Mana Pools National Park
Ultimate African Safari Experience
INTRODUCTION TO MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK
Mana Pools National Park, nestled along the lower Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its untouched wilderness, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Spanning over 2,196 square kilometers, Mana Pools is a haven for those seeking the quintessential African safari experience.
Here, the beauty of nature unfolds in its rawest form, offering visitors a rare chance to witness Africa's best wildlife in an environment that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Whether you’re interested in a classic Mana Pools safari or a specialised photographic safari expedition, this park has something extraordinary for everyone.
Mana Pools is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. From the iconic elephants and lions to the less common wild dogs, a Mana Pools safari offers the chance to encounter a wide variety of species. The park’s combination of lush floodplains, riverine forests, and the mighty Zambezi River creates a breathtaking backdrop for any safari adventure.
Perfect for All Types of Safaris
Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in a classic safari atmosphere or capture stunning photographs of Africa’s iconic wildlife, Mana Pools delivers on every front. The park is famed for its walking safaris, where you can explore the wilderness on foot, and canoe safaris, where you can glide along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush. This makes it a top destination for both traditional Zimbabwe safaris and specialized Mana Pools photo safaris.​
Seasonal Highlights
The best time to visit Mana Pools is during the dry season, from June to October, when animals are drawn to the water sources, making wildlife viewing and mana pools photo safaris particularly rewarding.
WHY CHOOSE MANA POOLS NATIONAL PARK FOR YOUR SAFARI
OUR SAFARI PACKAGES
Tailored Safari Experiences to Suit Every Adventurer
We offer a variety of Mana Pools safari packages designed to suit different preferences and budgets.
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Classic Safari Tours: A comprehensive experience exploring all of this magical park's varied landscapes and abundant wildlife. Enjoy daily game drives with our expert guides, who will share their deep knowledge of the park's flora and fauna.
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Photographic Safaris: Led by professional guides with decades of experience, our photographic safaris are tailored to help you capture the perfect shots, whether you're a seasoned photographer or an amateur enthusiast.
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Family Safaris: Our family-friendly safari packages are designed to ensure that even the youngest adventurers have an unforgettable experience. With kid-friendly activities and accommodations, it's a perfect way to introduce your family to the wonders of the wild.
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Walking Safaris: Mana Pools is one of the few places in Africa where walking safaris are a key attraction. Accompanied by highly experienced guides, you’ll walk through the park’s floodplains and forests, getting up close to wildlife in a way that’s simply not possible from a vehicle. Walking safaris offer a unique perspective on the environment, allowing you to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem, from tracking footprints to observing the intricate behaviours of animals. This intimate experience is a highlight of many zim safaris.
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Canoe Safaris: If you are seeking a more tranquil safari experience, canoeing on the Zambezi River offers an unparalleled way to explore Mana Pools. Paddle silently past pods of hippos, watch crocodiles bask on the riverbanks, and see elephants wading in the water. Our canoe safaris allow you to experience the park from a different perspective, providing both excitement and serenity as you drift through one of Africa’s most picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re on a Mana Pools safari or exploring Zimbabwe safaris elsewhere, this is a must-try experience.
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Each package is fully customisable, allowing you to create a safari experience that matches your vision.
MANA POOLS PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARIS
Expert-Led Photographic Safaris
While Mana Pools is a paradise for photographers, it remains equally enchanting for those who simply want to soak in the beauty of its truly unique wilderness. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the mighty Zambezi River to the golden floodplains, provide the perfect backdrop for both professional and amateur photographers as well as safari enthusiasts. Mana Pools photo safaris are particularly popular, as they offer unparalleled opportunities to capture the park’s stunning wildlife and landscapes.
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Iconic Wildlife: The park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, making it one of the best places in Africa to see and photograph the "Big Five" and other iconic species. Whether it’s a pride of lions basking in the sun, a herd of elephants marching across the plains, or a leopard stealthily moving through the bush, Mana Pools offers countless opportunities to capture the essence of Africa. These encounters are a key attraction for those seeking both classic Zimbabwe safaris and specialized Mana Pools photo safaris.
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Birding Paradise: With over 420 species recorded, birdwatching in Mana Pools is a delight. Even if you're not a photographer, the sight of a Lilac-breasted Roller in flight or an African Fish Eagle perched above the river is sure to leave a lasting impression. This makes birding a popular activity on many zim safaris.
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Expert Guides: Our guides are not only skilled in wildlife tracking but also in understanding light, composition, and timing - crucial elements for exceptional wildlife and bird photography.
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Prime Locations: Mana Pools is known for its dramatic scenery, from the towering trees that line the floodplains to the expansive views of the Zambezi River. We’ll take you to the best spots for capturing iconic images.
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Equipment Recommendations: We suggest bringing a good telephoto lens, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, and a sturdy mono/tripod to capture the beauty of Mana Pools in all its glory.
CLASSIC MANA POOLS SAFARIS
Experience the Magic of Mana Pools on a Classic Safari
Enjoy a classic Zimbabwe safari in Mana Pools National Park, where you can explore the park through a variety of fully inclusive, guided experiences.
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Guided Game Drives: Traverse the park’s diverse habitats in the early morning or late afternoon. These drives offer prime opportunities to spot big game, including elephants, buffalo, and predators such as lions and leopards.
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Walking Safaris: Mana Pools is one of the few places in Africa where you can safely enjoy walking safaris. Accompanied by highly trained guides, you’ll have the chance to track wildlife on foot, offering an exhilarating and intimate connection with nature.
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Canoe Safaris: For a unique perspective, consider a canoe safari on the Zambezi River. Paddling quietly along the river, you can observe wildlife coming to drink at the water’s edge, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
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Our safaris are designed to cater to all types of travellers, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Stay in Comfort and Style Amidst the Wilderness
Mana Pools offers a range of accommodation options that allow you to experience the park’s wild beauty in comfort. Whether you prefer the luxury of a safari lodge or the authenticity of a mobile camp, you’ll find the perfect base from which to explore the park.
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Luxury Lodges: Experience the ultimate in safari comfort with accommodations that offer stunning views, gourmet dining, and private guides, making your stay during a Mana Pools safari truly unforgettable.
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Bush Camps: For those seeking a more adventurous and authentic stay, our bush camps provide a true bush experience with all the essential amenities, allowing you to be closer to nature and fully immersed in your Zim safaris experience.
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CONSERVATION & RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
Mana Pools is more than just a safari destination - it’s a critical area for wildlife conservation. By visiting Mana Pools, you are supporting efforts to preserve its unique ecosystems and protect its wildlife. Our safaris are designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that your adventure leaves a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Whether on a traditional safari or a Mana Pools photo safari, your journey contributes to the preservation of this natural wonder.
PLANNING YOUR SAFARI
A safari in Mana Pools requires careful planning to ensure you make the most of your experience. Here’s what you need to know:
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Best Time to Visit: The dry season from June to October is ideal for game viewing and offers the most comfortable conditions for walking and canoeing safaris. This period is perfect for both classic Zimbabwe safaris and specialised photographic tours.
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Getting There: Mana Pools is accessible by road and air, with charter flights available from Harare and Victoria Falls. The journey by road is an adventure in itself, offering glimpses of Zimbabwe’s stunning landscapes.
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What to Pack: Bring light, breathable clothing for the day, warmer layers for the evening, and essential gear like binoculars, a camera, and sturdy walking shoes. Don’t forget sun protection and insect repellent to ensure you’re prepared for any Zimbabwe safari adventure.
FAQs
Plan Your Safari with Confidence
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What types of safaris are available in Mana Pools?
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We offer a variety of safaris in Mana Pools, including traditional game drives, walking safaris, photographic safaris, and canoe safaris. Each type offers a unique way to experience the park’s wildlife and landscapes.
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How do I get to Mana Pools National Park?
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By Road: Mana Pools is accessible by road from major cities like Harare. The park is approximately a 6 hour drive from Harare. Self-driving is an option, but guided transfers are recommended for comfort and safety.
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By Air: Mana Pools has its own airstrips, allowing for convenient access via charter flights. Daily flights are available from Harare, Victoria Falls and other regional airports, making it easy to include Mana Pools in a broader Zimbabwean safari itinerary.
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What should I bring on a photographic safari?
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We recommend bringing your camera, a good zoom lens, and plenty of memory cards. Don't worry if you don't have professional equipment – we offer rentals and guidance.
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What should I pack for a safari?
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We have written an article on just this topic. For a more detailed packing list, check out our blog post "The Ultimate African Safari Packing List: What You Really Need to Know Before You Go!"
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Are safaris suitable for families with children?
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Absolutely! Our family safari packages include kid-friendly activities and accommodations, ensuring that even the youngest adventurers have an unforgettable experience.
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What wildlife can I expect to see?
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Mana Pools is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and a vast array of bird species. These encounters are a highlight of any Zimbabwe safari.
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TEMPERATURES
September - November | Hot
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Hottest months.
WEATHER
Temperatures are cooling down.
Early mornings temps 15°C
Afternoons Mid/high 30°C
Nights 18°C.
GAME VIEWING
September - November | Exceptional
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Best time of the year to see game.
BEST PHOTOGRAPHY TIMES
Early mornings & late afternoons.
Night times for nocturnal animals, especially cats and hyena.
GAME MOVEMENTS
The bush is very dry. Water sources in the bush are scarce, therefore game frequent viewing waterholes throughout the day & night.
ANIMALS
Big 5 (Lion, Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino, Leopard)
Elephant | Antelope | Cats | Hyena | Wild Dog | Birds | Reptiles
BOOK YOUR MANA POOLS SAFARI TODAY!
Ready to experience an African safari in one of the continent’s most unspoiled wilderness areas? Contact us today to start planning your dream safari to Mana Pools National Park.
Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild or the allure of the perfect photograph, we offer safari packages that will exceed your expectations.
Book now to experience the magic of a Mana Pools safari and discover why Zimbabwe safaris are among the best in Africa.