One of Zimbabwe's prime wildlife viewing areas
Enjoy a canoe safari along the mighty Zambezi on a luxury Mana Pools safari, see the hippos, and watch elephants feeding from the trees.
Stretching along the Zambezi River in Northern Zimbabwe, the Mana Pools National Park is one of the country’s prime wildlife viewing areas and one of the best places to visit in Zimbabwe. The park takes its name from the four pools - Mana means four in the local Shona language, which are a magnet for wildlife, especially in the dry winter months.
Lion, leopard, wild dog, cheetah and brown hyena are amongst the predators found in the park, whilst buffalo are found in strong numbers, as are elephant, some of whom have adapted to their environment to rise up on their hind legs to feed from the trees. There is a good variety of plains game in the park, whilst the ever-present water in the pools and in the Zambezi River makes this a great spot for birding. As with any area in Africa, the waterways are full of hippo and crocodile.
Mana is prime walking territory and remains the only park in Africa were visitors can go walking without a guide, although we always urge having a guide with you at all times when on foot. Game drives are also a great way to explore whilst those looking to enjoy the park from a different perspective can take canoe safaris along the mighty Zambezi – a wonderful way to enjoy the views back to the park and mountain escarpment.
Accommodation in Mana Pools is all tented camps, opening seasonally in the dry months between April and October each year when the wildlife returns from the escarpment where it shelters during the rain, with peak viewing enjoyed between July and October. The majority of the camps are found along the Zambezi River within the park, although there are some lovely ‘inland’ options as well. So why go on a tailor-made Mana Pools safari? Well, put simply, for many this is as good as a safari experience in Africa gets. Isolated, wonderfully scenic and rich in wildlife, this is quintessential Africa. Twin that with an incredible choice of places to stay and some of the best guides you will enjoy anywhere in Africa, a luxury Mana Pools holiday is a treat not to be missed.
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FAQs About Your Mana Pools National Park Holiday
Planning a holiday to Mana Pools National Park? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Why visit Mana Pools National Park?
Mana Pools is one of Africa’s most legendary wilderness areas, set on the banks of the Zambezi River in northern Zimbabwe. It is renowned for its walking safaris, canoe trips, and incredible wildlife encounters. The park’s UNESCO World Heritage status highlights its pristine environment, while its remoteness and low visitor numbers mean it feels like true, untamed Africa.
What wildlife can I see at Mana Pools?
Wildlife here is prolific, with elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and wild dogs among the highlights. The park is particularly famous for its elephants, some of which rear up on their hind legs to reach fruit high in the trees. Hippos and crocodiles thrive in the Zambezi’s channels, and birdwatchers will find over 350 species including carmine bee-eaters and fish eagles.
Is Mana Pools good for walking safaris?
Yes, Mana Pools is considered one of the finest walking safari destinations in Africa. Expert guides lead you safely on foot through open floodplains and riverine forests, offering thrilling but respectful encounters with wildlife. It’s one of the best ways to experience the park’s atmosphere and understand the bush on a deeper level.
When is the best time to visit Mana Pools?
The best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season. As water sources shrink, wildlife congregates along the Zambezi, making sightings more predictable and dramatic. This is also the ideal time for canoe safaris and walking, when vegetation is thinner and conditions are cooler. November to April brings rain, lush scenery, and fewer visitors, but wildlife can be more dispersed.
How do I get to Mana Pools?
Most visitors fly in on a light aircraft from Harare, Victoria Falls, or other safari hubs. Flights cut out long travel times and provide spectacular views of the Zambezi Valley. For adventurous travellers, it’s possible to drive, but you’ll need a reliable 4x4 and a good level of experience, as road conditions can be tough and remote.
Can I do canoe safaris in Mana Pools?
Absolutely. Multi-day canoe safaris on the Zambezi are a Mana Pools signature experience. Paddling quietly past elephants, hippos, and birdlife gives you a unique perspective of the park. Trips are fully guided and supported, ranging from gentle explorations to adventurous expeditions between Mana Pools and the Lower Zambezi.
Are there family-friendly camps in Mana Pools?
Yes, but with some caveats. Certain camps do welcome children, though many walking and canoeing activities have strict minimum age requirements (often 12–16 years). Some lodges offer shorter, gentler activities or special child-friendly experiences. We can help match families to the right camps so everyone has a rewarding stay.
What type of accommodation is available?
Accommodation ranges from rustic mobile camps that follow traditional safari style, to luxury tented lodges offering fine dining and en-suite comfort. Most are set along the Zambezi River, with views of hippos and elephants from your deck. The remoteness of Mana Pools means camps are small and intimate, blending adventure with exclusivity.
Is Mana Pools less crowded than other safari areas?
Yes, Mana Pools offers a wonderfully wild, uncrowded experience. Visitor numbers are strictly controlled, so you’re unlikely to see many other vehicles. This makes it perfect for adventurous travellers and safari purists who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience without sacrificing comfort or guiding quality.
