Mana Pools, ZimbabweSapi Private Reserve
Tembo Plains Camp
Stone-walled safari camp
Sapi Private Reserve   Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
Opened
2021
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Local Design LuxeOutside the door
The house
Great Plains ConservationStone-walled safari camp
Curved masonry walls shield canvas living quarters along the Zambezi River, built for guided canoe outings and walking safaris.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Guided walking safaris and Zambezi canoe trails explore the private Sapi wilderness.
Notable
In-suite professional Canon cameras and Leica binoculars accompany private guided bush expeditions.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The Zambezi River flows along the northern boundary, and the untamed floodplains of Mana Pools lie directly west.
1 of 4
The rooms
Verandas hold private plunge pools right above the riverbank. Inside, curved stone walls wrap around deep soaking tubs.
The plunge pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Private plunge pools sit on the timber decks, lit by evening lanterns and fire bowls facing the Zambezi.
The spa
Tented pavilions behind carved Zanzibar doors open onto the river for massages using organic, vegan formulations.
At the table
Meals move between riverside breakfasts on the Zambezi bank and candlelit dinners in the stone wine cellar.
How it began
The reserve was established in 2016, converting former commercial hunting grounds into a protected wilderness for photographic expeditions.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.