Named after the famed 19th-century explorer and artist, Thomas Baines, the lodge embraces the spirit of exploration and luxury in the African wilderness.
Baines’ River Camp is an exclusive safari lodge nestled on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia’s breathtaking Lower Zambezi Valley. Offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, Baines’ invites guests to immerse themselves in unforgettable experiences, from thrilling game drives and walking safaris to world-class tiger fishing and river cruises. Named in honour of the renowned 19th-century explorer and artist, Thomas Baines, the lodge embraces the spirit of exploration and luxury in the African wilderness.
Each suite is designed for maximum comfort, featuring breathtaking river views that offer the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. Whether it’s for a wildlife safari, fishing excursion, or a serene escape in nature, Baines’ River Camp is the perfect destination for travellers seeking an authentic and luxurious African experience.
At Baines’ River Camp, we value authenticity, personalised service, and sustainability. We are committed to delivering exceptional experiences that connect our guests with the beauty of the African wilderness, while preserving the natural environment and uplifting the local community. Integrity, respect for nature, and a deep passion for wildlife conservation are at the heart of everything we do.
Tim “Bwana” Featherby was more than a man; he was a visionary whose legacy stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and tireless dedication. Known to many as “Bwana”, a term of deep respect in the African wilderness, Tim was the driving force behind the creation of Baines’ River Camp – a piece of land that, under his stewardship, was transformed into a sanctuary of luxury and tranquillity on the banks of the lower Zambezi.
Craig and Di Featherby are the passionate and committed owners of Baines’ River Camp, where they continue a proud family legacy of excellence. The camp, originally envisioned and established by Craig’s father, Tim “Bwana” Featherby, has flourished under their stewardship, with Craig and Di building upon its foundation to deliver an unparalleled safari experience. Together, they have crafted a distinctive blend of luxury, adventure, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that each guest at Baines’ River Camp experiences the beauty of the Lower Zambezi in a meaningful and unforgettable way. Their dedication to conservation and their deep love for the African wilderness is reflected in every aspect of the camp, making it a truly remarkable destination.
Camp Managers (Front-centre & Front-right)
Food and Beverage Manager (Back-left)
Maintenance Manager (Back-right)
Head Guide (Front-left)
Leonard Kalio brings over 30 years of guiding experience and an unmatched knowledge of the Lower Zambezi region, where he was born and raised. As the former head of the Lower Zambezi Guides Association, Leonard has been instrumental in setting the gold standard for guiding in the area, with all lodges now holding their guides to the standards he has defined. Leonard offers insights that go beyond the ordinary, from the smallest details of animal behaviour to the broader ecosystem. As the first qualified walking safari guide in the region, Leonard provides guests with an immersive, off-the-beaten-path adventure that is as rare as it is unforgettable. His dedication to both conservation and guest satisfaction makes him an invaluable asset to Baines’ River Camp, and a favourite among all who have the pleasure of exploring the Zambezi wilderness with him.
Chief Operations Officer
Scott Brown, as a 22-year-old, was part of the initial team who constructed the lodge. Today, he is the Chief Operations Officer at Baines’ River Camp. With years of experience as a professional hunter and guide across Southern Africa, Scott has developed an intimate understanding of the region’s ecosystems and a dedication to preserving its natural beauty. His journey from guiding guests to overseeing operations has equipped him with the expertise needed to manage the complex logistics of a luxury safari lodge.
Scott’s hands-on leadership is vital to the smooth operations of Baines’ River Camp. From guest services to conservation efforts, his comprehensive knowledge of safari logistics underpins the camp’s success. Under Scott’s direction, Baines’ River Camp continues its journey towards becoming the premier destination in the Lower Zambezi, delivering an exceptional blend of adventure, luxury, and sustainability.
Head of Reservations
Something Special - What a fantastic River Camp. We were blessed to be able to spend 2 nights at this exceptional and special place perched on the banks of the mighty Zambezi. Thanks... read more to all, and especially David, who made our stay that much more enjoyable.
Excellent safari experience - Wonderful experience. Rapha and Weston were fabulous guides and we saw a lot of wildlife and learnt a lot. The lodge is beautifully done and food plentiful and good. We... read more drove off road there from Lusaka (4WD and local knowledge essential) and actually saw a male lion on the way into the park which just set the tone for the whole experience of being a long way from the city! It was my husband's birthday during our stay and David and the team went to town decorating the dining room, supplying a lovely cake and the staff singing Happy Birthday was beautiful, thank you! It was chillier than we anticipated in the early mornings and whilst they supply nice woolly blankets for the boat I would recommend plenty of layers and a warm hat too.
A safari to remember and treasure. - The service at Baines River Camp was second to none. A personal service that made us feel special. We stayed for 3 nights. From the moment we arrived we were... read more given activities and it didn't stop until we left.
We went on 3 drives in the National Park. Just my wife and I with a spotter and driver. They did everything they could to find the animals we wished to see. On the last day we managed to get close to a Leopard as well as seeing Hunting Dogs eat a kill. Jimmy and Gibs were very knowledgeable; they were brilliant. We also had 2 night drives and a fishing expedition. The sun downers were great!
Every morning we left the camp early by speed boat to reach the National Park. It was exhilarating, passing many Hippos and Crocodiles on the way. On the return journey we also saw Elephant and Cape Buffalo.
Every time we returned to camp Stephan, Zena and David were there to greet us.
The accommodation was spotless and the food delicious.
We travelled to the camp by plane, 12 seater, and were met by our driver.
I only have positives for the place, no negatives.
Could not have been better - Really amazing experience with excellent service from start to finish. The guides were so knowledgeable and friendly with the added bonus of sunrise and sunset boat trips to and from... read more the park. Lovely food (plenty of veggie options) and very comfortable lodges completed this fabulous stay. Would highly recommend.
Family Trip - Excellent top quality venue. Highly recommended. Food, service and attention to detail was second to none.
Luxury on the lower Zambezi river - Baines provided some luxury and new adventures after a few days canoeing down the Zambezi river. The staff were welcoming and helpful; the range of options for game drives -... read more and fishing - wide and the guides were engaging and generous in sharing their knowledge and understanding of animal behaviour.
Our room was next level luxury and the venue designed to encourage relaxation after the thrill of safari.
The food was varied, fresh and delicious. The staff also ensured there were (many) options for me as a vegetarian.
Awesome Safari in Lower Zambezi - It was an amazing experience for us. We were pampered and well cared for. The whole experience was wonderful. The lodge was luxurious and beautifully built. The setting was... read more wonderful. We relaxed at our private patio, without others close by. The setting was just superb. Every meal was delicious and special. The game drives and the boat rides were very enjoyable and full of excitement. Luke and Gebres were our guides the whole time, and they are just wonderful and very knowledgeable. We saw a lot of the animals, and learned a few things about animal tracking. I highly recommend Baines.
Something Special - What a fantastic River Camp. We were blessed to be able to spend 2 nights at this exceptional and special place perched on the banks of the mighty Zambezi. Thanks... read more to all, and especially David, who made our stay that much more enjoyable.
Excellent safari experience - Wonderful experience. Rapha and Weston were fabulous guides and we saw a lot of wildlife and learnt a lot. The lodge is beautifully done and food plentiful and good. We... read more drove off road there from Lusaka (4WD and local knowledge essential) and actually saw a male lion on the way into the park which just set the tone for the whole experience of being a long way from the city! It was my husband's birthday during our stay and David and the team went to town decorating the dining room, supplying a lovely cake and the staff singing Happy Birthday was beautiful, thank you! It was chillier than we anticipated in the early mornings and whilst they supply nice woolly blankets for the boat I would recommend plenty of layers and a warm hat too.
A safari to remember and treasure. - The service at Baines River Camp was second to none. A personal service that made us feel special. We stayed for 3 nights. From the moment we arrived we were... read more given activities and it didn't stop until we left.
We went on 3 drives in the National Park. Just my wife and I with a spotter and driver. They did everything they could to find the animals we wished to see. On the last day we managed to get close to a Leopard as well as seeing Hunting Dogs eat a kill. Jimmy and Gibs were very knowledgeable; they were brilliant. We also had 2 night drives and a fishing expedition. The sun downers were great!
Every morning we left the camp early by speed boat to reach the National Park. It was exhilarating, passing many Hippos and Crocodiles on the way. On the return journey we also saw Elephant and Cape Buffalo.
Every time we returned to camp Stephan, Zena and David were there to greet us.
The accommodation was spotless and the food delicious.
We travelled to the camp by plane, 12 seater, and were met by our driver.
I only have positives for the place, no negatives.
Could not have been better - Really amazing experience with excellent service from start to finish. The guides were so knowledgeable and friendly with the added bonus of sunrise and sunset boat trips to and from... read more the park. Lovely food (plenty of veggie options) and very comfortable lodges completed this fabulous stay. Would highly recommend.
Baines’ River Camp | All Rights Reserved 2025 | Privacy Policy | Website by Temple | Wisdom Online
Baines’ River Camp | All Rights Reserved 2025 | Privacy Policy | Website by Temple | Wisdom Online
Baines’ River Camp | All Rights Reserved 2025 | Privacy Policy | Website by Temple | Wisdom Online
Tel: +27 (0)33 342 7498
Whatsapp: +27 (0)82 806 4074
1 March – 30 November
1 Mar – 30 June & 1 – 30 November
1 July – 31 October