Pure Mana Pools - Semi Permanent Camps - 2018

Kavinga Safari Camp is located in a private concession within the southern boundary of Mana Pools National Park. The camp overlooks the dry Ruckomechi riverbed and is set against the extraordinary backdrop of the Zambezi Escarpment.

We offer 7 comfortable raised tents built on the edge of a cliff, with a view of the rising sun above the magnificent Zambezi Valley floor.

The herds of buffalo that drink at the neighbouring Chitake spring are frequent visitors to the area, as they traverse the valley in search of grazing. Most evenings, herds of elephant gather in the riverbed, providing a wonderful wildlife spectacle. Shyer species, like leopard, civet and genet, visit the pan right below the camp under the cover of darkness.

If it's adventure you seek, be it walking, tracking, exploring the hills and river systems, studying the birds or just relaxing in camp taking in the view, Kavinga Safari Camp will offer you that "Unique Experience in an Untamed Wilderness".

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• Units
• Facilities

Aerial View of Camp Credit: Clyde Elgar An aerial view of camp and the Ruckomechi riverbed

Kavinga in the wet season! Credit: Clyde Elgar A view of the pan in the wet season.

Buffalo drinking at the pan Credit: Clyde Elgar A herd of buffalo quenching their thirst at the pan.

Photographic Hide Credit: Clyde Elgar Side view of photographic hide at the pan.

Baby Ele in the Pan Credit: Clyde Elgar A baby elephant getting muddy in the pan.

Bedroom Credit: Clyde Elgar Looking in to one of the tents

Dinner on the Upper Deck Credit: Clyde Elgar Dinner time on the upper deck

Looking Out of the Tent Credit: Clyde Elgar Looking out of the tent towards the riverbed

Walkway to the Hide Credit: Clyde Elgar The walkway to the hide

Elephants Enjoying the Pan Credit: Clyde Elgar A herd of elephant enjoying the pan

Your Gameviewer Awaits Credit: Clyde Elgar A gameviewer waiting for guests

Overlooking the Pan Credit: Clyde Elgar Looking out from the living area

Outside View of Rooms Credit: Clyde Elgar Outside view of rooms from pathway

Living Area Credit: Clyde Elgar View of the lounge area looking in

Watching Eles from the Pan Credit: Clyde Elgar Watching a herd of elephant from inside the hide.

Happy Pride Credit: Clyde Elgar Lioness with her cubs

Mum and Cubs Credit: Clyde Elgar Cubs keeping a watchful eye while Mum sleeps

Elvis Growls Credit: Clyde Elgar A youngster nuzzling Elvis the resident male

Elvis and his Cubs Credit: Clyde Elgar The resident male relaxing in the riverbed with his cubs.

Wild Dog and Impala Kill Credit: Clyde Elgar A wild dog pulls in their recent impala kill from the pan

Beautiful Visitor Credit: Clyde Elgar A gorgeous visiting male lion resting in the riverbed

Beautiful Brothers Credit: Clyde Elgar Two male lions greeting each other in the riverbed

Time to Patrol Credit: Clyde Elgar Two beautiful boys in the early evening light

Guests Arriving Credit: Clyde Elgar Waiting on the airstrip for guests to arrive

Wild Dog, Elephant and the Escarpment Credit: Clyde Elgar Wild Dog with elephant in the background set against the beautiful escarpment

Impala in Flight Credit: Clyde Elgar A herd of impala on the move

Kavinga Camp from the Riverbed Credit: Clyde Elgar A view of camp looking up from the Ruckomechi Riverbed

Reception and Bar Area Credit: Clyde Elgar The reception and bar area looking from the lounge

Dining Area Credit: Clyde Elgar Breakfast dining area on the patio

Living Area Credit: Clyde Elgar The lounge area

Ensuite Bathroom Credit: Clyde Elgar Looking into the bathroom with the dressing area behind you

Bedroom View Credit: Clyde Elgar One of the bedrooms looking towards the verandah

Charles Greeting Guests Credit: Clyde Elgar Charles greeting guests with a nice cold towel

Alway Cheerful Charles Credit: Clyde Elgar Charles waiting to hand guests his wonderfully cold towels

Majestic Eland Credit: Clyde Elgar Eland quenching their thirst at the pan

Thirsty Lionesses Credit: Clyde Elgar A closeup of lionesses drinking at the pan

Always Watching Credit: Clyde Elgar Two lionesses at the pan drinking

Lion in Camp Credit: Clyde Elgar Two lionesses having a nap by one of the tents

No Need for a Nightdrive Credit: Clyde Elgar A lioness relaxing on the path to the gameviewer

Guess a Gamedrive is Unnecessary Credit: Clyde Elgar Two lionesses relaxing on the lawn in camp

Watching You, Watching Me Credit: Clyde Elgar Young baboon watching photographers in the hide

Drinking in the Dark Credit: Clyde Elgar A beautiful leopard drinking from the pan at night

Talk to the Tail Credit: Clyde Elgar A young leopard watching another approach the pan

Elephant Trail Credit: Clyde Elgar A family of elephant making their way to the diggings in the Ruckomechi Riverbed

Playful Ushingi Credit: Clyde Elgar A beautiful female leopard posing for the paparazzi

Aerial View Credit: Clyde Elgar Aerial view of camp from the Ruckomechi Riverbed

Aerial View of Camp Credit: Clyde Elgar Aerial view of camp looking towards the Ruckomechi Riverbed

Aerial View Credit: Clyde Elgar Overhead aerial view of camp

Aerial View of Camp Credit: Clyde Elgar Aerial view of camp from behind looking towards the Ruckomechi Riverbed

Entrance to Reception Credit: Clyde Elgar Walking into the reception from the parking pathway

Raised tented chalets

Each tent has been designed with an emphasis on privacy and is surrounded by insect repellent gauze, allowing the air to circulate and contributing to maximum coolness. Inside each tent are 2 ¾ comfortable beds and an ensuite bathroom with a dressing area. In front, a verandah falls in line with the edge of the cliff giving a feeling of infinite space.

Property Facilities

Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle Available, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Services

Airport Shuttle (Complimentary)

Come walk with Stretch Ferreira, owner, professional safari guide with over 37 years of experience, and a reputation as one of the finest guides in Africa. Described as a “living legend” Stretch has been guiding walking safaris in Mana Pools for most of his life, and has a special affinity with the animals of the area.

Stretch's Goliath Camp is Luxury Tented Camp is situated in a prime shaded position on the banks of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park. Comprising of 7 Large East-African style tents. Reminiscent of an “Out of Africa” era, the tented camp blends seamlessly into the bush whilst still offering guests a luxurious experience. The tents are furnished with wrought Iron and teak, beds with comfortable hotel standard mattresses, high-quality linen and mosquitos nets to provide for a well-deserved rest after many miles of walking. En-suit bathrooms with, flush toilets, running water and hot out door showers.

Three course dinners accompanied by imported wine are served under the stars in our unique outdoor dining room.

There is a separate bar and lounge area for early morning coffee & snack, al fresco lunch time dinning, afternoon teas and braai nights.

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• Rooms
• Facilities

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Credit: Stretch Ferreira Safaris Sitting with the giants of Mana

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Credit: Stretch Ferreira Safaris River view

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Credit: Stretch Ferreira Safaris Tranquil communal lounge area

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Credit: Stretch Ferreira Safaris Tent with a view

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Credit: Stretch Ferreira Safaris Fresh daily cooked meals

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Credit: Stretch Ferreira Safari Walking with Stretch Ferreira

Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp Stretch Ferreira Safaris - Goliath Camp

Four King bedded tents (twin conversion option) , bathroom en-suite - flush toilets and running water, outdoor shower, solar fans and lighting

All our tents convert twin bed options, bathroom en-suite - flush toilets and running water, outdoor shower, solar fans and lighting

King/Twin bedded tent with option to add an additional single bed, bathroom en-suite - flush toilets and running water, outdoor shower, solar fans and lighting

Ideal for honeymooners or accommodation for 3 guests.

Property Facilities

Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Secure Parking

Room Facilities

En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Outside Shower, Shower

Services

Airport Shuttle (Complimentary)

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi offers an intimate Mana Pools experience, in the style of the bygone days of safari, without detracting in any way from the wildlife experience. The shady ana trees and views of the Zambezi River and the Zambian foothills beyond are some of the hallmarks of this region, and Wilderness Little Ruckomechi provides all of them.

This seasonal camp (winter/dry season only) offers an authentic safari experience through a mix of game drives, boating and guided nature walks, adding to the sense of exploring an untouched wilderness area.

INSIDER'S TIP: A guided nature walk is a thrilling way of exploring the surrounding bush and often heralds many exciting sightings.

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• Activities and Services

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Elephant wander through camp in search of their favourite albida pods

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi The camp takes advantage of the balmy weather to dine al fresco whenever possible

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Guest tent interior at Little Ruckomechi

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Vibrantly coloured southern carmine bee-eater

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Cheetah may be seen while out on a game drive

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Wild dog seen on bush walk

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Young lion on the floodplain near Little Ruckomechi

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Elephant love the area for its abundant food sources

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Dining area and lounge under canvas

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Little Ruckomechi’s scenic location epitomises Mana Pools National Park in all its abundance

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Get close to nature amongst the iconic albida trees that characterise the area

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Plunge pool with a view

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi An authentic, exclusive bush camp with an intimate “home from home” style

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi At Little Ruckomechi 'bush TV' competes with extraordinary views of the Zambezi River

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi The lounge looks over the floodplain towards the Zambezi River

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Double vanity basins in a guest tent

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Looking out from the en-suite shower in a guest tent

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi The Zambezi River is your constant companion at night

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Guest tent interior showing double vanity basins

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Guest tent exterior

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Writing table in guest tent

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Wake up to expansive views over the Zambezi River and escarpment

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Guest tent interior

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Guest tent interior

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Delicious meals are the order of the day

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Little Ruckomechi's chef caters for a wide range of tastes

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Mouthwatering chocolate-covered profiteroles served at high tea

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Fresh produce is served with every meal

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi The team at Little Ruckomechi can't wait to meet you!

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi High tea is a treat for all the senses

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Meals are served al fresco whenever possible

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi A special gimbal head and stabiliser mount are fitted on the Little Ruckomechi vehicle

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Little Ruckomechi game viewer with gimbal head and stabiliser mount

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Elephant making the most of the welcome Zambezi River water

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Buffalo grazing near Little Ruckomechi Camp

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Iconic sunset scene on the Zambezi River in front of camp

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Elephant are daily visitors

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Critically Endangered wild dog are seen on the private Ruckomechi Concession

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi A healthy pride of lion has made the Ruckomechi Concession home

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi Lionesses bonding

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi

Perfect for smaller groups or families, Wilderness Little Ruckomechi is a beautiful and intimate camp which celebrates one of Zimbabwe’s great wilderness areas. Built on low wooden decks, the airy and elegant en-suite tents delightfully embody the romance of a bygone age.

Property Facilities

Bar, Pool, Private Vehicle Available

Room Facilities

Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah

Wilderness Little Ruckomechi – Game Drives Wilderness Little Ruckomechi – Guided Nature Walks Wilderness Little Ruckomechi – Canoeing * Wilderness Little Ruckomechi – River Cruise * Wilderness Little Ruckomechi – Fishing Wilderness Little Ruckomechi – Birding

Enjoy a game drive, early in the morning or late afternoon, in an area renowned for its large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and eland; along with lion, leopard and wild dog. Take in a coffee break or a sundowner at a scenic spot while your knowledgeable guide regales you with tales of safari bushlore.

Mana Pools National Park is a remote, beautiful place that is best experienced on foot, led by a professional guide. One of the best parts of a walking safari is going slowly enough to appreciate the little things you may miss from a vehicle. Nothing gets you closer to the landscape than a guided walk through the wilderness for an intimate look at nature.

This exciting experience will see you fit in some 'breath-taking' exercise as you observe the river at hippo eye-level.

* Water levels permitting.

A cruise down this magnificent stretch of the Zambezi River takes in the life in, on, and around this iconic river. Watch birds, hippo, elephant, and perhaps even a colourful carmine colony against the spectacular backdrop of an African sunset.

* Water levels permitting.

Bream (tilapia), and barbel (catfish) are some of the more common fish found at Mana Pools. Fishing is on a catch and release basis, with keen fishermen encouraged to bring their own equipment as we only carry basic fishing tackle. Try your hand at hooking a tigerfish as you drift down the Zambezi.

The incredible birdlife, colourful and lively, can turn anyone into a passionate bird-watcher. The multiplicity of avian life in the area includes three-banded courser, western banded snake-eagle, Arnot's chat, green-capped eremomela, African golden oriole, Lilian’s lovebird, Böhm's spinetail and Meve's starling.