With stunning views over the surrounding river, mountains and woodland, Ruckomechi blends into the surroundings to make you feel closer to nature.
Location
In the heart of Zimbabwe's Mana Pool’s National Park, on the banks of the world-famous Zambezi River lies Ruckomechi Camp. It enjoys stunning views over the surrounding river, mountains and woodland, and due to the remote location, has an abundance of wildlife living nearby. Environmentally friendly, Ruckomechi makes every effort to keep its carbon footprint as light as possible, supplying hot water and electricity via solar power. The camp can be accessed by light aircraft - the closest airstrip is Mana West and is about 20 minutes from the camp.
Rooms
Accommodation comprises ten spacious tented suites, including two family units, each with en‑suite facilities that blend indoor and outdoor showers, large canvas walls with gauze windows and private verandas facing the Zambezi. Many tents boast special touches such as outdoor “bath‑with‑a‑view” spots and generous lounge spaces, making the most of the camp’s dramatic setting.
Facilities
The central camp area includes a relaxed lounge and bar, a dining tent opening onto a broad deck, a small swimming pool with river views and spaces for sundowners beneath the wide African sky. There’s also a Star Bed platform set apart in the bush for guests who want to spend a night under stars near a busy waterhole. Wi‑Fi is available in the main area for staying connected.
Activities
Safari days here are diverse and deeply immersive. Expert guides lead morning and afternoon game drives across the concession, while guided walking safaris let you experience the landscape on foot. On the water, you can enjoy canoeing and pontoon boat trips along the Zambezi, offering superb birdwatching and scenic wildlife viewing, and catch‑and‑release fishing adds another layer of adventure. The Star Bed experience is a romantic highlight for those wanting to sleep under the magnificent African night sky.
Sustainability
Ruckomechi operates within a private conservation concession, bolstering wildlife protection on the western edge of Mana Pools National Park. Its presence helps create a buffer zone for elephants, buffalo and other species, contributing to long‑term conservation aims. The camp’s design uses solar power sensitively and its guiding team is deeply engaged in ethical wildlife practices, supporting the preservation of the Zambezi Valley ecosystem.
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Best places to stay in Mana Pools National Park
Zimbabwe Trip Inspiration
When to visit Zimbabwe
Find out the best time to visit Zimbabwe with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is an excellent time to head out with expert guides and view resident and migratory bird species. The days are warm, with the risk of rain, this clears very fast as it arrives.
February
February is the best time for birders. The days are warm, with the risk of afternoon rain showers, but they clear as fast as they arrive.
March
If you want to witness Vic Falls at its fullest, March is the month to visit, with huge volumes of spray, it is perfect if you want to see the gorges and geology of the area.
April
The world famous Mana Pools re-open in April. The days feel fresher as the wet season ends leaving the landscapes looking lush green, making it perfect for walking safaris.
May
In May, the days continue to feel fresh and bright making it a perfect time to venture out on walking safaris.
June
June heralds the return of winter, nights turn colder and the temperature dips - take plenty of layers as the temperature can drop below freezing. It is the perfect time for photographers to explore Hwange National Park before the busy holiday period.
July
Winter temperatures continue into July so take plenty of layers. Much like June, it is perfect for photographers looking to view wildlife from a different angle.
August
If you want clear, bright blue skies and continuous wildlife sightings, August is the month for you. Camps are likely to be fuller, however, if you visit private concessions you can still experience exclusivity and no crowds.
September
Much like August, September is an amazing time for wildlife spotting and weather, in particular it is considered the best time of year to see elephant herds in Hwange National Park.
October
In October wildlife sightings are at their peak as the dry season ends. If you travel during this month you can experience hot days with temperatures soaring up to 40 degrees.
November
November is the best time to head out with expert guides and view resident and migratory bird species. The days are warm, with the risk of rain, this clears very fast as it arrives. It is low season and one of the best times to go white water rafting at Vic Falls, the volume and speed of the water is reduced exposing the rapids.
December
In December the days are warm with the risk of rain showers mid afternoon. The rivers rise and dependant on water levels travellers can visit 'devils pool' at Vic Falls, providing high excitement and a head for heights needed if you want to get close to the drop off.
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Alistair
