A charming, remote camp in the African wilderness, Island Bush Camp is an excellent place to go to experience the African bush on foot.
Location
Nestled beneath towering mahogany trees on the banks of the Luangwa River, with views stretching to the Chindeni Hills and the Muchinga Escarpment, Island Bush Camp offers a wonderfully peaceful escape deep within South Luangwa National Park. The journey in itself is part of the adventure, a scenic drive winding through woodlands and riverine habitats that set the tone for your time in the bush.
Rooms
The camp’s five charming chalets are raised on stilts, blending effortlessly with the natural surroundings. Each one is open-fronted, inviting the sights and sounds of the river right into your space. The en-suite bathrooms are refreshingly rustic, with bucket showers and flushing toilets, all designed to bring you closer to nature without compromising comfort. Solar lanterns cast a soft glow come evening, adding to the camp’s authentic feel.
Amenities
At the heart of Island Bush Camp is the open, thatched lounge and dining area overlooking the river. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a day in the wild, whether you’re sharing stories around the firepit or enjoying a drink from the bar. The food here is simple and hearty, cooked over an open fire or wood stove, and we love that you can even take part in a ‘kitchen safari’, a unique chance to see how bush cooking comes to life.
Activities
What truly sets Island Bush Camp apart is its focus on walking safaris. Accompanied by experienced guides and armed scouts, you’ll explore the bush at a slow, immersive pace, discovering the smaller details of the ecosystem and tracking wildlife footsteps up close. There’s also the option to walk between Island Bush Camp and nearby Three Rivers Camp, deepening your connection with the landscape. While game drives are less frequent here, the walking experience offers something truly special for nature lovers.
Sustainability
The camp operates on solar power, keeping its footprint light while embracing off-grid living. What we love most is their genuine commitment to the local community: from supporting schools and health clinics to providing jobs and training for local people. Kafunta Safaris works closely with villagers to foster conservation-friendly practices, helping to safeguard both wildlife and livelihoods.
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Alistair