John’s Camp

Overview

John’s Camp is one of those places we always come back to when thinking about a proper, old-school safari. Set in a remote part of Mana Pools National Park, it offers a level of wilderness that’s getting harder to find elsewhere in Africa. This is not a camp you come to for luxury in the traditional sense – it’s all about the experience, and they do it exceptionally well.

What really stands out for us here is the guiding. The camp was founded by one of Zimbabwe’s most respected professional guides, and that legacy still shows. Walking safaris are the main focus, and there’s nothing quite like exploring this landscape on foot with such knowledgeable guides. You’ll also head out on game drives and along the Zambezi River, where elephants, buffalo, and predators are regularly seen.

The camp itself is small and intimate, with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes it feel more like staying with old friends than at a formal lodge. It’s a brilliant option for those who want to experience Mana Pools in a more authentic and immersive way.

Rooms

Simple, comfortable and perfectly in tune with the surroundings

The tents at John’s Camp are classic safari style – understated but very comfortable. Each one has an en-suite bathroom with bucket showers and flush toilets, and everything is designed to keep the focus on the wilderness around you rather than distractions inside.

Activities

Walking safaris, canoeing and game drives in a truly wild setting

Activities at John’s Camp are centred around experiencing Mana Pools as it should be – slowly and up close. Walking safaris are the highlight, giving you the chance to track wildlife and learn about the smaller details of the bush that you’d miss from a vehicle.

Game drives are also on offer, particularly in the early mornings and late afternoons, while canoeing on the Zambezi River is another special experience when conditions allow. This is a fantastic way to see elephants, hippos and birdlife from a completely different perspective.

As always in Mana Pools, time is flexible and shaped around what’s happening in the bush, which is exactly how we think safaris should be.