Situated in a large private concession in the heart of the Zambezi Valley’s Mana Pools National Park, Wilderness Ruckomechi looks out from the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. It is a remote, picturesque place with spectacular views of the broad flowing river, the adjacent woodland and the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment.
Ten spacious and beautifully decorated en-suite tents, including two family rooms, lie beneath the ana trees, best-beloved of local elephant for their nutritious seeds. The camp's central living space includes an inviting fire pit for pleasant evenings beneath the African night skies. Other unique features include a pool which overlooks a broad sweep of river, an outdoor “bath with a view” in a secluded, scenic spot, and a romantic Star Bed by a busy waterhole.
Open 4x4 vehicles, motorised pontoon boats, canoes and good old safari boots facilitate the wildlife viewing. Wilderness Ruckomechi is open throughout the dry (winter) season.
INSIDER'S TIP: A boat cruise along the mighty Zambezi is a wonderful way to see wildlife and waterbirds from a different perspective. For the more adventurous – there’s the option of canoeing along this famous river!
Sublimely spacious tented suites are thoughtfully positioned along the iconic Zambezi’s banks, each offering unimpeded views across the river to the stunning Rift Valley Escarpment on the Zambian side.
From the well-appointed lounge area inside, to the expansive deck outside, each suite has been mindfully furnished in rich natural textures and lovely local décor pieces.
Connected to the main area by low wooden walkways – to allow free passage of the wildlife – the tented suites provide front row seats to an endlessly entertaining wildlife parade.
The two stylish and generous tented family rooms are built on low wooden decks offering a veranda with broad vistas of the Zambezi River. With the same comforts as the standard tents, each comprise two en-suite bedrooms.
Bar, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available)
Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Bird Watching, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Night Drives, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided)
One of the many things we are most proud to share with our guests are the wide open spaces and amazing viewing encounters with wild animals in their natural habitat. Explore the varying habitats within our private concession, as well as the National Park, accessing a diversity of habitats, and therefore a wide range of wildlife which resides in each one.
Mana Pools National Park is a remote, astonishing place that is best experienced on foot. Learn to listen for alarm calls as you venture through the wilderness led by a professional guide. This fantastic way of exploring the surrounding bush, looking out for the spoor and tracks of animals, often heralds many exciting sightings.
For the more adventurous, there is the thrilling experience of canoeing along this famous river, allowing for a different perspective of the area.
* Water levels permitting.
Enjoy a magical sunset while cruising this amazing stretch of the Zambezi River in search of hippo, crocodile, elephants and colourful birdlife.
* Water levels permitting.
Bream (tilapia), barbel (catfish) and tigerfish are some of the more common fish found at Mana Pools. Catch and release is practised at all Wilderness camps and keen fishermen are always encouraged to bring their own equipment as we only carry basic fishing tackle.
There is no better way of falling asleep than being serenaded by the sounds of nature while you gaze up at the starry skies of Africa.
* Weather permitting and operated subject to the discretion of the Camp Manager.
The multiplicity of fantastic birdlife 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.