On the western boundary of the Mana Pools National Park, nestled in a large grove of Acacia and Mahogany trees, Ruckomechi Camp overlooks the Zambezi River with a superb view of the mountains of Africa's Great Rift Valley in the distance. The camp accommodates guests in 10 thatched chalets, with en-suite bathroom that includes a shower, toilet and basin. There is a honeymoon suite that overlooks the Zambezi River, as well as one of the camp?s favourite facilities: an outdoor "bath with a view"! The central dining, pub and lounge area is under cool thatch on the river's edge, facing the escarpment. Wildlife is excellent in the area, and Ruckomechi offers diverse game activities, including wildlife-viewing drives in 4x4 vehicles, boats, canoes, and fishing. Daily nature walks are available with a professional guide. Kudu, zebra, impala and waterbuck can be seen on the surrounding plains, and elephant take advantage of the plentiful Albida (Ana) trees in the area. Predators including lion, wild dog, leopard, and cheetah, are often sighted, and large concentrations of buffalo can be found along the river's edges. Bird watching tends to be very good, with the river attracting large numbers of waterbirds.
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
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.