Hidden within the heart of Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hideaways Mhara River Camp offers a truly special safari experience. The camp is perched just 50 meters above the Chitake River, surrounded by rain trees and untouched wilderness. It’s a place where you can feel the pulse of nature up close, with wildlife regularly visiting the riverbed below in search of water.
Mornings at Hideaways Mhara River Camp start gently, with the sounds of the bush waking up around you. Enjoy a cup of local Zimbabwean coffee on your private patio, where it’s not uncommon to spot an elephant or baboon strolling by. As you walk to the main area for breakfast, you might even notice fresh tracks left by lions or elephants that passed through the camp while you were sleeping.
Your days here are filled with adventure. Whether you opt for a game drive or a guided bush walk, you’ll be exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes Mana Pools has to offer. Drive along dry riverbeds framed by towering cliffs, shaped over centuries by powerful floods, and keep an eye out for elephants, antelopes, and predators as they go about their day.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, a hike up Chitake Gorge offers the chance to discover ancient boulders and springs that hold water long into the dry season. This area is home to a unique mix of wildlife and plant species that you won’t find elsewhere in the concession. Down by the river, the riverine forests provide a cool, shaded retreat from the midday heat, with massive Mahogany and Sausage trees offering welcome relief.
As evening falls, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a drink while watching a stunning African sunset, with elephants or other wildlife wandering close by. And if you’re not ready to call it a night, the camp’s night drives are a must. They offer a glimpse into the mysterious nocturnal world of Mhara, where you might spot leopards, lions, servals, and other elusive creatures.
