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

Little Makalolo Camp

Little Makalolo Camp is actually a pleasant 6-roomed tented camp and also one of the handful of camps situated inside of the Hwange National Park, which in turn provides solitude for visitors who appreciate small camps as well as a feeling of remoteness.

One of only a few safari camps overlooking the Hwange 's Makalolo Plains.
Little Makalolo Camp
Matetsi Victoria Falls

Nestled in the stunning landscape of Zimbabwe, Matetsi Victoria Falls combines luxury and adventure. This exclusive safari lodge on the Zambezi River invites guests to enjoy nature while experiencing exceptional comfort and personalized service.

With an impressive backdrop of diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, Matetsi Victoria Falls is the perfect retreat for those seeking to explore the wonders of the region, all while enjoying the finest in hospitality and amenities.
Matetsi Victoria Falls
Ilala Lodge

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Victoria Falls, Ilala Lodge offers an unforgettable blend of luxury, comfort, and adventure. This charming boutique hotel is ideally situated for guests eager to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the nearby falls, just a short stroll away.

With exceptional amenities, including a refreshing swimming pool, welcoming bar, and the opportunity to experience the stunning Zambezi River through a sunset cruise on the Ra-Ikane, Ilala Lodge is the ultimate retreat for families and adventurers alike.
Ilala Lodge
Victoria Falls River Lodge

Nestled along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, Victoria Falls River Lodge offers an unparalleled escape into the heart of nature. This enchanting safari lodge combines luxurious accommodations with the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the world's natural wonders.

Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Victoria Falls River Lodge provides a harmonious retreat where unforgettable experiences await at every turn. Prepare to create treasured memories against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery and the exhilarating pulse of the African wilderness!
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Somalisa Acacia Camp

Nestled within the heart of Hwange National Park, Somalisa Acacia Camp offers an enchanting retreat for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. With its four luxurious tented suites, this intimate safari camp combines comfort with the thrill of the African wilderness.

Guests can enjoy the stunning natural surroundings, join exciting game drives and walking safaris, or capture moments at the elephant pool. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, Somalisa Acacia Camp offers a memorable experience in one of Zimbabwe's top wildlife destinations.
Somalisa Acacia Camp
Chikwenya Camp

Chikwenya Camp is located at the confluence of the Sapi River and the Zambezi River, on the eastern border of the world heritage Mana Pools National Park.

Chikwenya Camp enjoys an exclusive 7000-acre lease of pristine lower Zambezi floodplain and some 5km of river frontage.
Chikwenya Camp