Chikoko Trails – Our small and exclusive bush camps in South Luangwa, Chikoko Tree Camp and Crocodile River Camp form the Chikoko Trails. Slightly upstream from the parent camp Tafika, and only accessible on foot, Chikoko Tree Camp and Crocodile River Camp offer a unique bush experience that is ideal for those that are keen to get away from the restrictions and inactivity of game drives. Set in a beautiful corner of the valley where there are no roads these camps have excellent game densities and offer you a great opportunity to experience the bush on foot in isolated and natural surroundings. It is usual to enjoy good sightings of leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant, and zebra, as well as Cookson’s Wildebeest and Thornicroft Giraffe both of which are unique to this area. As you might expect from Zambia, there is also a huge variety of birdlife here. Set beside the small, seasonal Chikoko Channel and intentionally kept small and personal each camp offers accommodation for a maximum of 6 people in simple grass-walled chalets with en-suite facilities. At Chikoko Tree Camp, the thatched chalets are built 3 metres above the ground, topped by a canvas shade providing shelter from the hot day’s sun and at the same time enabling guests to take in the sights, sounds and smells of their surrounds from the comfort of their chalets. These chalets also provide a wonderful vantage point to observe the surrounding area and its wide variety of game and birdlife. Crocodile River Camp stands on an old river bank overlooking a large and usually dry ox-bow lagoon with views down the length of it. Nestled in amongst the massive ebony trees, its great location provides the ideal spot for the 3 chalets built entirely of natural materials. All chalets have en-suite facilities with the showers open to the stars. With all living areas open to the elements it offers wonderful opportunity to view game from all parts of the bush camp whether dining, having cold refreshments or just relaxing during the heat of the day. Both camps provide the full support of a chef, general camp staff, some of the most experienced walking guides in the valley and an armed scout. All luggage and supplies are carried into and out of camp by porters Being in a true wilderness area where there are no roads, all activities are done on foot offering the perfect opportunity to see the variations in flora and fauna. Game density here is excellent and it is usual to enjoy good sightings of leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant, and zebra, as well as Cookson’s Wildebeest and Thornicroft Giraffe both of which are unique to this area. As you might expect from Zambia, there is also a huge variety of birdlife. The daily routine is to take a long walk in the morning lasting approximately 4 hours, starting early to avoid the heat of the day. The pace is generally leisurely as the guide will stop and talk about points of interest as you go. The ground is flat though sometimes uneven. The guide will always judge the abilities, and take into account the preferences, of the group during these walks. Mid way there will be a stop for tea/coffee freshly brewed over an open fire. Guests will return to camp mid-morning with time for relaxing, lunch and a siesta before taking part in another shorter walk at 4pm returning to camp by dusk. Ample drinking water is supplied for each person and the wearing of lightweight comfortable walking shoes/boots is recommended. Transfers - To reach Chikoko Tree Camp from Tafika it takes a brief drive along the river to a crossing point, cross the river by canoe and then a further 10 minute walk to reach camp. Crocodile River Camp is a further 45 minute walk from the river crossing point. Opening Dates: Chikoko Tree Camp: 25th May to 31 October and Crocodile River Camp from 1st June to 31 October Recommended length of stay - 2 nights or more at each camp. Please note walking safaris are only suitable for children aged 12 years and over