Reviews of Chikoko Tree Camp
Wildlife sightings and reviews
119 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Chikoko Tree Camp and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
The canoe crossing, and walk to camp were wonderful, and immersive. Seeing lions on foot is something I will never, ever forget. At all times, I felt safe, and looked after. But also, I felt "in the bush for real". This is no light-hearted stroll, and especially in the October heat. Uneven ground, long distances between shaded stops. 44 degree c temps. But SO rewarding! I loved every sweaty moment.
The "hut"/"chalet" itself is very spacious. Ensuite, shower, loo, dressing area all on ground level, with a staircase leading you up to the bed/sleeping area. Beautiful colourful robes were supplied (I wished they were at all the camps), I suspect, because the staircase going up to bed was completely visually open. Again, the mosquito nets were fabulous, with no rips, and with a deep overlap. Again, new re-chargeable fans helped with the October heat. No charging points in the rooms themselves..... you had to charge phones and camera batteries in the main area - and not leave them overnight. Hyenas quite like anything left out.
Food here, is of exceptional quality, even given the remote location. I struggle on safari, and especially if I am the only one in camp, as I don't eat dessert on a regular basis at home, and my gosh, staff go so far out of their way to bake cakes, and make elaborate meals. One feels very spoilt and the choices are amazing.
This camp deserved a stay of more than one night. On return, I will book a 2-night, combined with 3 at the Big Lagoon location. It is a "niche" camp, in that, it may not be for everyone. Sightings are further away, than in a vehicle. You have to work to get close. Have to commit to being up and out early. But certainly, for me, the immersive experience, and expert guiding put it right up there in terms of "perfect for me"." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
No real complaints but preferred other camps." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia; 5n in Malawi
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
"Chikoko Tree Camp - experience the park"
The staff was very attentive and our every request met punctually with a smile.
The game walks were wonderful and immersive.
The guides and rangers were so skilled, that we never felt uncomfortable or exposed - rather we felt prepared for the adventure.... and an adventure it was!
The wildlife were abundant and the guides were able to anticipate the animals movements.
We sipped tea while watching elephants cross the Luangwa river, spotted a crocodile tucked beneath some shrubs, learned to recognize tracks and the guides successfully tracked a lioness which we were able to view from on foot... an inexplicable thrill!
Only to return for cool drinks and gourmet dinners - do not miss the chance to tour the kitchen and stare in amazement at the simple earthen facilities that produce such outstanding food." See all these reviews: 11n in Zambia; 2n in South Africa
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
The walking was pretty easy as it was mainly over flat terrain and the main heat of the day from 11.00 - 15.00 was avoided as we were in the camp during this period having lunch and a rest after our early start.
One thing worth noting is that on a walking safari you tend to see fewer animals than you do on a game drive - though those you do see give you more of an "Adrenalin" moment. We also learnt a lot more about stuff on the ground, the trees & plants, the animal tracks etc - we are now experts on dung beetles!
We really enjoyed this part of our trip walking through the bush but perhaps this wouldn't suit someone on their first safari." See all these reviews: 7n in Zambia
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
From the raised terrace we could see animals approach the waterhole but bush growth prevented us seeing them once they arrived.
The plumbing was not very good despite the staff's attempts to fix it." See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia; 4n in Botswana; 1n in South Africa
"Chikoko Tree Camp revisited"
Although the platform is good for viewing I slightly preferred the slightly more rustic appearance 8 years ago." See all these reviews: 12n in Zambia; 8n in Malawi
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
"Chikoko Tree Camp review"
Even though we were only with Amon for a short time while we walked from Tafika to Chikoko we learned a huge amount from him, as we also did from Stephen who we joined at Chikoko and then continued on with to Big Lagoon.
A highlight was a wonderful and prolonged sighting of a honey badger as we made our way between Chikoko and Big Lagoon, which was very special indeed." See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia
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