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
- 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.
- Tembo Plains Camp
Tembo Plains Camp is a sublime gateway to the captivating landscapes of Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe. Here, the harmony of luxury and nature creates an unparalleled retreat for discerning travellers.
The experience at Tembo Plains is enhanced by a passionate team committed to exceptional service and a strong connection to the wilderness. From arrival, the enchanting sights and sounds of the African bush draw you into an extraordinary adventure, offering an unforgettable safari filled with exploration and wonder.
- John's Camp
Without a doubt, John's Camp in Mana Pools is an absolutely exceptional sanctuary, offering a truly unparalleled classic safari experience. This is the ultimate escape for those who genuinely yearn to disconnect from the frantic pace of the modern world.
This wonderfully intimate tented camp has been meticulously designed for the most discerning adventurers, those who seek to immerse themselves in the very finest and most abundant wildlife and birdlife that the majestic Mana Pools National Park exquisitely presents. It's truly a hidden gem that delivers an unforgettable wilderness immersion.
- 528 Victoria Falls
Nestled in Zimbabwe's stunning scenery, 528 Victoria Falls redefines the safari lodge experience, blending luxury with nature's untamed beauty. This retreat features eight elegant suites, each offering sophistication and cultural charm, inviting guests to relax in comfort.
With personal service from attentive owner-operators, every moment enriches your stay. The lodge's close proximity to Victoria Falls and the vibrant local town ensures an exhilarating adventure is always within reach, promising an exciting and rejuvenating holiday.
- Sapi Explorers Camp
Sapi Explorers Camp is, without a doubt, spectacularly positioned within the magnificent 1180-square-kilometre private Sapi Concession. This exceptional wilderness, bordering Zimbabwe's world-renowned Mana Pools National Park, is one of the most remote and captivating safari destinations in Africa today.
The sense of adventure is heightened by the sheer variety of wildlife, making every moment feel like a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. With its unparalleled setting and the thrill of exploration, this destination promises an experience that redefines what it means to connect with nature.
- Kanga Camp
Kanga Camp is, without a doubt, one of the most exclusive safari experiences in Mana Pools National Park. Nestled in an untouched wilderness paradise, this seasonal camp overlooks the serene beauty of Kanga Pan, offering guests an authentic and intimate connection with nature that is truly exceptional.
The camp prides itself on creating a small, personal experience, with every detail designed to immerse guests in the wild. Game drives and walking safaris provide unparalleled opportunities to explore the stunning landscape and encounter the diverse wildlife that calls this pristine area home.