Mana Pools National Game Park, Zimbabwe
Wilderness Ruckomechi Camp
Camp on the Elephants' Favourite Bank of the Zambezi River
Set in Zimbabwe by the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, Wilderness Ruckomechi Camp is located by the elephants’ much-loved albida trees, favoured for their pods. This makes the camp ideal for viewing these massive mammals without even having to leave the lodge.
From the camp’s position on the banks of the river, you can see the Great Rift Valley on the opposite side of the Zambezi, a view which you can take in from the comfortable star-gazing deck. Each of the ten tented rooms have indoor and outdoor showers. And there’s a dining and lounge area, plus an infinity pool for cooling off after a safari.
When it comes to exploring the land, there are a variety of options. You can discover the area on foot on a walking safari, or take to the water for a cruise in a nine-seat pontoon, six-seat speed boat or even a canoe. Naturally, game drives leave every morning and afternoon, too.
Birds are prevalent, with species including the western banded snake-eagle, three-banded courser, Arnot’s chat, African golden oriole, and Meve’s starling. Other types of wildlife you can see on safari from Wilderness Ruckomechi Camp (aside from the resident elephants) include leopard, hippopotamuses, Burchell’s zebra, lion and buffalo.
Highlights
Glide through the water and spot hippopotamus in the distance, alongside crocodiles and herds of elephants moving along the water’s edge
Spot goliath herons, Amur falcons and the rare shoebill stork within Akagera’s stunning wetlands
Sleep on a raised platform under the magnificent African sky lulled by far-off lion roars
Go on a private walking safari focusing on the fascinating intricacies of the bush and discovering the world of birds, indigenous flora and the vital roles of insects
Enjoy a bush pancake breakfast served from a traditional grill over a mopane wood fire
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Wilderness Ruckomechi Camp with
Hwange National Park
Somalisa Camp is located within a private concession in the heart of Hwange National Park. Nestled on an acacia island on the edge of an ancient seasonal flood plain, the camp is the perfect place from which to witness the huge elephant herds for which this area is famous.
The camp consists of seven luxury tents with gauze sliding doors and plush furnishings. There is a glass wood burning stove for chilly evenings and floor fans for hot summer days. There is a freestanding copper bath tub in each tent, as well as indoor and outdoor showers and a flush toilet.
The main camp decking area is home to a lounge and dining area and a small splash pool that overlooks a natural watering home, known as elephant pool. The camp is powered by solar and has a sewage purifying system which means it can recyle 80% of its water.
