OVERVIEW:
All in all, Wilderness Ruckomechi is a fantastic adventurous camp, perfect for travelers who like their boating activities as well as some great game viewing. Often, elephant come right up to camp! However, viewing is limited to the private concession unless guests pay extra to hire a vehicle for private use, preferably in advance of their stay.
WILDERNESS RUCKOMECHI LOCATION & ACCESS:
It is situated in the west region of Mana Pools, within a private concession and along the banks of the Zambezi River.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT WILDERNESS RUCKOMECHI:
The main areas of camp are positioned among acacia and mahogany trees, with superb views of the river escarpment. A comfortable lounge, a dining room with a large table, a library and a bar are housed within a building constructed from local materials. Outside, wooden decking leads onto a platform over the river, where guests like to sit and watch the sunset and the night sky. The camp also boasts an infinity pool, surrounded by sunloungers. Finally, there is an open-air bathtub on the river bank, for the ultimate in relaxation!
The guest accommodation at Wilderness Ruckomechi is connected to the main building via low-level walkways. There are ten tents in total – seven twins, two doubles and a two-bedroom family tent. All are made from canvas, with fine-mesh windows to protect against insects while letting the breeze blow through. Interior décor features local art and some pleasant rustic touches, while furniture includes bedside tables, a writing table, a wardrobe and a sumptuous leather chair! En-suite bathrooms are open plan and consist of flush toilet, mokoro-shaped washbasin and outdoor shower. All tents have a veranda overlooking the river, complete with comfy chairs.
WILDERNESS RUCKOMECHI ACTIVITIES:
Wilderness Ruckomechi is able to offer a good assortment of activities, due to its location within a private concession.
- Game drives take place during early morning and late afternoon, offering guests a great opportunity to get to know the wildlife of the area – elephant are particularly prevalent here! Lion, leopard, cheetah, zebra and antelope are numerous too. Nature walks are equally breathtaking, especially along the banks of the river to view its hippo and crocodile.
- Motorized watersports are not permitted within most of Mana Pools, but cruises in motorboats and pontoons are possible from Wilderness Ruckomechi.
- There is also catch-and-release fishing to enjoy, some brilliant birding, and a romantic night spent under the stars at the camp’s Star Bed, which lies close to a busy waterhole.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.