Wilderness Chikwenya overlooks a beautiful stretch of the Zambezi River in the eastern section of Mana Pools National Park, one of the most remote and beautiful areas in Zimbabwe. Views extend over open floodplains down to the legendary river and across to the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment, while stretching inland behind Wilderness Chikwenya are the dense woodlands so characteristic of the area. The canvas tents are set on low wooden decks and linked to the raised main area by wooden walkways.
A lounge, dining and bar area offer a sanctuary of hospitality and relaxation, while a pool deck and fire place offer alternate spaces to take in the scenery and passing wildlife. The area is renowned for its large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and eland, especially in winter when they concentrate along the river – these and a variety of predators can be seen from camp.
INSIDER'S TIP: Protein-rich albida pods attract many species, particularly elephant, during the dry season.
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Activities and Services
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessEnjoy the extraordinary beauty of the area from the comfort of your spacious room
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessFamily-style dining is a feature of the relaxed atmosphere at Chikwenya
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe lounge area evokes an atmosphere of a bygone safari era
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessElephants feed on the nutritious ana pods which occur in abundance around Chikwenya
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessLuxuriate in the spaciousness of a Chikwenya guest tent
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessA bathroom with a view goes without saying
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessLuxurious amenities in the guest bathrooms
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessRelax on the sunken deck overlooking the Zambezi River
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessHigh tea overlooking the floodplain and Zambezi River
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessDelicious brunch offerings are a safari institution
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessWatch the wildlife go by from a swing chair in the main area
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessAlfresco dining takes full advantage of Chikwenya's setting
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessDinner overlooking the Zambezi River
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessFamily-style dining overlooking the river
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya's pool with a view
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessElephants in the area seek out the nutritious albida pods
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe Chikwenya Pride comprises three adult males, two lionesses and a single young cub
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessBoating on the Zambezi delivers impressive game sightings
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessSunset over the Rift Valley escarpment
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya is surrounded by a dense forest of albida and Natal mahogany trees
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessBuffalo are seen in impressive numbers in the area
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya is a photographer's paradise
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe confluence of the Sapi and Zambezi rivers
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya looks out over an open floodplain and the broad Zambezi River
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessBoating is a wonderful way of seeing amazing wildlife
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe Chikwenya Pride relaxing across the Sapi River from camp
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya lies at the confluence of the Sapi and Zambezi rivers
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe area is known for its impressive eland herds
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessDay and night game drives provide exclusive access to a spectacular stretch of the Zambezi River and its typical Mana Pools woodlands.
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessElephant love this area for its abundant food sources
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessClassic Mana Pools woodlands scene
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessElephant are regularly seen reaching high into the trees for food
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessPlayful young elephant
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessCould Chikwenya be the most photogenic Wilderness concession in Africa?
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessWaterbuck are seen regularly around camp
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessImpala herd close to Chikwenya
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe Chikwenya Pride's single young cub is the star of the show
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessHeading to the Zambezi for a drink and a swim
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessWatching baboons is endlessly entertaining
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessEarly morning sighting of a side-striped jackal
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessOne of the Chikwenya males
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessElephants are regularly seen swimming across the Zambezi to a nearby island
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessThe Chikwenya Pride's little cub takes every opportunity to explore her world
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessPlayful Chikwenya cub with mom
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya lions resting on the bank of the Sapi River
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya cub learning how to stalk impala
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessChikwenya male and female with their cub
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: WildernessBonding with Chikwenya Pride dad
Wilderness Chikwenya epitomises a true bush camp experience, with the personal service, intimacy and warmth our tented camps are renowned for. Elegant and spacious tents rest in the shade of a grove of towering indigenous trees, inviting elephants, stately eland, and an array of birds to the camp. Decorated in light tones of cream and beige, Chikwenya exudes serenity.
There are two spacious tented family units, each comprising one main bedroom with a king-sized bed and one twin-bedded room, both with their own en-suite facilities. Each unit has its own separate entrance with a shared outdoor deck and sunken seating area – the perfect space from which to soak in the magnificent views. Each unit has a shared private plunge pool to complete the picture-perfect setting.
Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Night Drives, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Day and night game drives provide exclusive access to a spectacular stretch of the Zambezi River, its typical Mana Pools woodlands, the Sapi River and fertile floodplains.
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
It’s all about experiencing Africa on foot: along the Zambezi River, amongst the riverine vegetation, and under the shady canopy of albida trees. Venture through the wilderness in the safe hands of a professional guide. Look out for animal tracks, stop to smell the plants, take the time to admire the smaller often unnoticed animals.
Boating is a wonderful way of seeing large numbers of waterbirds and wildlife attracted to the river and seasonal pans.
* Water levels permitting.
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Credit: Wilderness
For the adventurous, canoeing down one of Africa’s mightiest rivers is a must.
* Water levels permitting.
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Wilderness ChikwenyaCredit: Wilderness
Relax and enjoy the spectacular beauty of this stretch of the famous Zambezi River, with breathtaking sunsets over the African horizon.
* Water levels permitting.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Wilderness Little Ruckomechi | Mana Pools National Park
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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Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessElephant wander through camp in search of their favourite albida pods
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessThe camp takes advantage of the balmy weather to dine al fresco whenever possible
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessGuest tent interior at Little Ruckomechi
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessVibrantly coloured southern carmine bee-eater
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessCheetah may be seen while out on a game drive
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessWild dog seen on bush walk
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessYoung lion on the floodplain near Little Ruckomechi
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessElephant love the area for its abundant food sources
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessDining area and lounge under canvas
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessLittle Ruckomechi’s scenic location epitomises Mana Pools National Park in all its abundance
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessGet close to nature amongst the iconic albida trees that characterise the area
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessPlunge pool with a view
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessAn authentic, exclusive bush camp with an intimate “home from home” style
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessAt Little Ruckomechi 'bush TV' competes with extraordinary views of the Zambezi River
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessThe lounge looks over the floodplain towards the Zambezi River
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessDouble vanity basins in a guest tent
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessLooking out from the en-suite shower in a guest tent
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessThe Zambezi River is your constant companion at night
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessGuest tent interior showing double vanity basins
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessGuest tent exterior
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessWriting table in guest tent
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessWake up to expansive views over the Zambezi River and escarpment
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessGuest tent interior
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessGuest tent interior
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessDelicious meals are the order of the day
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessLittle Ruckomechi's chef caters for a wide range of tastes
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessMouthwatering chocolate-covered profiteroles served at high tea
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessFresh produce is served with every meal
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessThe team at Little Ruckomechi can't wait to meet you!
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessHigh tea is a treat for all the senses
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessMeals are served al fresco whenever possible
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessA special gimbal head and stabiliser mount are fitted on the Little Ruckomechi vehicle
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: Wilderness Little Ruckomechi game viewer with gimbal head and stabiliser mount
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessElephant making the most of the welcome Zambezi River water
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessBuffalo grazing near Little Ruckomechi Camp
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessIconic sunset scene on the Zambezi River in front of camp
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessElephant are daily visitors
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessCritically Endangered wild dog are seen on the private Ruckomechi Concession
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessA healthy pride of lion has made the Ruckomechi Concession home
Wilderness Little RuckomechiCredit: WildernessLionesses 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.
Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Night Drives, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
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.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
The majestic architecture of this intimate lodge has always been a signature of the property. The detailed stonework and imposing proportions of Great Zimbabwe form the main reference point for the lodge design. Interiors of the lodge reflect original references to the local Shangaan culture, artfully combined with contemporary forms and styles inspired by these African patterns and shapes.
With eight luxury suites, each with its own luxury plunge pool, Singita Pamushana Lodge makes for an unforgettable luxury safari but its work with the non-profit Malilangwe Trust and its enduring purpose to contribute to the conservation of the 130,000-acre wildlife reserve in which it sits sets a new benchmark for meaningful travel experiences.
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Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge Lounge
Singita Pamushana Lodge Lounge & Fireplace
Singita Pamushana Lodge Deck
Singita Pamushana Lodge Deck & Bar
Singita Pamushana Lodge Deck
Singita Pamushana Lodge Pool
Singita Pamushana Lodge Conservation Room
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge
The suites offer the ultimate luxury in a truly African setting. All master bedrooms feature en suite bathroom and shower, as well as an outdoor shower, private plunge pool, double-sided fireplace, mini-bar and fridge, room safe, air conditioning, overhead fans, private lounge, direct dial telephones and game viewing deck with Swarovski spotting scope.
The suites offer the ultimate luxury in a truly African setting. All master bedrooms feature en suite bathroom and shower, as well as an outdoor shower, private plunge pool, double-sided fireplace, mini-bar and fridge, room safe, air conditioning, overhead fans, private lounge, direct dial telephones and game viewing deck with Swarovski spotting scope.
The suites offer the ultimate luxury in a truly African setting. All master bedrooms feature en suite bathroom and shower, as well as an outdoor shower, private plunge pool, double-sided fireplace, mini-bar and fridge, room safe, air conditioning, overhead fans, private lounge, direct dial telephones and game viewing deck with Swarovski spotting scope.
The suites offer the ultimate luxury in a truly African setting. All master bedrooms feature en suite bathroom and shower, as well as an outdoor shower, private plunge pool, double-sided fireplace, mini-bar and fridge, room safe, air conditioning, overhead fans, private lounge, direct dial telephones and game viewing deck with Swarovski spotting scope.
Malilangwe House
Set in Zimbabwe’s remote Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, this elegant exclusive-use home is perched alongside Singita Pamushana Lodge on a sandstone ridge and offers inimitable views of the surrounding landscape and beautiful Malilangwe Dam below.
Designed for families and friends, this intimate offering comprises five expansive bedrooms, each with its own private deck, that all flow seamlessly into the home’s convivial living areas, interactive kitchen and chic ‘bar-deli’ – and onto various outdoor decks and a large rim-flow pool with panoramic views.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Gym (nearby), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Pool, Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Viewing Hide, Game Walks, High Tea, Massages, Rhino Tracking, Safaris, Tennis Court, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Massages, Tennis Court, Walks (Guided)
Daily game drives with professional guides and trackers provide the perfect opportunity to get up close to Africa’s incredible animals, while late afternoon drives reveal the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa. Our game drives are all conducted in state-of-the-art Land Cruisers, each accommodating a maximum of six guests. During your stay at Singita Pamushana Lodge you are likely to spot a wide variety of wildlife including white and black rhino, Lichtenstein hartebeest, sable, nyala, klipspringer, cheetah, wild dog, lion, leopard, and an abundance of bird life.
Walking safaris are an incredible way to experience the bush up close and personal. Your expert guide and tracker will accompany you as you track animals on foot through the wilderness and explore the magnificent plants and landscapes around you.
Water is a source of life and beauty, and no place is this more apparent than in the remote tranquility of the African bush. Fishing at the dam below the lodge is the ideal way to experience this wonder firsthand. Drop in a lure and see what bounty the day will bring, while your guide and tracker show you how the locals catch fish using plants found in the area. Singita Pamushana boasts excellent game fishing throughout the year including Tiger Fish, Bass, Bream (tilapia), and Catfish.
There is perhaps no more transcendent experience than looking up at a full sky of sparkling stars. Man has had a love affair with the nighttime sky for centuries and with very little pollution and no city lights to detract from the stars, your view of the heavens here will be crystal clear – nothing between you and the vast African sky above.
Experience a game of tennis as you never would have before.
Enjoy your time on court whilst being surrounded by the beauty of the African wilderness. Cool down with rewarding refreshments and a dip in the nearby swimming pool.
Community tours provide guests at Singita with the opportunity to gain insight into community life and the local Shangaan culture. You will be able to witness firsthand the positive impact of the thriving development programmes in place and meet the fascinating people who live in these communities.
The San Bushmen are one of the earth’s oldest continuous cultures on earth, the original hunter-gatherers, their way of life is a mirror into our past. Take an educational tour to view San Bushmen rock art dating back tens of thousands of years and learn about their remarkable way of life.
As one of Africa’s most influential buyers of wine, Singita’s cellars are home to some of the most sought-after private reserves and vintage wines the continent has to offer.
Whether you are a connoisseur or just enjoy the occasional glass of wine, our experienced sommeliers delight in introducing guests to a vast selection of varietals from all over the world.
Through Singita Premier Wine Direct guests may purchase wines from our cellars: either to be taken home at the end of their trip or conveniently delivered to their door. As an addition to cellar purchases, we have secured allocations of highly limited, sought-after wines, including ‘Icons’, ‘Single Vineyard’ and ‘Limited Release’ wines, directly from leading wineries in South Africa.
Stored in temperature-controlled cellars, these wines are unlikely to be available anywhere else.
Offering the luxury of unfiltered time and space, the African wilderness is the ultimate setting for complete unwinding, while the continent’s healing energies are encapsulated in rituals that nourish and nurture.
At Singita, our enduring purpose to restore the land and its wildlife extends to offering healing experiences to our guests at every touchpoint. The dedicated treatments in our massage spaces tap into the profound benefits of indigenous wisdoms and essential oils that relax, replenish and revive. Each tailor-made therapy can be customised and timed to preference, ensuring a completely personalised experience.
The massage menu has been designed to immerse guests into their beautiful surroundings, and all treatments incorporate that peace and vibrant energy to revitalise and nourish the soul.
A fully equipped fitness centre is available for guests’ convenience.
The African sunset is an occasion worth celebrating and the dam below the lodge is the perfect spot to enjoy a gorgeous sunset cruise while sipping refreshing sundowners and to watch the magnificent wildlife as it comes down to sip from the dam.
Guests at Singita Pamushana can enjoy a swim at the swimming pool located at the main lodge area. All of the guest suites also come complete with their own private plunge pools.
Singita Boutique & Gallery in the main lodge area.
You will find a dedicated yoga mat in your suite as well as a card to guide you through a relaxing sequence in the privacy of your room or on your deck. All our lodges also offer Vinyasa and Yin yoga practices with trained practitioners – simply ask our front-of-house staff to check availability, then book and join a session.
Known for seamlessly synchronising movement with breath, Vinyasa is a flowing style of yoga that moves from one posture to the next using muscular engagement. Yin is a meditative practice focusing on passive, long-held poses – often with the support of props like blocks and bolsters. It helps to improve flexibility, reduce stress, quieten the mind and foster mindfulness.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife