewing schedules).
The guiding at Tena Tena is superb, and the game-viewing activities varied—day and night drives are of course offered, as are guided walking safaris led by experienced rangers and extending fly camping safaris (at additional cost).
Tena Tena Camp is open from 22 May to 31 Oct.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Tena Tena Camp is exclusive, with only five standard tents and one honeymoon tent. In each tent, a dressing area separates the bedrooms from an en-suite shower and toilet, which are open to the stars.
The tents are supported on concrete plinths which double as private verandahs, furnished with comfy chairs and a coffee table. The canvas rolls up on one side of the tents, to let in air and give an improved view. All tents overlook the Luangwa River.
Tena Tena's honeymoon tent is larger and more discretely located. It has a king-size bed and a separate lounge.
Dining
A large marquee tent serves as the dining and lounge area. An additional bar is located on the river edge.
A light breakfast (porridge, toast, cereals) is usually taken around the campfire, followed by a hearty brunch on return from the morning’s game viewing. Dinner is a 3-course affair, served around the communal dining table.
Facilities
Bar, lounge and dining tent
Activities
Day and night game drives
Guided walking safaris
Fly-camping expeditions (must be booked in advance)
Child Policy.
Tena Tena Camp accepts children aged twelve and over.
