Set on the banks of the hippo-filled Zambezi River, Ruckomechi Camp is situated on the western boundary of Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe. Hidden in a large grove of acacia and mahogany trees, Ruckomechi's luxurious tents and main camp overlook both the Zambezi and the mountains of the Great Rift Valley beyond the river in Zambia.

During the day you are spoilt for choice with the option of 4x4 game drives or guided bush walks along with boating, canoeing and fishing. If you just want to relax, then slip into the plunge pool or relax in the acacia grove with a book but you won't sit still for long as this area isn't a World Heritage Site for nothing: predators including lions, wild dogs, leopard, and cheetah are often sighted, large concentrations of buffalo and elephant can be found along the river's edge and the bird watching, given the eclectic mix of habitats, is sensational.

Little Ruckomechi Tented Camp

As one of only a handful of lodges scattered around Mana Pools National Park, Little Ruckomechi offers a true wilderness experience within the pristine Zambezi Valley and is ideal for adventure seekers looking to have plenty of this corner of northern Zimbabwe all to themselves. Mana Pools remains largely under-explored despite its abundant wildlife and beautifully diverse landscapes.

Located within the private Ruckomechi Concession, Little Ruckomechi is set close to the life-giving Zambezi River under the shade of overhanging ana trees – a favourite delicacy among elephants who love their protein-rich pods. This tented lodge is exclusive and luxurious, sporting an open-air design, a calming safari colour palate, rich natural textures and beautiful, local décor pieces.

Highlights

• Fantastic location in the heart of Mana Pools National Park
• Spectacular setting overlooking the Zambezi River
• Wild & remote environment
• Luxury tented rooms with river views
• Renowned for its large elephant & buffalo herds
• Sensational bird watching all year round

Activities

• BOAT EXCURSIONS
• CANOEING
• FISHING
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKS
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS

Rooms

Standard Twin Chalet

Each solar-powered, luxury canvas tent opens onto a wooden deck with gorgeous views of the Zambezi River and passing wildlife. The spacious interiors are separated into a sleeping area with a writing desk and a large comfortable chair and a bathroom area with both a large indoor and outdoor shower.

The Family Tent features an extra bedroom and toilet to accommodate a family of four travelling together. Romantics and honeymooners should book one of the two Honeymoon Suites - be sure to try your alfresco bathtub with a view.

Others may prefer the simplicity of a 'sleep-out' platform, which is located a short drive away in a spectacular setting, accommodating between four and eight people each. You spend the night either on an actual bed or in a comfortable bed roll, with basic ablution facilities nearby. A highly qualified guide is on standby to ensure your safety at all times and in case you need assistance during the night.

Facilities

The main area of the camp is connected to the tents by wooden walkways and has a number of separate areas to provide a sense of space.

There is an airy, open-sided lounge and bar area with a selection of reading material and a dining area with a long dining table and lovely views.

These living areas extend onto a large wooden deck set on the banks of the Zambezi River. The deck further extends over the river to a comfortable stargazing deck, ideal for watching the sun sink below the horizon and the stars appear.

The separate swimming pool deck features a rim-flow pool with excellent views of the river and the animals and birds that frequent it.

Cool off in the pool or relax in one of the hammocks or day beds, keeping a pair of binoculars close at hand.

Dining

Wake up to a light breakfast before setting out on an early morning game drive and return for a hearty brunch later that morning.

Lunch and afternoon tea are also served between game-viewing activities and dinner - a 3-course affair - is enjoyed in the thatched dining room or outside under the star-filled sky.