Chikoko Tree Camp, South Luangwa | Timbuktu Travel
South Luangwa

Chikoko Tree Camp

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About Chikoko Tree Camp

A walking enthusiast’s dream in the remote northern section of the South Luangwa.
Lace up your boots and prepare for the ultimate walking adventure at Chikoko Tree Camp. Set just upstream from Tafika, on the opposite side of the Luangwa River, the landscape is achingly beautiful and with no roads in the area, truly wild. It was here that David Livingstone proclaimed his love for the Luangwa and as you tread the pristine African bush alongside the resident wildlife, it’s easy to see why. This is untamed Africa for real walking enthusiasts with no frills attached.
From $690 per person/per night
Safari
3 Rooms
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Property details

The property

Nestled amongst a cluster of sausage and ebony trees on the banks of the dry Chikoko River, the thatched main area has wonderful views of the small waterhole in front of camp and all its inhabitants. Everything here is unassuming and relaxed; the bar is always open on a help-yourself basis and the wooden benches and scatter cushions, perfectly positioned to keep an eye on the surroundings, add to the easy-going atmosphere.

The rooms

The chalets at Chikoko are a feat of engineering genius and the two-storey reed constructions stand romantically among the tree-tops on wooden stilts. Downstairs is a bathroom with shower, basin and flushing loo whilst upstairs in the bedroom the open windows keep things cool and airy. All have equally good views of both the riverbed beyond and any game that happens to be passing below.

Activities

With no roads or tracks in the area, this is a true walking camp. And once you have been here for a couple of days, we guarantee that you will want to do every safari on foot! In the morning, leave camp with the rising sun as the bush wakes up from the night before and walk for around 3-4 hours. In the afternoon, walk for 1 or 2 hours before returning to camp for a gin & tonic around the fire. The camp is also part of the Chikoko Trails walking route, where you can book a couple of nights at sister camp Crocodile River, and walk between the two.

What you'll love

What you'll love

The combination of a remote location, small size and rustic feel makes this a truly wild safari experience.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Visit in either September or October and marvel at the colony of white-fronted bee-eaters who move in to occupy the riverbank in front of camp.
Something to think about

Something to think about

The camp is only accessible on foot – a bonus for many, but if walking isn’t your cup of tea, you might need to rethink!
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Zambia

South Luangwa National Park

The home of the walking-safari, chic yet rustic bush camps and incredible guides.