Mana Pools National Park is one of Africa’s most remote and rewarding safari destinations, known for its exceptional wildlife, scenic beauty, and unique opportunities for walking safaris. Located along the Zambezi River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features open floodplains, dense woodlands, and pools that remain from the river’s old channels. With no fences and a true sense of wilderness, Mana Pools offers an unmatched safari experience.

 

Wildlife

• Elephants & Buffalos – Large herds of elephants and buffalos roam the floodplains, often seen near the river and under the park’s towering trees.

• Predators – Lions, leopards, and wild dogs are frequently spotted, taking advantage of the rich prey populations.

• Hippos & Crocodiles – The Zambezi River is home to abundant hippos and some of Africa’s largest crocodiles.

• Plains Game – Kudu, eland, zebra, and waterbuck thrive in the park’s diverse habitats.

• Birdlife – Over 350 bird species, including African skimmers, fish eagles, and carmine bee-eaters, make Mana Pools a birdwatcher’s paradise.

 

Attractions

• Zambezi River & Floodplains – The lifeblood of Mana Pools, the Zambezi River supports a vast array of wildlife and offers opportunities for canoe safaris, fishing, and game viewing along its banks.

• Wildlife on Foot – One of the few places in Africa where visitors can safely track large game, including elephants and lions, on guided walking safaris.

• Remote Wilderness – With no fences and limited infrastructure, Mana Pools remains a truly wild safari experience, far from crowds and modern developments.

• Forests for Photography – The albida and mahogany woodlands provide breathtaking scenery for photography, with towering trees, golden light, and elephants reaching for branches creating iconic images.

 

Major Reserves & Protected Areas

• Mana Pools National Park – Covering 2,500 square kilometres, this protected area is part of a larger transfrontier conservation region extending into Zambia.

• Sapi & Chewore Safari Areas – Private concessions adjacent to Mana Pools, offering exclusive safari experiences with limited visitor numbers.

 

Activities

• Walking Safaris – Guided walking safaris allow visitors to experience the park’s wildlife up close.

• Canoe Safaris – One of Mana Pools’ signature experiences, offering a unique way to see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants from the water.

• Game Drives – Limited to specific areas but still provide excellent sightings of predators and large mammals.

• Fishing – The Zambezi is known for tigerfish, making Mana Pools a popular catch-and-release fishing destination.

• Birdwatching – The park’s rivers, forests, and floodplains attract an incredible variety of bird species.

 

Accommodation

• Luxury Safari Camps – Exclusive tented camps and lodges offering personalised service, private game drives, and high-end amenities.

• Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps – Comfortable accommodations with guided safari activities and great wildlife access.

• Budget & Camping – Basic campsites and affordable lodges provide a more rustic experience for self-sufficient travellers.

 

Getting There

• By Air – Charter flights from Harare or Victoria Falls to airstrips near the park.

• By Road – A long, rough drive from Harare (around 7–10 hours) requiring a 4x4 vehicle, especially in the rainy season.

 

Weather & Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (May–October) – The best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, and visibility is excellent.

• Green Season (November–April) – Lush landscapes and dramatic skies, but some areas become inaccessible due to heavy rains.

 

Mana Pools National Park offers an exceptional and immersive safari experience in one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas. With its wildlife-rich floodplains, dense woodlands, and the iconic Zambezi River, it’s a place where nature remains untouched and visitors can experience Africa as it was meant to be. From walking safaris with elephants to canoeing past hippos and crocodiles, the park provides unforgettable moments for every traveller. Whether seeking an adventure in the wild or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Mana Pools offers something for everyone, making it an essential destination for those looking to connect with Africa's untamed beauty.