What is African Bush Camps celebrating in 2026?
African Bush Camps is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 2006 by Zimbabwean guide and entrepreneur Beks Ndlovu, the safari company marks two decades of conservation-led travel, community partnership, and authentic safari experiences across Southern Africa.
The anniversary reflects the company’s founding purpose: to share Africa’s extraordinary landscapes while conserving wildlife and supporting the communities that call these places home.
Who founded African Bush Camps?
African Bush Camps was founded by Beks Ndlovu, a Zimbabwean guide and entrepreneur. His early life in rural Zimbabwe, where he learned to track wildlife and understand the bush, shaped the company’s approach to safari.
Today, Ndlovu continues to lead African Bush Camps as CEO, keeping conservation, community, and locally rooted hospitality at the center of the brand.
Where does African Bush Camps operate?
African Bush Camps operates luxury safari experiences across:
Botswana
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Its camps and lodges are located in some of Southern Africa’s most important wilderness areas, including:
Okavango Delta
Lower Zambezi
Hwange National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Through The Collective, African Bush Camps also connects guests with handpicked partner properties across Southern Africa, allowing for seamless extended itineraries.
How did African Bush Camps begin?
African Bush Camps began in 2006 with a single property: Somalisa Camp in Hwange National Park.
Over the past 20 years, it has grown into a collection of intentionally curated safari experiences that combine luxury, guiding excellence, conservation, and community impact.
What makes African Bush Camps different?
African Bush Camps is a proudly Black-founded and run safari company. Its model emphasizes:
Locally rooted leadership
Inclusive storytelling
Responsible tourism
Community partnership
Conservation-led hospitality
Authentic guiding
At the center of every safari are local guides who carry deep knowledge of the land, wildlife, and regional cultures.
Why are guides central to the African Bush Camps experience?
African Bush Camps places local guides at the heart of the guest experience. Many guides were raised in the regions where the camps operate, giving them a deep connection to the landscapes they interpret.
Each year, all African Bush Camps experiences close for ten days so guides can complete intensive refresher training in practical skills, theory, safety, first aid, and guest experience.
What milestones are coming in 2026 and beyond?
TALA Gin
In April 2026, African Bush Camps launches TALA Gin, a handcrafted wild sage gin created in partnership with Cape Craft Lab. Made with botanicals including wild sage, baobab, lemon bush, and African juniper, TALA is designed as a sensory extension of the safari experience.
Linyanti Legodimo
In spring 2027, African Bush Camps will debut Linyanti Legodimo, its newest Icon Experience in Botswana’s Linyanti Reserve. The camp will offer exclusive wildlife encounters, bespoke itineraries, and world-class accommodations in one of Southern Africa’s most renowned safari destinations.
Wellness in the Wild
In 2027, African Bush Camps will expand its wellness offering at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge and Thorntree River Lodge, introducing nature-based experiences designed to help guests pause, reset, and reconnect with the landscape.
What is the African Bush Camps Foundation?
The African Bush Camps Foundation is the nonprofit arm of African Bush Camps. It currently supports 39 community-led projects across Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, focused on:
Education
Conservation
Community development
Healthcare
Sustainable livelihoods
Wildlife protectio
Every guest booking contributes directly to the Foundation’s work.
What impact initiatives are planned for 2026?
In 2026, African Bush Camps Foundation will continue expanding its community impact through projects including:
Rehabilitation of Ditshiping Clinic in Botswana
A new computer lab at Khwai Primary School
A new library funded by First Capital Bank and Mosha Wellness Spa
These initiatives are designed to improve healthcare access, digital education, and long-term learning opportunities in rural communities.
What does the 20th anniversary represent?
African Bush Camps’ 20th anniversary marks both a reflection on two decades of safari excellence and the start of its next chapter. The company’s future is centered on deeper conservation impact, stronger community partnerships, and continued stewardship of Southern Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.
