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

Camp Chitubu

Located in Hwange National Park, Camp Chitubu blends luxury and wilderness for an unparalleled safari experience. This exclusive camp offers eco-friendly tented suites and stunning views, inviting guests to immerse in Zimbabwe's iconic wildlife sanctuary.

Whether admiring the majestic elephants at Mandavu Dam or embarking on a thrilling game drive through the vast savannah to spot the elusive African wild dog, Camp Chitubu ensures that every moment is filled with both adventure and luxury.
Camp Chitubu
Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge is set high on the cliffs overlooking the Save River and the fabled Gonarezhou National Park.

Gonarezhou is 'big game country' in a region of Zimbabwe that is as wild as one can get. Wildlife here includes all the cats, rhinos, buffalos and elephants to mention but a few.
Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
Linkwasha Camp

Nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park, Wilderness Linkwasha Camp offers an extraordinary escape into one of Africa's most captivating landscapes. This exceptional camp is designed for those who seek genuine connection with nature and an immersive safari experience.

Here, every experience—from awe-inspiring wildlife encounters to tranquil moments under the vast African sky—is crafted to create lasting memories, ensuring that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative adventure in the wilderness.
Linkwasha Camp
Zambezi Expeditions Camp

Zambezi Expeditions Camp, a semi-mobile camp is a fantastic option for exploring and experiencing all that is on offer within Mana Pools.

Expeditions Camp is aimed squarely at those who want and need to get away from the modern world when on safari in the famed Mana Pools.
Zambezi Expeditions Camp
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.
Tembo Plains Camp
Big Cave Camp

Big Cave Camp is located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site; it is here that one gets the chance to explore the boulder fields, Rhodes Grave and World's View, track rhinos, and view rock paintings when out on game drives.

The surrounding Matobo Hills is as a spectacular a destination as one with find in Southern Africa.
Big Cave Camp