Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s last truly wild safari destinations. Located along the lower Zambezi River, the park is famous for its walking safaris, canoe expeditions, and up-close encounters with elephants, hippos, and predators. With no fences and minimal infrastructure, Mana Pools is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to feel the wilderness—on foot, by canoe, or from a riverside camp beneath the trees.

• “Mana” means “four” in Shona, referring to the four main permanent pools near the river.
• One of the few parks in Africa where walking safaris are a primary activity.
• Elephants often stand on their hind legs to feed from trees—an iconic Mana sight.
• The park floods seasonally, creating lush floodplains teeming with game.

• Go on canoe safaris down the Zambezi—quiet, close, and unforgettable.
• Take guided walking safaris to track elephants, wild dogs, and more.
• Game drives along the floodplains, especially in the dry season.
• Camp wild or stay in remote luxury tented camps along the river.

• Region: Northern Zimbabwe, along the Zambezi River
• Distance: ~7–8 hours by road from Harare or 2 hours by charter flight
• Nearest Entry Point: Nyamepi Camp (main HQ)
• Access: By 4x4 from Chirundu or via charter flight; seasonal roads can be rough

• African elephants (famously relaxed around people)
• Hippos and crocodiles
• African wild dogs
• Lions and leopards
• Eland, kudu, and waterbuck
• Over 350 bird species