Mana Pools National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Site - Africa's Premier Walking Safari Destination
Africa's Most Remote Wilderness
Mana Pools National Park is a 2,196 square kilometer wildlife conservation area in northern Zimbabwe, along the Zambezi River. The name "Mana" means "four" in Shona, referring to the four large permanent pools formed by the Zambezi River.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Mana Pools is renowned for its pristine wilderness and exceptional walking safari opportunities. It's one of the few parks in Africa where visitors can explore on foot, accompanied by professional guides, offering intimate wildlife encounters.
The park's landscape is characterized by the Zambezi River floodplain, dotted with acacia trees and mahogany forests. During the dry season (April to October), wildlife concentrates around the permanent pools and the river, creating spectacular viewing opportunities.
Mana Pools is famous for its elephants that stand on their hind legs to reach seed pods in the trees, as well as large populations of hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and predators including lions, leopards, and wild dogs. The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise with over 350 bird species recorded.
What to Expect at Mana Pools
Immerse yourself in one of Africa's last true wilderness areas
Walking Safaris
Experience the thrill of walking through the African bush with armed professional guides. Get up close to elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Exceptional Wildlife
Encounter large herds of elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and predators including lions, leopards, and the endangered African wild dog.
Canoe Safaris
Paddle silently along the Zambezi River, observing wildlife from the water. Canoe safaris offer a unique perspective and unforgettable experiences.
Photography Paradise
Capture stunning images of wildlife, landscapes, and the famous elephants standing on hind legs. The golden light and dramatic scenery are photographer's dreams.
Bush Camping
Sleep under the stars in unfenced camps. Fall asleep to the sounds of hippos grunting and lions roaring - a truly authentic African experience.
Bird Watching
Over 350 bird species including fish eagles, kingfishers, and rare species. The diverse habitats support an incredible variety of birdlife.
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season) offers the best wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water sources. May to September is ideal.
Getting There
Accessible by road from Harare (365km) or Kariba. Charter flights available to Mana Pools airstrip. 4x4 vehicle essential for park access.
What to Pack
Neutral-colored clothing, sturdy walking boots, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera, and camping gear if self-catering.
Health & Safety
Malaria area - take prophylaxis. Always follow guide instructions. Never walk alone. Respect wildlife distance. Bring comprehensive first aid kit.
Accommodation
Options include luxury lodges, tented camps, and designated camping areas. Book well in advance, especially for peak season (July-October).
Park Regulations
Walking safaris require professional guides. Respect park rules. No off-road driving. Maintain quiet in camps. Secure all food from wildlife.
Mana Pools Safari Packages
Experience Africa's premier walking safari destination with our expertly crafted packages
Filter by Package Type
Ref: AVR-MAN-001
Walking Safari Adventure
Expert guides
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-MAN-002
Canoe Safari Experience
River adventure
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-LUX-008
Luxury Mana Pools Safari
5-star luxury
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-PHT-006
Photography Safari
Photography focus
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-MAN-003
Wild Dog Tracking Safari
Rare species
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-CLS-003
Mana Pools Explorer
Budget-friendly
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-MAN-002
Zambezi Canoe Expedition
Epic adventure
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-CMB-010
Mana Pools & Kariba Combo
Two destinations
Package Includes
Ref: AVR-GRD-009
Ultimate Zimbabwe Safari
Complete Zimbabwe
Package Includes
Most visitors combine this with Lower Zambezi (4 hrs by road)
Also popular: Victoria Falls · 5 hrs by road
Activities in Mana Pools
Curated experiences hand-picked by our local guides
Most PopularVictoria Falls Guided Tour
$85
Bungee Jump from Vic Falls Bridge
$160
Grade 5 White Water Rafting
$135
Flight of Angels Helicopter
$195
Transfers to & from Mana Pools
Private, door-to-door transfers — no waiting, no sharing
Most BookedHarare to Victoria Falls
Harare → Vic Falls
$420
per vehicleVictoria Falls Airport Transfer
VFA Airport → Town
$35
per vehicleVictoria Falls to Chobe
Vic Falls → Chobe
$110
per vehicleNear Mana Pools
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Mana Pools