Wilderness Ruckomechi

The camp sits on the south bank of the Zambezi in a private concession that acts as a buffer for the park, facing the mountains across the river in Zambia. There are ten suites, including two family units, some with a bath looking out over the view, plus a riverside pool and fire deck. Elephants come into camp for the albida pods and often wander between the rooms and the main area.

Game drives cover the floodplain and woodland behind camp, and canoe trips on the Zambezi are good for waterbirds and bee-eaters. There are also guided walks, catch-and-release tigerfishing and a night on the Star Bed above Parachute Pan. Wilderness reports regular sightings of lion, leopard and wild dog. Plan three or four nights, and add Hwange or Victoria Falls on either side for a well-rounded Zimbabwe trip.

Ruckomechi suits travelers who want variety from one base, and families who can use the family units. It is closed from late November to the end of March. It is a larger camp than its sister, Little Ruckomechi, so couples looking for a quieter setting may prefer the smaller camp next door. Mana Pools is also very hot in October and November.