ISLAND BUSH CAMP – SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Set under the shade of ancient mahogany trees on the banks of the Luangwa River Island Bush Camp is a rustic and authentic Zambian bush camp with lots of character. The camp is the gateway to one of the most remote and unspoilt areas of South Luangwa National Park and offers a pure wilderness experience with walking safaris at the core of its activities.

The camp has just 5 grass and reed bush chalets built on stilts with private ensuite bathrooms, comfortable beds with mosquito netting and bucket showers. The views stretch from the Chindeni hills in the Eastern corners of the Luangwa Valley to the Muchinga escarpment in the West, presenting the complete natural boundary of this remote and beautiful wilderness

If you are moving on to Three Rivers Camp we recommend the experience of walking between both camps.

LOCATION

Island Bush Camp is located in the south of the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Access is by flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe and it is an hour’s drive to Kafunta River Lodge and then a further two – two and a half hours’ drive south to Island Bush Camp.

CAMP

Set high on wooden platforms the five bush chalets are completely open at the front, offering views over the river and allowing the sounds of the bush to drift through. Enjoy the traditional and natural style of the decoration and observe the hippos in the river while taking a warm shower before a restful night under tented mosquito nets.

The shady lounge is the heart of the camp with comfortable chairs and a welcoming bar looked after by friendly staff. All you have to do is relax, binoculars at hand, and observe the many “passers-by” on the riverfront. Watch the fall and the rise of the sun from the fireplace, gaze at the galaxy of stars, listen to the sounds of the wild and let the guides entertain you with their witty bush tales.

The Bush Kitchen is where the magical art of camp cooking takes place – turning a variety of ingredients into delicious plates of food with a wood burning stove and minimal equipment. Ask for a tour of the kitchen by the chef – it’s fascinating!

There is a bush hide just outside camp – brilliant for those hours inbetween activities for some more wildlife viewing.

Please note that there is no power at Island Bush Camp – all batteries and electrical devices should be fully charged before arrival.

ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE

Walking safaris are the main activity at Island Bush Camp.

The South Luangwa National Park has year-round access and is one of Africa’s ecologically unspoilt wilderness areas. The national park encompasses 9,050 square km and is home to over 420 bird species and over 60 species of mammals. The park is renowned for its high leopard population and these elusive creatures are commonly seen on night drives. The park is also home to large elephant herds and there are a great number of hippo and crocodile in the river. Lions are commonly seen in South Luangwa National Park and it is the only place in the world where they are known to kill hippos. The lion prides here include up to 20 individuals. Species endemic to Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park are the Thornicroft giraffe and the Cookson’s wildebeest.

Walking Safaris – the Luangwa Valley is one of the few places in Africa where it is possible to walk in the wilderness. Under the guidance of professional guides and an armed national park scout you have the opportunity to safely discover the secrets of the African bush close up.

Game Drives – are the most popular way to discover the park and observe all the astounding wildlife and birdlife of the South Luangwa. We offer morning and afternoon game drives with our qualified guides in customised open vehicles. The afternoon drive extends as a night drive.

Night Drives – afternoon game drives continue after sunset to have the unique opportunity to observe those animals which are active only at night and to have a chance to see the larger predators such as leopards, lions and hyenas on the move and possibly hunting.

Birding Safaris – the South Luangwa is a paradise for keen bird watchers with over 420 recorded species of birds including 39 birds of prey and 47 migrant species. If you are a dedicated ornithologist, we offer specialised birding safaris with our passionate guides. Prior arrangement and private vehicle recommended.

ISLAND BUSH CAMP IS CLOSED FROM THE 1ST NOVEMBER TO THE 24TH MAY EVERY YEAR

THE CAMP WELCOMES FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGED 12 YEARS AND OLDER. DO NOTE THAT ONLY CHILDREN AGED 12 YEARS AND OLDER CAN PARTICIPATE IN WALKING SAFARIS