Zimbabwe : Mana Pools National Park
Mana pools, a world heritage site, is famous for it huge concentrations of game in the dry season which come down to the Zambezi river to drink. A walking or canoe safari is the best way to fully experience and appreciate this rich and beautiful area, dotted with mahogany and acacia trees and pools of water formed by the re-routing over the years of the Zambezi River. There are 2 luxurious lodges to either relax at before or after a canoe/walking safari or to stay at for a few days and explore this wilderness area.
Ruckomechi Camp
Ruckomechi is set in a shady grove of massive mahogany and acacia trees with views across the Zambezi River to the Zambian escarpment. It is the four times winner of Zimbabwe's 'Best Safari Camp' award and is in the perfect situation to explore Mana Pools with a huge flood plain behind it teeming with game. There are 10 spacious, airy chalets, which are constructed out of local materials and have en suite facilities, mosquito nets, fans and a private verandah. Ruckomechi is well known for it's "bath with a view". The bath is closed on three sides and open at the front with a view of the Zambezi River. There is also a "loo with a view" just next door. The camp has an excellent reputation for its home-style cooking, friendly atmosphere and excellent service.
| click on the photos for a larger version | ||
 |
 |
 |
| morning visitors | the rooms | bedroom interior |
Chikwenya Safari Camp
Chikwenya is beautifully sited, in an exclusive and remote area overlooking the channels of the Sapi and Zambezi River confluence. Surrounded by woodland and game rich flood plains it is an ideal camp to relax at after a canoe or walking safari. There are eight tented chalets all of which are en suite and the dining area is in the shade of a giant Natal mahogany tree. Game drives are by boat or vehicle and walking safaris are in the company of a professional guide. Guests can also go fishing or view game from specially constructed viewing platforms and hides.
| click on the photos for a larger version | |
 |
 |
| chalet | bedroom |
Canoe and Walking Safaris
Natureways have been conducting safaris in Mana Pools for 15 years. They have designed exciting programmes to bring you closer to nature and are suitable for people of all ages who have a degree of fitness and an appreciation of outdoor life.
Canoe Safaris
Canoeing on average 20km a day, you will spend 4 days exploring the channels and flood plains of the Zambezi. Gliding down the river in the peaceful hours of early morning and evening you will see a multitude of birds, and animals coming down to the water to drink. Each day you have the option to go walking with your professional guide onto the game rich flood plains and camp staff will make camp at scenic spots along the river and prepare delicious, freshly made food to eat under the stars.
Walking Safaris
The walking safaris will be led by an experienced professional guide who will introduce you to a whole new world of insects, birds, animals and their habitats. He will show you his tracking skills and walk you safely and close to animals large and small. As the area has a policy of no vehicles, camp staff will paddle in with your luggage and set camp in picturesque spots near to the river. The tents have large gauze windows in the roof so you can sleep under the stars.
| click on the photos for a larger version | ||
 |
 |
 |
| canoeing on the Zambezi | canoeing | the Zambezi river |
 |
 |
 |
| tent interior | bush breakfast | the campsite |
