Tena Tena is the flagship camp for the acclaimed Robin Pope Safaris. Accommodating only eight guests, it is perched high on the banks of the Luangwa River near the spectacular Buca Buca lagoon, in the remote Nsefu Sector of the park. Mahogany trees shade the tented suites, each under canvas with a private veranda, dressing room and open-air bathroom with superior toiletries and linen bathrobes. Persian rugs, hand-dyed Indian cotton bedspreads and Bedouin cushions add elegant comfort. The waterhole in front of the tents teems with game, and guests can spend siestas game watching from the comfort of their beds. From the thatched dining room and bar between two
mahogany trees (views span the Luangwa River and the hills 60km distant), guests can watch elephant, hippo and antelope on the riverbanks. There is always game in the vicinity of Tena Tena (open from June through October), more often than not elephant and buffalo. While away a morning watching the animals drinking at the beautiful Buca Buca lagoon nearby. With the camp being remote and small, guests have these scenes to themselves. Guests can enjoy day and night game viewing from open safari vehicles as well as game walks.
South Luangwa game walks – considered by many to be the best in southern Africa and led by a qualified guide and accompanied by an armed game scout – offer an even more intimate bush experience. An absolute highlight of a stay at Tena Tena is the possibility of going walking with Robin Pope himself, who spends most of his time at his flagship camp.
For its secluded location, authentic safari style, owner involvement and superb game viewing, Tena Tena is undoubtedly one of the best safari camps in Zambia.