Mana Pools National Park is a piece of Zimbabwe that is truly wild and remote, away from the crowds. The Zambezi River adds to this magic, with the river and surrounding floodplains boasting with large pods of hippo, crocodiles, large herds of elephant, buffalo and other beautiful antelope species. The real Africa comes alive here, with unfenced camps offering you an intimate Africa safari experience. You can expect close and intimate experiences with some of Africa’s most iconic species, including lion and leopard, but also the rare and endangered African wild dog. The birding is also spectacular here, with close to 400 bird species recorded here. A birding highlight is the southern carmine bee-eaters breeding along the riverbanks, which can be spotted from your canoe (kayak) or boat.

Mana Pools National Park is a true haven for Africa’s endangered wildlife. It is renowned for the packs of African wild dog that occur here, which found fame in the 2018 David Attenborough documentary “Dynasties”. However, current population estimates predict that only 20-30 dogs now survive here, the lowest number in 10 years, which means they are now more vulnerable than ever before. As of winter 2020, a new pack of wild dogs, the Mpindo pack, relocated from the Mpindo area, consisting of three adults and 16 youngers will be released in September 2020. 

In Mana Pools your luxury safari experience is truly immersive, with all unfenced camps and lodges offering a refreshing mix of land and water-based safari experiences during daily game drives, guided bush walks, canoeing safaris and boat cruises. Bush walks, canoeing safaris and boat cruises offer a more up close and personal Mana Pools experience. Leisurely canoeing safaris offer you the chance to experience the true essence of the Zambezi River, getting close to swimming elephants, large pods of hippo and sunbathing crocodiles, while being safely guided by a highly trained and professional private river guide. The best time of the year to visit Mana Pools is the winter months from April to September, as Park access is limited from November to March due to summer rains and localized floods.