In my last safari guide I’ve taken you to Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe and shared all my tips for a safari in the elephant wonderland at the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. But there’s more to the story…
It’s also important to make a well informed choice when it comes to accommodations and where to stay in Mana Pools.
That’s why I decided to share this short guide with tips for private concessions in Mana Pools, as those are the best options when it comes to an outstanding safari experience in this part of Zimbabwe.
As a travel photographer and writer with a passion for responsible safaris, I recently had the privilege of exploring two extraordinary camps in private concessions in this region: Ruckomechi and Chikwenya. Both are part of Wilderness and located in two very distinct parts of Mana Pools National Park.
Locations: From West to East
Ruckomechi Camp is located in a private concession at the very Western tip of Mana Pools National Park directly at the Zambezi River and overlooking the Zambian escarpment. I got here by boat from Chirundu border post (as I had been to Zambia right before), but you can also fly in. Both ways to travel are scenic, my boat transfer included hippo, crocodile and eagle sightings.
Chikwenya Lodge is all the way to the Eastern edge of Mana Pools, but also on a property facing the Zambezi River. The neighbouring concession is open for hunting, so much of the wildlife has learned to use Chikwenya as a safe haven and retreat, increasing the density of wildlife even more.
Both locations allow for not just the classic game drives and Mana Pools’ famous walking safaris, but also for water activities from boat to canoe safaris.
The Privilege of a Private Concession
Staying at Ruckomechi Camp or Chikwenya Lodge comes with the significant advantage of both being within private concessions. This exclusivity means fewer vehicles and tourists, allowing for a more personal and serene experience. It also grants access to areas that are off-limits to the general public, increasing the chances of wildlife sightings and providing a sense of wilderness that is hard to find elsewhere.
Another plus: Off-road driving and night drives are only allowed in private concessions and not in the main park.
Wilderness: Eco-Tourism Ethos
Mana Pools itself is renowned for its commitment to conservation and eco-tourism. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, supported by a delicate balance of ecosystems.
Both Ruckomechi and Chikwenya Camps, operated by Wilderness, epitomize this ethos.
Designed with sustainability at their core, both camps utilize solar energy, eco-friendly waste management systems, and locally sourced materials to minimize their ecological footprints. But the Wilderness impact goes way deeper than that. I had the chance to get to know Cynthia Ndiweni, who is part of Wilderness’ Zambezi Impact team, and specifically involved in Children in the Wilderness. She told me all about CITW projects in Zambia and Zimbabwe and how Wilderness is working to help create the next generation of custodians of the landscapes.
Staying with Wilderness means contributing to the preservation of this natural wonder, ensuring that future generations can marvel at its beauty.
Ruckomechi Camp: A Blend of Luxury and Wilderness
The first camp I stayed at is Ruckomechi Camp. Its location provides stunning views of the Zambezi River and the mountains of the Zambian escarpment across the river. One of the most unforgettable aspects of Ruckomechi is its abundance of elephants. They call it “elephant camp” for a very good reason. Elephants are a constant presence, often seen sauntering through the camp or bathing in the river. I even needed to be accompanied to my tent multiple times as elephants were blocking the way feeding from the trees in the camp.
The Unique Ruckomechi Star Bed
Ruckomechi also offers something very special! For those seeking an extraordinary adventure, the Ruckomechi Star Bed is an experience like no other. This outdoor sleeping arrangement, set on a raised platform under the vast African sky, offers an intimate connection with nature. Falling asleep to the sounds of the wild and waking up to the first light of dawn is a surreal experience. The star bed is situated in a prime location for stargazing, far from any light pollution, allowing the Milky Way to stretch out in all its glory above you. It’s an experience that truly captures the essence of the African wilderness.
Chikwenya Camp: A Riverside Retreat
The second Wilderness camp I stayed at was Chikwenya Camp. It’s situated on the Eastern boundary of Mana Pools and offers a different yet equally captivating experience. The camp is nestled at the confluence of the Sapi and Zambezi Rivers, surrounded by lush floodplains and riverine forests. This location attracts a plethora of wildlife, making it a paradise for photographers.
Elephants are a frequent sight, along with prides of lions, that we even heard directly from camp every night. Chikwenya’s setting offers water-based activities like canoeing, which I would 100% recommend. My dream came true here when two elephant bulls decided to cross the Zambezi River right in front of us.
Tip: Combine both camps
I stayed at both properties for 2 nights each, giving me a taste of what they have to offer. But, I could’ve easily extended the stay. I would suggest to book 3 nights per camp to make the best of both exquisite locations.
Ruckomechi and Chikwenya both offer exclusive safaris in their private concessions, combined with the Wilderness philosophy and ethos, excellent guiding and an interesting mix of activities – so you can easily stay here for your whole safari.
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