Mana Pools National Park

Located in Zimbabwe's remote and wild northern region, Mana Pools combines the Zambezi River, flood plains and steep hills of the escarpment into one of Africa's most beautiful and awe-inspiring national parks teeming with both wildlife and birdlife alike.

Mana Pool is home to a remarkable concentration of wildlife, including; lion elephant, buffalo, leopard, cheetah, wild dog and hyena, to mention only a few.

Mana Pools National Park Facts

Size: 2 200 kms
Location: Northern Zimbabwe
When to visit the park: The dry season (winter and autumn)
Altitude: varies between 350 to 1 200 metres above sea level
Accommodation: Lodges In Mana Pools

Where is Mana Pools National Park located?

Located in the far northern region of Zimbabwe, the park is found between the Zambezi River and the Zambezi Escarpment opposite Zambia and the Lower Zambezi National Park.

To the east of the Park is Lake Kariba and to the west is Cahora Bassa dam in Mozambique, all connected by the Zambezi River.

Click on this link to view for your self where Mana Pools is located on a Google Map; Google Maps - Mana Pools National Park

Best Time to Visit Mana Pools National Park?

The dry season is the best time to visit; when the summer rains start, a vast area of Mana Pools and surrounding safari areas become inaccessible, making accessing certain lodges and regions by vehicle impossible.

A few lodges and camps do, however, remain open year-round as they are accessible via boat and vehicle.

Note; November is a month known for incredibly high temperatures in the Zambezi Valley; we would suggest avoiding this period if you can.

Information On Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park comprises 2 200 km² of some of the wildest and remotest regions in Southern Africa. Combine the National Park with surrounding 'safaris areas' (Sapi Safari Area (1 180 km²) and Chewore Safari Area (3 390 km²) and all of a sudden one gets to realise just how big the total wildlife area actually is, 6 770 km² in total.

This total area combined is a 'UNESCO World Heritage site'.

Just as a little fun exploring experiment, click on the above Google map links, change it to 'satellite view', now zoom in and out of the area. Note how there are no towns, no roads, and no farms; this is what wildest Africa at its best looks like.

Mana Pools and the Lower Zambezi National Park are within our top 5 best wildlife destinations to visit in Africa; the Zambezi Valley is truly spectacular.

Main Attractions Of Mana Pools National Park

Canoeing safaris
Boating excursions
Tiger fishing
Birding and wildlife photography
Predators
Huge herds of elephants
Large pods of hippos
Stunning lodges and camps

Bomani Tented Lodge

Bomani Tented Lodge in a private 5000-acre reserve just outside Hwange National Park offers up game drives, horseback safaris, and walking options for guests, birding in the summer months is spectacular.

The perfect Zimbabwe safari lodge and wilderness experience in Hwange for families and romantics alike.
Bomani Tented Lodge
Daka Plains Camp

Nestled in Hwange National Park, Daka Plains Camp offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure. Perfect for those seeking a genuine connection with nature, the camp features elegantly furnished tented suites that ensure comfort and privacy.

Amid Africa's remarkable wildlife, guests can explore stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity through guided activities. Whether on thrilling game drives, peaceful walks, or night safaris, Daka Plains Camp promises an unforgettable safari experience.
Daka Plains Camp
Deteema Springs Camp

If you're looking for an amazing Zimbabwe safari experience, look no further than Deteema Springs Camp! Situated close to the Deteema dam in the Hwange National Park, this camp offers beautiful views of elephants and other wildlife.

Guests will love the chance to go on a walking safari in Hwange and see everything up close!
Deteema Springs Camp
Ruckomechi Camp

On the western boundary of the Mana Pools National Park, nestled in a large grove of Acacia and Mahogany trees.

Ruckomechi Camp overlooks the Zambezi River with a superb view of the mountains of the start of Africa's Great Rift Valley Escarpment.
Ruckomechi Camp
Shongwe Lookout

Shongwe Lookout is a boutique guesthouse set in the stunning landscapes of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Nestled in one of the world's most stunning locations, Shongwe Lookout offers luxury and exciting outdoor activities, making it a memorable spot for adventure seekers.

Immerse yourself in African culture and landscapes with well-designed accommodations, offering relaxation and adventure. With thoughtful amenities and opportunities for exploration, Shongwe Lookout is the perfect place to enjoy Victoria Falls and create lasting memories.
Shongwe Lookout
Linkwasha Camp

Nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park, Wilderness Linkwasha Camp offers an extraordinary escape into one of Africa's most captivating landscapes. This exceptional camp is designed for those who seek genuine connection with nature and an immersive safari experience.

Here, every experience—from awe-inspiring wildlife encounters to tranquil moments under the vast African sky—is crafted to create lasting memories, ensuring that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative adventure in the wilderness.
Linkwasha Camp