Who owns African bush camps?

Answered by Michael Wilson

African bush camps are owned by a variety of individuals and organizations, each with their own unique motivations and interests. These owners range from local communities and conservation organizations to private companies and individuals who have a passion for wildlife and preserving the natural beauty of Africa.

One category of bush camp owners is the local communities who live in and around the wilderness areas of Africa. Many of these communities have been living in harmony with nature for centuries and have a deep understanding and respect for the land. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards community-based tourism, where local communities are directly involved in the ownership and management of bush camps. This empowers the communities, provides them with a sustainable source of income, and incentivizes them to protect the wildlife and natural resources in their areas.

Conservation organizations also play a significant role in owning and managing bush camps in Africa. These organizations are often dedicated to the preservation of specific wildlife species or habitats and use the revenue generated from their bush camps to fund their conservation efforts. By owning and operating these camps, they can not only protect the land but also educate visitors about the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism.

Private companies and individuals also own bush camps in Africa. These owners are often passionate about wildlife and nature and want to share their love for the African wilderness with others. They may have invested in the camps as a business venture or as a personal retreat, but their underlying goal is usually to contribute to the conservation efforts in Africa and provide visitors with an authentic safari experience.

Now, let me share a personal experience to illustrate the ownership of African bush camps. During my years as a professional guide, I have had the privilege of working with different bush camps across Africa, each with its own unique ownership structure. One particular camp I worked at was owned by a local community in the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The community members were actively involved in the decision-making process and the day-to-day operations of the camp. It was inspiring to see how their ownership of the camp gave them a sense of pride and responsibility for the conservation of the area.

The ownership of African bush camps is diverse and includes local communities, conservation organizations, and private individuals and companies. Each owner has their own motivations and interests, but they all share a common goal of preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of Africa for future generations to enjoy.