Owner-operated Tusk & Mane (part of Classic Zambia) is an intimate and excellently-run pair of fly camps located within the Lower Zambezi National Park, on the eastern banks of the Zambezi River, and prides itself on providing guests with an experience where the wilderness is the real luxury.
Overview
Operating out of three locations within the park, Tusk & Mane is a classic tented safari into the Zambezi Valley, where guests get the real ‘under the stars and around the campfire’ experience. The set-up is simple and unfussy in its approach and, most importantly, has a light environmental footprint. Tafara Springs is located in the Rufunsa Valley, at the foot of the escarpment. Kutali and Chula are set amongst winterthorn forests over two remote islands. Camp is booked on an exclusive-use basis and no more than ten guests per location.
Rooms
Shaded where possible, the sleeping rooms are standard across all camps and include twin beds or a double, solar lamps, comfy camp chairs and separate ensuite bathrooms with a bucket shower and a flush toilet. Each location is unique in itself. The island on which Chula is located has a ‘Jurassic Park’ feel to it, with hidden lagoons and open dambos. In contrast, Kutali camp is located on Kulefu Island within the coolest winterthorn forest in the lower Zambezi, making for a truly classic experience.
Food & service
A simple mess tent offers guests a retreat from the midday sun and a central spot to enjoy meals together and catch up on the day’s events. Meals are wholesome and the ultimate comfort food, all prepared over coals, and accompanied by a great selection of beers, wines and cold drinks. There is a real warmth to each camp, and a relaxed yet knowledgeable team makes you feel right at home. As co-owner Luke Evans says: “Ours is a “back to roots” approach built around a great Zambian team, excellent guiding, ice cold drinks, hot bucket showers, comfortable beds, good homemade food and our passion for this great Zambian wilderness.”
Activities
Activities include guided walking safaris, day and night wildlife drives, boating and fishing (May to November), canoeing, and bush breakfasts or dining under the stars.