Authentically enchanting

Island Bush Camp offers an authentic safari experience in the untouched wilderness of South Luangwa National Park, eastern Zambia. This remote bush camp is nestled under the cool shade of mature mahogany trees, conveniently located on the banks of the pristine Luangwa River, where a multitude of wild game gather during the dry season. Views from this spectacular camp stretch from the Chinedni hills in the east Luangwa Valley all the way to the Muchinga escarpment in the west, and will take your breath away. Be sure to bring binoculars, so you have the best possible wildlife sightings as you take in this endless and surprising landscape.

This intimate camp has just five double chalets, built on platforms from local materials and raised up on stilts for incredible views of the busy river below. With tasteful decor that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding environment, the subtle colors and uncluttered, cozy rooms offer a welcome refuge from busy, hectic lives. And after a long day of adventure in the bush, you’ll appreciate coming back to camp to find your comfortable bed turned down and waiting for you. The chalets have incredible open air ensuite bathrooms with cold running water, flush toilet, and stylish bucket showers with piping hot water provided once a day. You’ll never forget the unique experience of showering under the wide Zambia sky, the sounds of the bush drifting around you.

Meals at Island Bush Camp are prepared over an open fire or on a wood burning stove, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying a morning tea and toast that’s warm from the flames. Communal meals offer the opportunity to share bush tales with fellow travelers as well as the staff, who certainly have great stories to tell. Guests routinely compliment the chef on the quality and deliciousness of the food here, and for good reason. You’ll want to pack trousers with an elastic waistband so you will stay comfortable after the many snacks, brunch buffets, cakes, and three course dinners. And after dinner, relax in the lounge’s comfortable chairs where the attentive bar staff will be happy to pour you a glass of your favorite drink while you enjoy the canopy of stars shining above.

Activities at Island Bush Camp

The primary way to enjoy the land and the wildlife around Island Bush Camp is on a walking safari. While they offer game drives in the evening (so you can catch a glimpse of the bush’s more nocturnal creatures) and they will sometimes drive you to a spot that’s best enjoyed by foot, the walking safari will give you an unparalleled view of the terrain, the animals, and the minutia of these incredible ecosystems. South Luangwa National Park boasts an incredibly rich game population. Herds of elephants, hippos, and harems of zebra. Prides of lions, cackles of hyenas, leaps of leopards (yes, that’s what they’re called!): you can see them all when your experienced and talented guides lead you through specially scouted areas, and share their wisdom and knowledge. Be sure to pack a good camera, so you can catch all the sights and record them for your friends back home.

Tripadvisor comments Island Bush Camp

Admittedly I was a little nervous about going to the middle of nowhere with no electricity but I couldn't have been more pleased when Klaus greeted us and showed us around. The days are relaxing as the symphony of hippos plays in the background. The food coming out of Chef Matthews kitchen is unbelievable! Our guide always made us feel safe on the walking safaris when we were approaching animals and we had some wonderful experiences I'll never forget.

travelingponytail from Washington DC, District of Columbia

We stayed here in conjunction with a stay at Kafunte Lodge and it is a perfect combination. Island Bush Camp is small, quiet (apart from the ever present hippo orchestra but who can complain about being woken up by hippos) and beautifully simple. I loved the experience of the open-fronted huts, the paraffin lamps, and the bush showers. But don't worry it is very comfortable. The food is great. The walking was good and put the safari experience into a different perspective that was both more relaxed and more exciting. Klaus is a wonderful host.

Sue W