Stepping into the wild - My visit to Camp Mana by Martina Warwick.

In the heart of Zimbabwe's Mana Pools National Park, a safari experience unlike any other awaits the intrepid traveller. Camp Mana, recently crowned as Africa's Best Walking Operator in the 2024 Safari Awards, offers an immersive journey into the wild that rekindles our primal connection to nature.

Led by the legendary Steve Bolnick, a safari virtuoso with over four decades of experience, Camp Mana provides a gateway to Africa's untamed beauty. Bolnick's expertise spans the gamut of safari adventures, from tracking lions and elephants to observing painted dogs and capturing the perfect wildlife photograph. His deep understanding of Mana Pools' ecosystem ensures that guests can safely enjoy close encounters with the region's iconic wildlife.

The camp itself is a testament to the philosophy of reconnecting with our ancestral roots. Six tented accommodations offer unpretentious luxury, providing all the comforts of home while immersing guests in the raw beauty of the African bush. This old-school approach to safari living fosters a heightened awareness of environmental issues and reawakens the wild spirit within each visitor.

What sets Camp Mana apart is the freedom it affords its guests. Walking safaris, guided by armed specialists, allow for exploration far beyond the beaten path. This flexibility enables visitors to tailor their experience to wildlife movements and personal interests, creating truly bespoke adventures.

For photography enthusiasts, Mana Pools is a dream come true. The unique blue light, the majestic Zambezi River flanked by its dramatic escarpment, and the diverse wildlife create a photographer's paradise. The camp's strategic location on a Zambezi channel means that wildlife often wanders through, offering excellent in-camp photography opportunities.

During my stay, the area was teeming with wildlife activity. A nearby painted dog den with nine adults and five pups provided frequent sightings, while four pairs of mating lions in the vicinity led to thrilling nocturnal encounters. One night, we were treated to the spine-tingling sounds of a lion kill right in camp, an experience that left us breathless with excitement.

Tracking wild dogs on foot was a highlight of the trip. After a short drive and a 40-minute walk through increasingly dense woodland, we found ourselves observing a pack of painted dogs and their energetic pups from a respectful distance. The opportunity to witness these endangered animals at eye level was both humbling and exhilarating.

Equally thrilling was the chance to track lions and elephants on foot. The camp's wildlife-centric location meant we didn't have to venture far to find two lions lounging on the open floodplains. Observing these magnificent creatures through binoculars at ground level was an indescribable experience that set my heart racing.

A half-day canoe trip on the Zambezi River provided yet another perspective on the region's beauty. Drifting past elephants and buffalo on the riverbanks, and coming close to a flock of African Skimmers on a sandbank, offered unparalleled opportunities for low-angle photography and intimate wildlife encounters.

Back at camp, I found myself captivated by a breeding herd of elephants, complete with playful calves. The ability to approach on foot for some close-up photographs was a serene and unforgettable experience.

Camp Mana is more than just a safari destination; it's a sensory journey through one of Africa's most pristine wildernesses. From tracking lions to encountering wild dogs at eye level, and drifting along the Zambezi in a canoe, every moment brings you closer to the untamed heart of nature.

Managed and guided by the affable Steve Bolnick and his wife Debbie, Camp Mana offers a personalized touch that sets it apart. For safari purists seeking an authentic African experience, this gem in Mana Pools National Park promises an incomparable adventure. It's not just about seeing the 'Real Africa' – it's about truly feeling it.

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Steve Bolnick: A Legend in African Safari Guiding

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With over four decades of experience in the African bush, Steve Bolnick has established himself as one of Zimbabwe's most respected and skilled safari guides. His reputation extends far beyond the borders of his home country, earning him recognition throughout the African safari industry.

Bolnick's expertise spans a wide range of safari experiences, including walking safaris, game drives, canoeing expeditions, and wildlife photography. His profound knowledge of Mana Pools National Park's ecosystem and its inhabitants has made him a sought-after guide for those seeking authentic and immersive wildlife encounters.

Known for his calm demeanour and deep respect for nature, Bolnick has a particular talent for safely guiding guests on close encounters with some of Africa's most iconic and potentially dangerous animals, including lions, elephants, and painted dogs. His ability to read animal behaviour and understand the nuances of the bush ensures that these encounters are both thrilling and secure.

As the owner and lead guide at Camp Mana, Bolnick has created a safari experience that emphasizes connection with nature and environmental awareness. His commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices has helped set a standard for responsible safari operations in Zimbabwe.

Bolnick's passion for sharing his knowledge and love of the African wilderness has inspired countless guests over the years. His guided experiences often go beyond mere wildlife viewing, offering insights into the complex ecosystems and delicate balance of life in places like Mana Pools.

Recognized by his peers and the industry at large, Bolnick's Camp Mana was awarded Best Walking Operator in Africa at the 2024 Safari Awards, a testament to his skill, experience, and the unique experiences he offers to safari enthusiasts.

Steve Bolnick continues to be a driving force in Zimbabwean ecotourism, inspiring a new generation of guides and conservationists while providing unforgettable safari experiences to visitors from around the world.