For travellers seeking a truly wild and off-grid safari, John’s Camp offers an intimate experience that captures the spirit of old Africa. With only a handful of guests hosted at any one time, this charming bush camp delivers a peaceful retreat along the banks of the Zambezi. Ideal for seasoned safari enthusiasts and nature lovers, it’s the kind of place where the wilderness comes first and the connection with nature feels deeply personal.
Mike and Lotte visited the camp and thoroughly enjoyed their stay it’s definitely a place worth experiencing.
Located on the eastern edge of Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, where the Sapi River flows into the mighty Zambezi, John’s Camp is perfectly placed for privacy and wildlife immersion. The area is remote and uncrowded, offering a true escape from modern distractions. With no mobile reception and limited power, it’s the perfect setting for switching off and tuning in to nature.
Days are filled with traditional safari experiences, led by expert guides who know the area intimately. Guests can explore by vehicle, on foot, or in canoes, tracking everything from elephants to the elusive painted wolf. Birders will find the area especially rewarding, while riverbank sundowners add a magical close to each adventurous day. The camp’s private setting also allows for flexible itineraries and a slower pace.
Accommodation is in simple yet comfortable Meru-style tents, each with an en-suite bathroom and open-air shower. While there’s no electricity in the tents, solar lamps and paraffin lanterns add to the campfire ambience. A central dining and lounge area includes a charging station for devices. Though rustic, the camp offers hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere that many find irresistible.
Operating Dates: 01 May – 15 November
High Season (H/S): July – September
Low Season (L/S): January – 21 May & November – December
Category Ranges:
$: USD 0 – USD250/pppn
$$: USD 251 – USD600/pppn
$$$: USD 601 – USD1,000/pppn
$$$$: USD1,001+/pppn
The price categories give you an idea of the nightly cost per person for this accommodation.