Published 28th Jun. 2021
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One for adventurous travellers, as guests enjoy close encounters with wildlife during a canoe safari on one of the greatest rivers in Africa.
This safari experience sees guests canoe along the mighty Zambezi river through the Mana Pools National Park. The safari lasts three nights, with each night spent camping on the banks of the Zambezi with a total of 40 miles covered over the entire trip downstream. After a safety briefing, guests take to the waters of the Zambezi in two-man canoes and paddle past pods of hippos and elephants on the river banks before disembarking every now and then for nature walks.
The Mana Canoe Trail is for reasonably fit guests and is led by an experienced guide. Support vehicles and staff assist guests and set up camp each day. The safari makes for a great combination with a stay at one of the lodges in Mana Pools at either the beginning or the end.
Why We Love It
Encounters with animals, whether in the canoe or on foot, are up close and memorable.
An authentic yet luxurious tented camp, Zambezi Expeditions is located on the banks of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, and the setting is fantastic.
With just six tents, Zambezi Expeditions can be booked either on a shared or exclusive basis, so is ideal for both small groups and families. The large tents have adjoining bathrooms with flush loos and bucket showers, and the vast beds are extremely comfortable.
Dine under the stars on the banks of the Zambezi River - expect three course meals rather than picnic baskets - and the food is delicious. Lunch is buffet style, allowing guests to regroup and unwind in between game drives.
The team at Zambezi Expeditions excel in service, and the guide/host is particularly brilliant. Not only does he share his unprecedented knowledge of the African bush, but makes guests feel extremely welcome and at ease.
Activities include guided walking safaris, game drives, canoeing and fishing. Expect to see a plethora of wildlife, from hippo, herds of buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, wild dog, crocodile, zebra, eland, sable, kudu antelope, and over 350 bird species - that is to name but a few.
For an all round Mana experience, combine a stay at Zambezi Expeditions with sister camp Kanga Bush Camp which is situated inland in Mana Pools.
Why We Love It
Canoeing along the Zambezi River from the camp is a great way to see the wildlife.
Ruckomechi Camp lies on the banks of the Zambezi in the Mana Pools National Park, shaded by a large grove of acacia and mahogany trees and with a superb view of the mountains of Africa's Great Rift Valley across the river in Zambia.
The river forms the northern border of the area, with a wide variety of habitats surrounding the camp from open floodplains and mopane woodland to riverine forest, all with the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment in neighbouring Zambia forming the backdrop.
Ruckomechi Camp has ten spacious en-suite tented units, including a honeymoon suite, all of which overlook the Zambezi. Each tent has both indoor and outdoor showers, and an outdoor 'bath-with-a-view' in a secluded, scenic spot. There is also a separate deck with an infinity pool, and a comfortable star-gazing deck. The central dining, bar, library and lounge areas all look out across to the escarpment and are connected to the rest of the camp by low-level walkways aimed at minimising the environmental impact. Ruckomechi Camp's commitment to the environment also means the hot water and lighting is provided by solar power.
Why We Love It
The vegetation around the camp itself consists of broad canopied albida trees, much loved by elephants for their rich nutritious pods, and ellies often join guests in camp for a quick snack.
Surrounded by the iconic albida trees that characterise the area and in the heart of Mana Pools National Park is the luxury lodge Little Ruckomechi. The exclusive camp offers intimacy and seclusion, allowing guests to get that little bit closer to nature.
With just three ensuite tents in total, the camp offers ultimate privacy. Each tent, built on wooden decks, is elegantly decorated and airy inside, and offers unrivalled views of the Zambian foothills in the distance. Living spaces include a lounge, dining area and a plunge pool overlooking the mighty Zambezi River.
The lodge boasts spectacular wildlife viewing, with hippos, buffalo and predators often sighted. Activities include early morning and late afternoon game drives, river cruises and nature walks. Catch-and-release fishing can also be arranged.
Why We Love It
Wild encounters with animals close to your tent can be a personal and memorable experience.
As one of the top safari destinations in southern Africa, we’re determined to showcase Zimbabwe’s exceptional wildlife experiences. By partnering with the very best camps, we aim to actively support local communities committed to ongoing conservation efforts (so you can do good while having fun). With a rich history and diversity across Zimbabwe’s parks, we can tailor itineraries to every taste and budget. What’s more, its proximity to nearby Indian Ocean islands means we can even organise a relaxing beach stay after your safari.
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