It takes at least a quarter of a century for a mahogany tree to reach its full height, meaning the ones that shade Nyamatusi Mahogany have been around a lot longer than one of Zimbabwe’s loveliest small camps. But what this 4-suite camp lacks in age, it more than makes up for in style. Thoughtful touches and understated décor are found throughout the two family suites and two luxurious suites, all of which have sought-after elements like air conditioning, solar-powered in-room charging stations and private plunge pools.
The little sister to Nyamatusi Camp, which is also in a beautiful and remote part of Mana Pools National Park, Nyamatusi Mahogany is ideal to be booked in its entirety by a large group or family, such as couples travelling with children and grandparents. Your days will be passed canoeing on the canals of the Zambezi River, going on guided game drives in search of big game, waking amid the smaller flora and fauna, and boating serenely along the water, passing crocodiles, hippos and other wildlife as you do.
Everything at Nyamatusi Mahogany has been built with the environment and sustainability in mind. The timber decking and cladding of the rooms and 2-storey common area, which has a library, viewing deck, sunken fire pit, wine cellar and splash pool, blends into the surrounding miombo woodland, which shelters waterbuck, impala, warthog and baboons. Predators also make their presence known, with regular sightings of cheetah, lion, leopard and even wild dog. In fact, the only animal superstars not present are rhino (although conservation efforts are in place) and giraffe, which historically prefer a different topography. Nyamatusi Mahogany is a seasonal camp open during the dry months of April’s autumn weather to the first spring rains in November. Peak-season game viewing means shorter grass and a greater number of animals amassed at the remaining water sources – a safari lover’s dream!