Introduction
In the heart of Zambia’s Luangwa Valley, Tarisai Mulenga has carved out her niche as the owner of Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd, trading as Bridge Camp Zambia. This lodge and campsite offer a haven for tourists, providing not just a stopover but an unforgettable experience that blends natural beauty with exceptional hospitality. Mulenga’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by a return to her roots, a bold leap during the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, and an unrelenting determination to redefine Zambian tourism.
Inspiration Behind Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd
For Tarisai Mulenga, the decision to pursue her venture in the male and foreign-dominated tourism industry in Zambia was driven by a desire to contribute to her homeland’s hospitality sector. “After saving up and seeing the devastating effects of COVID-19 on businesses, particularly abroad, I knew it was time to return home,” she shared. With a background in the restaurant industry and side hustles during her time working in the UK, she felt ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
Her opportunity came in the form of an advert for a business on sale during the pandemic. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the global crisis, Mulenga took up the challenge, acquiring what would become Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd. Her vision was to create a uniquely Zambian tourism experience, one that blended comfort with the natural beauty of the Luangwa Valley.
Mission, Vision, and Core Values
Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd operates with a mission to elevate hospitality services, ensuring that guests leave with memories deeply rooted in Zambia’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. The vision is to transform Bridge Camp Zambia from a mere stopover for travelers en route to national parks into a sought-after destination in its own right. The core values driving this vision are rooted in creating exceptional value-for-money experiences and offering services that exceed customer expectations.
“We want to make the Isenge Luangwa Safaris a place where Zambian memories are created—where guests and their families can experience the beauty of the Luangwa River and the valley,” says Mulenga. Her goal is not only to serve tourists but also to offer them an immersive experience that captures the essence of Zambia’s natural and cultural heritage.
Products and Services
At Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd, guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including eight stone and thatched-roof chalets and camping grounds. In addition to offering lodging, the campsite has a fully operational bar and restaurant. The activities available to guests reflect the stunning environment: hiking, canoeing, bird watching, and enjoying the sunset on the Luangwa River sandbanks. These activities cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers, giving them an authentic experience of the Zambian wilderness.
Mulenga’s approach to business is deeply customer-centric. “Our customer service is excellent,” she explains. “We listen to our guests’ needs and assure them of a memorable stay.” This attention to detail has played a key role in her ability to attract and retain customers, often through word-of-mouth recommendations.
Business Model and Revenue Generation
Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd generates most of its revenue from accommodation services, but additional income streams come from the bar, restaurant, and swimming pool charges. “We try to keep our expenses in check and minimize unplanned projects on-site,” Mulenga notes. This disciplined approach to managing resources has allowed her to reinvest in the business and make improvements despite financial constraints.
Her business model is designed to provide a balance between high-quality service and affordability. This has not only attracted local and international tourists but also enabled the business to remain profitable even in the face of external challenges.
Target Market and Customer Demographics
The target market for Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd consists primarily of tourists traveling through Africa and local travelers seeking a break during their journey. Mulenga’s in-depth understanding of the tourism industry has allowed her to cater to these customers effectively. Her previous experience working abroad gave her insights into the high standards expected by international guests, while her familiarity with the local landscape has enabled her to offer practical guidance to Zambian travelers.
The lodge’s location along the D145 road, a key route in Eastern Zambia, ensures it serves as a convenient rest stop for tourists on their way to various national parks. But for Mulenga, it’s not just about the convenience—she wants her guests to see Bridge Camp Zambia as a destination in its own right, one where they can relax, explore, and enjoy the beauty of the Luangwa Valley.
Unique Value and Competitiveness
What sets Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd apart from its competitors is the personal touch that Mulenga brings to every guest’s experience. “We do not only see our guests as stopover visitors,” she emphasizes. “We thrive by giving them the best and most memorable experiences from the moment they arrive.” This commitment to providing a personalized and high-quality experience has earned the camp a loyal customer base and positive reviews on platforms like Google and iOverlander.
Key Milestones and Achievements
Since its inception, Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd has achieved several significant milestones. The lodge has regained the confidence of its guests, attracting more overlanders and tour groups from all over the world. Mulenga’s efforts have also been recognized on a larger stage, as she won the prestigious Hospitality Founder of the Year Over 30 Award at the FOYA Southern Africa Awards in 2024. The positive reviews and growing guest numbers are a testament to the hard work and dedication she has poured into the business.
Overcoming Challenges
Like many entrepreneurs, Tarisai Mulenga has faced challenges along the way. One of the major obstacles was the condition of the site when she first acquired it. The campsite was rundown, requiring significant investment to bring it back to life. “Funding has been a challenge,” Mulenga admits, “but with discipline, we’ve managed to reinvest our income back into the business.” The slow but steady reinvestment has allowed her to make improvements without taking on unmanageable debt.
Another challenge was reintroducing the campsite to travelers, particularly after the long hiatus caused by the pandemic. However, by building a strong online presence through a website and social media platforms, Mulenga has successfully re-established the business, with guests spreading the word about their positive experiences.
Innovation and Staying Ahead
Innovation plays a key role in the ongoing success of Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd. Mulenga has embraced internet marketing to increase bookings, recognizing the power of online platforms to reach a global audience. “We prioritize internet marketing because it has connected us with more guests,” she explains. This digital strategy, combined with her on-the-ground adaptability, has helped the business remain competitive in an evolving industry.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd is committed to engaging meaningfully with its staff, guests, suppliers, and the local community. Mulenga ensures that the business operates with social responsibility in mind, supporting local suppliers and working closely with the communities surrounding the campsite.
Long-Term Vision
Looking to the future, Mulenga’s vision for Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd is clear: she wants to turn Bridge Camp into a destination of choice, not just a halfway stopover for a night or two. To achieve this, she plans to continue reinvesting in the business and maintaining a strong online presence. “We’ll keep our standards of service high and ensure good guest relations at all times,” she says confidently.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Tarisai Mulenga offers sage advice: “Don’t just look at owning a business, be an entrepreneur! That business needs you mentally and physically, and all the hard work surely does pay off.” Her journey with Isenge Luangwa Safaris Ltd is a testament to the rewards that come from dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your vision.
