The Camp

Location: Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Number of Tents: 10

A magnificent view of the Zambezi River and floodplains unfolds before each of the luxurious tents at Ruckomechi Camp. Enjoy the private vista from your bed or shower—there are often hippos, elephants and other wildlife in view. These superb tents are furnished in opulent safari style with leather chairs, writing desks, heavy linens and en suite bathrooms with copper wash basins and both indoor and outdoor showers. Stone is featured prominently in the decor, and cobblestone walls divide the interior spaces. One of the highlights of the camp is its outdoor claw-footed “tub with a view” in a secluded, scenic spot for languid soaking. Common areas include a central dining tent, bar, library and lounge with comfortable sofas and oriental rugs. All of these face the escarpment and offer prime wildlife viewing. A deck with infinity pool beckons during siesta time, while a cushion-strewn stargazing deck offers a delightful evening gathering area beneath the night sky.

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Facilities & Amenities

• En suite bathroom with indoor/outdoor showers
• Family Accommodation: 2 family units, each with 2 en suite bedrooms within the same tent
• Shampoo, soap, lotion and insect repellent
• Room fan
• Tea/coffee in room
• 220v charging outlets in room
• Central safe box for valuables
• Central plunge pool
• Sleep-out platform
• Wi-Fi in room
• Laundry included
• Local drinks included (house alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
• Credit cards not accepted
• No air conditioning, hair dryer, telephone or cellular coverage

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Wildlife Viewing & Activities

This area of Mana Pools is renowned for large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and eland, especially in the dry winter when they congregate along the river. Predators such as lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog are all found in the area. Greater kudu, Burchell's zebra, impala, warthog and waterbuck frequent the surrounding plains. Birdwatchers will delight in the superb diversity of birdlife, particularly mopane woodland and riverine species with numerous local specials like collared palm-thrush, racket-tailed roller, purple-banded sunbird and black-throated wattle-eyes. Though most wildlife viewing is done in 4x4 vehicles on day and evening game drives, you will hear the grunting of hippos constantly and see them on the sandy banks of the river. Elephants love the nutritious pods of the albida trees around camp and will often wander through for a snack. Canoe and pontoon boat excursions and guided walking safaris also get you close to the wildlife that dominates the landscape at Ruckomechi Camp.

Mana Pools' wildlife moves inland during the emerald season months of November to April, and camps are also closed at this time. In the dry winter, between June and October, the lack of water within the park brings wildlife in large numbers closer to the river. The below chart illustrates major wildlife sightings experienced in the area. There are no giraffe, wildebeest or rhino found in Mana Pools. There are a number of other small mammals, birds and reptiles found here. Exact sightings will depend on seasonality and wildlife movements.

Climate

Conservation

In an effort to be as environmentally friendly as possible, Ruckomechi Camp utilizes solar power to provide hot water and lighting for each tent and the common areas.

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