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Mana Pools National Park

The Off-The-Beaten-Track Zimbabwe Safari

Mana Pools National Park offers a unique, off-the-beaten-track safari in northern Zimbabwe. Located along the Zambezi River, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its breathtaking beauty and abundant wildlife. Its diverse landscapes – from lush forests of acacia, fig, and mahogany to vast, open floodplains – offer incredible scenery and create a diverse habitat for a variety of animals. 

The name ‘Mana Pools’ (meaning ‘Four Pools’) originates from the Park’s four permanent watering holes, which are central to its reputation as one of the world’s top natural attractions. These pools are a popular gathering place for wildlife: from massive herds of elephants and buffaloes to zebras, antelopes, and large populations of hippos and crocodiles. During Amber Season (in the months of October and November) the action around these pools intensifies, attracting predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs, making them the perfect place for wildlife encounters. Bird enthusiasts will also be in paradise, with over 400 recorded species found here. 

Mana Pools National Park stands out as a leading safari destination for one remarkable reason: its unparalleled walking safaris. Here, you’re invited to journey into the heart of the wild, where every step brings you closer to nature. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll become one with the landscape, attuned to the rustle of leaves, the distant roar of a lion, or the soft murmur of the Zambezi River. For many, the beauty of Mana Pools is captured in this immersive, multi-sensory journey – one that invites you to venture beyond the ordinary. 

The Park’s remote location adds a unique sense of adventure for those who visit. Whether you’re exploring on foot, by canoe, or on a game drive, Mana Pools delivers an unforgettable safari experience, allowing you to truly connect with nature and immerse yourself in Africa’s wild beauty. 

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Bok Zimbabwe Safari Wildlife
Zimbabwe Mana Pools National Park
Hippo Mana Pools Zimbabwe
A pride of lions drinking

Magnetic Mana Pools

Here are some unique experiences exclusive to this incredible national park

  • Wild Dogs at Mana Pools

    Mana Pools National Park, on the Lower Zambezi is the ideal place to sight packs of African wild dogs particularly during the dry season (May and November), when water levels fall.
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  • Unique Elephants

    Ever witnessed an elephant standing on their hind legs to reach for a snack? At Mana Pools you’re most likely to see this incredible sighting. Especially from Boswell, the popular ellie.
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  • Kanga Pan Wildlife

    Located on the majestic Lower Zambezi River, the Kanga Pan provides a regular watering point for a wide range of wildlife and birds, including elephants and wild dogs, fish eagles and storks.
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  • Walking Safaris

    70% of Mana Pools National Park is traversable by foot making it an explorers paradise. Untouched by the bustling city life, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the remoteness.
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  • Photography Safari

    Mana Pools is every photographer’s dream destination. All you need to do is pack your camera and watch nature unfold right before your eyes in this pristine wilderness.
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Our Camps in Mana Pools

Wildlife

Elephant, eland, buffalo, impala, waterbuck, baboons, monkeys, zebra, warthog and hippo are some of the larger herbivores to be seen regularly on the river terraces as they come out to eat the fallen albida fruit. Lions, leopards, spotted hyena, wild dogs and cheetah are present in the area. Birding is also phenomenal in this region.

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