Author name: tafikatravela

Originally built for the BBC Natural History Unit who spent four years here filming Kingdom, and named after the legendary leopardess Olimba, the camp now opens for travellers. Olimba Camp is located just outside Nsefu Sector of South Luangwa National Park and is run by Remote Africa Safaris.
Olimba is tucked beneath expansive ebony trees with a spectacular view of the Luangwa river and a wildlife rich lagoon just a few hundred metres to the east of camp. Four chalets built from a combination of canvas, screed and thatch (including king and twin configuration flexibility) can accommodate up to 8 guests. For those looking for a more private safari experience, the camp may be booked out exclusively for groups of 6. The chalets are extremely comfortable with running water, solar power and ensuite facilities with an indoor and outdoor shower option open to the stars and views of the bush.
The food is excellent and is supplemented by a wonderful supply of fresh salad, fruit and vegetables from the Remote Africa Safaris’ vegetable garden.
From the camp guests can enjoy day and night game drives in a prime wilderness area. A private Kawere hide and seasonal carmine bee-eater hide also offer great armchair game viewing up close. Cultural visits to nearby Mkasanga Village are on offer where the school is supported by Remote Africa Safaris’ Tafika Fund in the form of books, educational materials, teachers’ salaries and pupils’ scholarships. Guests are always welcomed at Mkasanga with great enthusiasm and plenty of smiles and the church choir delights in the opportunity to serenade visitors with the harmonies of Africa.

The Victoria Falls border post between Zimbabwe and Zambia is now open round the clock with immediate effect after previously closing at 10pm every night. The extended operating hours will ease congestion, shorten processing times and allow much easier passage for travellers between the two sides of the Falls. The border post is one of the busiest in Southern Africa and the new operating hours will make it a fully functional and integrated tourism corridor.
Visitors will now find it much easier to:
• enjoy sunrise and sunset views of the Falls
• access night-time activities without the 10pm deadline
• create more flexible itineraries
• reach their destinations more quickly

There is plentiful accommodation in Livingstone and the Victoria Falls area.
The Falls are also known as Africa’s Adventure Capital and offer everything from white-water rafting in top-class rapids to abseiling down Batoka Gorge.

Kingdom, the BBC’s new nature documentary, was filmed entirely in the Nsefu Sector of South Luangwa National Park and follows the fortunes of the same leopards, wild dogs, lions and hyenas over five years as they give birth, hunt, fall ill, gain new territory and face intruders.
The producers planned 76 shoots over 1 700 days to follow the area’s biggest predators’ daily lives. Mother leopard Olimba and her daughter Mutima (which means ‘heart’ for the heart-shaped marking on her face) are shown as having to make the inevitable split as the cub grows up. Meanwhile Rita’s lion pride goes on to have a strong litter of eight healthy cubs while facing heavy rains and flooding that impact their hunting grounds.
The hyena clan is led by matriarch Tenta, supported by Tandala – they clash with Rita’s pride for prey. Meanwhile wild dog matriarch Storm and patriarch Flint raise their biggest ever litter as Flint battles an injury. Storm’s father was one of the oldest surviving wild dogs ever recorded, living to 12 and siring 208 direct descendants.
Zambians made up over 50% of the crew with 90 out of the team of 170 being local. Top wildlife photographer Edward Selfe was involved as was the formidable team at the Zambian Carnivore Programme.
You can watch Kingdom on BBC One or iPlayer. It debuts on Sunday 8 November 2025 at 6:20pm UK time.
If you’re inspired to visit South Luangwa, here are the best places to stay.

A brand-new lodge is currently under construction in Kafue National Park. Lwenge River Camp by Classic Zambia will be set along the Kafue river in the Musekese section of the park, promising water views from every tent and productive game viewing.
Lwenge will comprise five rooms sleeping 10 adults and will be available on an exclusive-use basis. To secure the camp for your family or group, a minimum of six guests must be booked at the adult rate. Under-twos stay free while children aged two to 14 stay at 50% of the adult rate.
All rooms will have en suite bathrooms with plumbed-in showers as well as in-room charging stations. The lodge will have a swimming pool, central Wi-Fi in the main area and a laundry service. A projector will be available for screenings and slideshows.
Guests will be able to go on morning and afternoon game drives, and enjoy boating, nature walks, catch-and-release angling (with tips to minimize harm to the fish) and birding. Keen photographers will relish time in the Kamasot hide with the Lwenge guiding team.

Although North Luangwa offers superb game viewing and is one of the few places in Zambia to see rhino, it is also a very remote national park and can be difficult to access.
The Classic Zambia team has recognised this and will be including flights between Kutandala – their North Luangwa lodge – and Mfuwe Airport for any bookings of four nights or more in 2026. This makes accessing North Luangwa much quicker and more convenient, and gives visitors much more time on the ground in this secret gem.
Kutandala has five rooms that sleep 10 guests. Low season runs from 1 to 30 June and high season from 1 July to 31 October. The camp is closed for the rainy season from November to May.

Luke Katemba is a talented wildlife photographer living and working in Zambia. He brings his clients’ stories to life through memorable and moving imagery, providing a professional service that covers photography, videography and drone filming.

We chatted to him about his fascinating and fulfilling career:

Name and Place of Birth:
My name is Luke Katemba, and I was born and raised in Zambia.
What inspired you to become a photographer:

I grew up near a national park, and during the dry season we’d take our cattle to the plains where they’d sometimes mingle with wildlife. Those early experiences built a natural connection to the wild. Years later, when I picked up a camera, it became clear that this was more than just photography, it was a way to tell stories that inspire people to care about nature.

The story of my best wildlife photo:
It’s not really a picture but a video: one of my favourite moments was capturing a lion cub playfully scratching his father’s face in South Luangwa. The father’s patience quickly ran out, and he gave the cub a small warning growl, a powerful reminder of how strong yet tender the bond between a lion and his cub can be. It’s those small, emotional moments that make wildlife photography so fulfilling.

The one sighting or animal I still want to photograph:
I’d love to photograph a pangolin in the wild. They’re incredibly elusive and represent the quiet side of conservation, the species we rarely see but work so hard to protect.

Which Zambian photographers inspire you:
There’s a growing community of talented Zambian photographers, and I draw inspiration from many of them, especially those using their work to promote conservation and showcase Zambia’s natural beauty to the world.

How clients can get in touch:

Clients can reach me via email at katembaluke@gmail.com

or on WhatsApp at +260 975 828 138.
How can people follow you:

Instagram: @katembaluke

TikTok: katembaluke1

Facebook: Lukekatemba

Services offered:

Through Luke’s Photography Limited, I offer photography and videography services, including drone operations, wildlife and conservation storytelling, documentary filming, and tourism content creation.
Favourite wildlife areas in Zambia:

South Luangwa, Liuwa Plain, and the Lower Zambezi are my top three. Each is different, South Luangwa for its density and drama, Liuwa for its serenity and open plains, and the Lower Zambezi for its beautiful balance between land and water.

‘Amatololo’ means roughly ‘pristine wilderness’ and is thus the perfect name for the new self-driving option that has opened in North Luangwa National Park. Ideal for intrepid and experienced self-drivers, the Amatololo Loop is the only place in Zambia where self-drivers can stay in four community-owned campsites along the way as part of a strong push to ‘Link Livelihoods and Landscapes’ by the North Luangwa Conservation Programme (NLCP). In essence, self-drivers can explore largely undisturbed miombo woodland, cathedral mopane and several waterfalls and the Luangwa and Mwaleshi rivers while supporting local communities.
The Amatololo Loop comprises four community-run campsites at Lufila Falls, Mushika, Nkholo and Muzungwe. Elsewhere in this vast park, independent visitors can stay at three traditional tented camps also overseen by the NLCP: Samala on the Mwaleshi River, Ituba and Mandalena.
Nature as it once was…
North Luangwa is one of Zambia’s remotest and underexplored parks, making it a magnet for those who truly want to get off the beaten track. It falls in the oldest section of the Great Rift Valley and comprises over three million hectares of varied landscape. It was the first place in the country to be awarded IUCN Green List status for respecting the community through fair and meaningful engagement, designing a plan to secure the area, effective management with successful conservation results, and a clear contribution to climate change, health and other challenges.
It is home to the largest elephant population in Zambia as well as good numbers of lion, leopard, hippo and crocodile while 416 bird species have been recorded. A major attraction for safari lovers is spotting endemics such as Cookson’s wildebeest, Luangwa (Thornicroft’s) giraffe and Crawshay’s zebra
Gateway to the Northern Circuit
North Luangwa is an excellent entrance to Zambia’s underrated ‘northern circuit’, which holds unique experiences such as:
The annual fruit bat migration in around November at Kasanka National Park
Superb hiking and mountain biking in the Mutinondo Wilderness
Seeing shoebills and herds of black lechwe in the Bangweulu Wetlands
Numerous waterfalls
Shiwa N’gandu or ‘Africa House’, an extravagant historic residence
The Kapishya hot springs
Lake Tanganyika, which is so big it holds three percent of all the planet’s freshwater to support multiple cichlid species

When to go
North Luangwa is most accessible during the July to October dry season.

How to get there
North Luangwa can be reached by road, either from Mpika via Mano Gate in the west, or from the east through Chifunda Chiefdom via Luambe and South Luangwa National Parks, Chama, or Lundazi, crossing the iconic Luangwa River by pontoon. A fully equipped 4×4 and confident off-road driving skills are essential for navigating the rugged terrain en route. Trailers are not recommended.

North Luangwa is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets: a pristine wilderness offering an exclusive wilderness experience far from the crowds.
With diverse habitats ranging from riparian woodland along the rivers with and cascading waterfalls in the escarpment through Miombo forests to Cathedral Mopane forest and river floodplains, the park provides a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable vistas, view points and intimate wildlife encounters. Its rivers sustain a rich variety of species year-round, making it a vibrant ecosystem.
Home to a thriving population of lions, elephants, buffalo, and endemic species like Cookson’s wildebeest, North Luangwa is a haven for wildlife and bird lovers. Renowned for its self-drive option, walking safaris (if you book with a private operator) and low visitor numbers, it offers an intimate experience where one can get closer to nature in one of the continent’s last great wilderness areas.
The Amatololo Experience is a circuit of community-owned tented camps and campsites in the adjoining Game Management Areas (Samala, Ituba, Mandalena), as well as a self-drive loop within North Luangwa National Park with four campsites (Lufila, Nkholo, Muzingwe and Mushika), designed to provide affordable self-drive, self-catering access to North Luangwa Landscape and the National Park.
Open July to Mid-November (rains dependent)
For those craving solitude, scenery, and a true off-the-grid experience, the Amatololo loop delivers wild Luangwa.The Loop is a unique 4×4 adventure within North Luangwa National Park, following the course of the Lufila and Luangwa Rivers. Along the route, four rustic campsites offer scenic and secluded stopovers:
North Luangwa experiences two main seasons: the dry season (June to October) and the emerald season (November to May). Ituba Camp and the Amatololo Loop are closed in the emerald season. Samala and Mandalena are open throughout the year.
Daytime temperatures are generally warm and sunny year-round, with lows of around 10°C in June and July, and highs reaching up to 40°C in October.
The late dry season offers the best game viewing, as wildlife concentrates around the last remaining water sources. The emerald season brings lush, green landscapes and up to 900 mm of rainfall with occasional showers lingering into April and May

Botswana is a treasure trove of natural beauty and unparalleled wildlife experiences. For luxury travelers seeking exclusivity, adventure, and serenity, Tafika Travel Advisor offers curated journeys into this enchanting destination. From the pristine wetlands of the Okavango Delta to the vast savannahs of Chobe National Park, a Botswana Safari promises an unforgettable blend of luxury and wilderness.
Botswana Safari: A Destination Overview

Why Choose Botswana for Your Safari?
Botswana stands out as a premier safari destination due to its commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation. With abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, it offers a sanctuary for travelers seeking authentic and uncrowded safari experiences.

Top Destinations in Botswana
1. Okavango Delta
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a sprawling inland river delta teeming with wildlife. Known for its labyrinth of waterways, the delta is home to species such as elephants, hippos, and leopards. Luxury lodges offer elevated views and private access to secluded areas.

2. Moremi Game Reserve**
Moremi Game Reserve combines the best of wetland and dryland habitats, making it one of Africa’s most diverse ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy sightings of the elusive African wild dog, lion prides, and large herds of buffalo.

3. Chobe National Park
Known for its immense elephant population, Chobe National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The Chobe River attracts a variety of species, providing unparalleled boat safari experiences.

4. Savuti Marsh
The dramatic landscapes of Savuti Marsh are renowned for their predator sightings. Lions and hyenas vie for dominance, creating thrilling opportunities for wildlife photography.

5. Khwai Concession
Situated on the border of Moremi, the Khwai Concession offers exclusive access to one of Botswana’s richest wildlife corridors. Night drives and guided walking safaris provide intimate encounters with nature.

Activities to Indulge in During Your Botswana Safari
1. Game Drives
Game drives are at the heart of any Botswana Safari. Exploring Safari provides customized drives in open 4×4 vehicles, led by expert guides who ensure you witness the Big Five and more in their natural habitats.
2. Mokoro Excursions
Gliding silently through the Okavango Delta’s channels in a traditional mokoro canoe offers a unique perspective. Encounter aquatic birds, frogs, and perhaps even a basking crocodile.
3. Walking Safaris
Immerse yourself in Botswana’s untouched wilderness on a walking safari. Led by knowledgeable guides, this activity allows you to track wildlife and learn about the flora and fauna up close.
4. Boat Safaris
Boat safaris on the Chobe River offer a tranquil yet thrilling way to observe elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Sunset cruises add a touch of romance to your adventure.

5. Night Drives
Exclusive to private concessions like Khwai, night drives unveil the nocturnal world of Botswana. Spot leopards on the hunt, bush babies leaping between trees, and owls silently gliding.

6. Luxury Camping
Stay in opulent tented camps that blend comfort with nature. Think en-suite bathrooms, fine dining under the stars, and private decks overlooking wildlife-rich plains.

Why Choose Tafika Travel Advisor?
Tafika Travel Advisor excels in crafting tailor-made itineraries that cater to the discerning traveler. Here’s what sets us apart:

– Exclusivity: Small group sizes and private tours ensure a personalized experience.
– Expert Guides: Our guides are seasoned professionals with in-depth knowledge of Botswana’s ecosystems.
– Sustainable Tourism: We prioritize eco-friendly practices, ensuring our impact on the environment remains minimal.
– Seamless Luxury: From chartered flights to gourmet cuisine, every detail is meticulously planned to offer unparalleled comfort.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Botswana Safari
1. Best Time to Visit
The dry season (May to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. However, the wet season (November to April) offers lush landscapes and excellent bird-watching opportunities.
2. Packing Essentials
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a good pair of binoculars. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a wide-brimmed hat.
3. Health and Safety
Ensure you have up-to-date vaccinations and carry a first-aid kit. Malaria is present in some areas, so consult your doctor for prophylactics.

4. Travel Documentation
A valid passport and, in some cases, a visa are required for entry. Check with your travel consultant for specific requirements.

Conclusion: Your Gateway to Botswana’s Wild Luxury
Tafika Travel Advisor invites you to step into a world where luxury meets adventure. Whether you’re gliding through the Okavango Delta, marveling at the predator dynamics in Savuti, or enjoying a private sundowner overlooking Chobe, Botswana promises a safari like no other.
Don’t just dream of Botswana; experience it with us. Contact Exploring Safari today to start planning your ultimate luxury safari. Your adventure awaits!

Experience the Magic of Zambia Safari Tours with Tafika Travel Advisor
Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Zambia offers some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring safari experiences in the world. With its unspoiled wilderness, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture, Zambia has emerged as a top destination for adventurers seeking an authentic safari experience. Exploring Safaris, based right here in Zambia, is your trusted partner in unlocking the secrets of this remarkable land.

Why Choose Zambia for Your Safari Adventure?
Zambia stands apart as a safari destination due to its raw and untouched beauty. Here’s why Zambia safari tours are a must:
1. Abundant Wildlife: Home to the “Big Five” and more, Zambia boasts a rich variety of animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses.
2. World-Class National Parks: With iconic parks like South Luangwa, Kafue, and Lower Zambezi, Zambia offers diverse landscapes ranging from riverine forests to sprawling savannahs.
3. Walking Safaris: Zambia is the birthplace of walking safaris, providing a unique, up-close experience with nature.
4. Victoria Falls: Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
5. Exclusive Experiences: Unlike more commercialized safari destinations, Zambia offers an intimate and off-the-beaten-path experience, far from crowds.

Tafika Travel Advisor: Your Gateway to Zambia’s Wilderness
At Tafika Travel Advisor, we pride ourselves on crafting tailor-made safari experiences that showcase the very best of Zambia. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking to reconnect with nature, our tours cater to all.

What Sets Tafika Travel Advisor Apart?

1. Local Expertise: Being based in Zambia, our guides have unparalleled knowledge of the terrain, wildlife, and local culture.
2. Eco-Friendly Practices: We prioritize sustainable tourism, ensuring that our activities contribute to the preservation of Zambia’s natural heritage.
3. Personalized Itineraries: No two safaris are alike. We design experiences that match your interests, budget, and schedule.
4. Safety First: With well-maintained vehicles and trained guides, your safety is our top priority.

Top Destinations for Zambia Safari Tours

South Luangwa National Park
Renowned as the crown jewel of Zambia’s national parks, South Luangwa is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. With over 60 species of animals and 400 species of birds, the park offers a rich and immersive safari experience. Highlights include:
Walking Safaris: Venture on foot to witness animals in their natural habitat.
Night Game Drives: Discover the nocturnal wonders of the African bush.
Seasonal Wonders: Visit during the dry season (May to October) for concentrated wildlife sightings around waterholes.

Lower Zambezi National Park
Nestled along the Zambezi River, this park offers a stunning backdrop for a safari adventure. Key activities include:
Canoeing Safaris: Glide through the tranquil waters of the Zambezi while observing hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
Fishing Excursions: Try your hand at catching the legendary tiger fish.
Luxury Lodges: Stay in exclusive accommodations that blend comfort with wilderness.

Kafue National Park
As one of the largest national parks in Africa, Kafue offers a mix of ecosystems and unparalleled biodiversity. Highlights include:
Game Drives: Explore the expansive plains and woodlands teeming with wildlife.
Boat Cruises: Discover the park’s waterways and spot aquatic animals.
Rare Species: Encounter unique animals like cheetahs and wild dogs.

Victoria Falls
A trip to Zambia wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the majestic Victoria Falls. Beyond its sheer beauty, visitors can enjoy:
Helicopter Rides: Get a bird’s-eye view of the falls and surrounding areas.
Devil’s Pool: Swim at the edge of the waterfall for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Cultural Tours: Learn about the local traditions and folklore associated with the falls.

Unique Safari Experiences with Tafika Travel Advisor

Walking Safaris: The Heartbeat of Zambia
Originating in South Luangwa, walking safaris are a quintessential Zambian experience. Led by skilled guides, these tours allow you to:
– Track wildlife on foot.
– Learn about the smaller, often overlooked aspects of the ecosystem.
– Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush.

Night Drives: Witness the Nocturnal World
When the sun sets, a different side of the wilderness comes to life. Night drives offer the chance to spot:
– Leopards prowling for prey.
– Bush babies leaping through trees.
– Hyenas on the hunt.

Canoeing Adventures: Glide Through the Zambezi
For a unique perspective, embark on a canoeing safari along the Zambezi River. Paddle through serene waters while keeping an eye out for:
– Elephants quenching their thirst.
– Birds swooping down to catch fish.
– Crocodiles basking on riverbanks.

When to Visit Zambia for Safari Tours
Zambia offers year-round safari opportunities, but the best time depends on your preferences:
1. Dry Season (May to October): Ideal for game viewing as animals gather around water sources. The weather is cooler, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
2. Green Season (November to April): Known for its lush landscapes and baby animals, this period is excellent for birdwatching and photography.

Practical Tips for Your Zambia Safari Tour
1. Pack Smart: Bring lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. Don’t forget binoculars and a camera!
2. Health Precautions: Consult your doctor about vaccinations and malaria prevention.
3. Respect Nature: Follow your guide’s instructions, and avoid disturbing the animals.
4. Currency: Zambia’s currency is the Zambian Kwacha, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
Book Your Zambia Safari Tour Today
With Exploring Safaris, your dream of experiencing Zambia’s untamed beauty can become a reality. From the thundering roar of Victoria Falls to the serene landscapes of the Lower Zambezi, every moment promises to be unforgettable.
Contact us today to plan your bespoke Zambia safari tour and create memories that will last a lifetime