Where is Little Ruckomechi and how do I get there?

In the private Ruckomechi concession bordering Mana Pools National Park on the Zambezi River. Guests usually fly to Mana Main or a concession airstrip and continue by game-drive and/or boat transfer to camp.

What is the accommodation like?

An intimate tented camp with three tents (a fourth added for exclusive-use). Expect river views, a plunge pool and shaded decks under ana trees with the escarpment as a backdrop.

What activities are offered?

Day and (permit-dependent) night drives, guided walking safaris, canoeing quiet channels, motorboat cruises and seasonal catch-and-release tiger fishing, plus an elevated Star Bed sleepout.

What wildlife can I see?

Elephants often wander through camp; expect big buffalo herds, hippo-lined channels and strong predator viewing including lion, leopard and African wild dog, with vibrant birding along the river.

Is it suitable for small groups or families?

Yes—sole-use is possible, allowing flexible timings and privacy. Private deck dining, bush breakfasts and sundowners on the river set an easy, personalised rhythm.

Little Ruckomechi

Little Ruckomechi is an intimate tented camp set under ana trees on the banks of the Zambezi, in Wilderness’s private Ruckomechi concession bordering Mana Pools National Park (UNESCO). With just three tents (four if exclusive use), it delivers a quiet, riverfront base with views to the Rift Valley escarpment. Expect elephants in camp, hippo on the channels, and outstanding predator country: lion, leopard and African wild dog. Private-concession access unlocks flexible activities on land and water.

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Candlelit dinner table in the mess tent at Little Ruckomechi, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Quick facts
3-4 tents only
Private concession
Zambezi views
Canoe & cruise
Star bed option

Riverside sundowners with safari vehicle and canoes near Little Ruckomechi, Zambezi River, Mana Pools, Zimbabwe

Canvas lounge tent at Little Ruckomechi lit by lanterns at dusk, with river and escarpment views, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Highlights & Activities.

Twice-daily game drives (day and, where permitted, night) within the private concession; guided walking safaris with expert trackers; canoeing the Zambezi; motorboat river cruises; seasonal catch-and-release tiger fishing; birding for carmine bee-eaters, fish eagles and kingfishers; photographic opportunities from the floodplains; the elevated Star Bed sleep-out by prior arrangement; bush breakfasts and sundowners; private dining; the camp’s plunge pool and deck between activities. Families and small groups can book sole-use and tailor timings. Stargazing under dark skies and boat-based photography add to the appeal.

Elephant calf walking with herd near Little Ruckomechi camp, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Region information.

Little Ruckomechi sits in Wilderness’s Ruckomechi private concession bordering Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Zambezi River. This riverine landscape of albida forests, floodplains and oxbow channels is famous for elephants, big buffalo herds, hippos and prolific predators including lion, leopard and African wild dog. Being in a private concession brings advantages: fewer vehicles, limited off-road access and the ability to run night drives, which are not permitted in the national park. Water activities, canoeing, river cruises and seasonal fishing, add a rare perspective to classic game viewing.