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

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Along with a strong focus on complete relaxation, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge features the natural wonders of Lake Kariba.

Having the Zambezi escarpment as its backdrop, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge overlooks the foreshore below and the vastness associated with Lake Kariba.
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
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
Changa Safari Camp

Changa is set in an extremely remote location on the shores of Lake Kariba with views stretching out over the lake and onto the Matusadona mountains in the distance.

Changa Safari Camp in the Matusadona National Park is the perfect safari option for those looking for something different without sacrificing game viewing.
Changa Safari Camp
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
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
Little Ruckomechi Camp

Set on the banks of the iconic Zambezi River in the Mana Pools surrounded by high concentrations of wildlife and birdlife.

Little Ruckomechi Camp, is the perfect safari lodge option for offers seeking the ultimate in luxury and privacy when visiting the Mana Pools National Park.
Little Ruckomechi Camp