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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
- Davisons Camp
Davisons Camp in Zimbabwe, a classic African tented camp located in the private Linkwasha Concession in the south-eastern wildlife-rich region of Hwange National Park.
The camp overlooks a waterhole that is teeming with outstanding Hwange wildlife and birdlife throughout the day and night.
- The Hide Hwange
The Hide in Zimbabwe's famed Hwange National Park offers exceptional safari accommodation suitable for couples, families and romantics alike.
Safari lodge activities available include; game drives, walking options, photographic hides and bush sleep-outs in the wilds of Hwange to mention a few.
- Nantwich Lodge Hwange
Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey at Nantwich Lodge Hwange, where eco-friendly luxury meets the heart of Africa. This enchanting lodge invites you to experience the wild beauty of Hwange National Park while indulging in comfortable accommodations that harmonise with the landscape.
Whether you are seeking thrilling game drives, tranquil bush walks, or wish to unwind amidst nature, Hideaways Nantwich Lodge Hwange is truly a sanctuary for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
- Mpala Jena
Step into the enchanting world of Mpala Jena, where the splendour of Africa comes alive! This luxurious safari lodge offers an extraordinary blend of adventure and relaxation, perfectly situated along the scenic Zambezi River.
With its elegant design and commitment to sustainability, Mpala Jena serves as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and travellers alike. From soaking in the breathtaking views to indulging in gourmet meals, each moment is crafted to ensure a memorable experience.
- Camelthorn Lodge
Camelthorn Lodge is located in a pristine acacia forest near the southern edge of the famed Ngamo Plains just outside the Hwange National Park.
Safari activities in which one can partake, including day and night drives, Hwange horseback safaris and the exciting "pump run" all-day game drive.
- Somalisa Expeditions Camp
Nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park, Somalisa Expeditions Camp provides an enchanting escape into the wild. This safari camp, consisting of only six luxurious tented suites, invites guests to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying exceptional comfort and service.
With stunning views of the floodplain and direct access to a lively waterhole full of wildlife, visitors are assured a memorable experience with the sights and sounds of the African bush. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, Expeditions Camp offers an unmatched safari experience.