Mana Pools National Park
Northernmost Zimbabwe, along the southern banks of the Zambezi River
About
Spanning approximately 2,196 km², Mana Pools lies downstream from the Kariba Dam in Zimbabwe’s Hurungwe District. The park includes four large permanent pools formed by the meandering Zambezi, surrounded by floodplains, riverine woodlands of mahogany, wild fig, ebonies, and towering baobabs, as well as mopane woodlands further inland. Originally designated a game reserve in the 1960s and upgraded to national park status in 1975, Mana Pools is notable for its exceptional wilderness quality, ecological importance, and minimal development, preserving true African safari experiences in a largely untouched environment.
Wildlife
Mana Pools supports high concentrations of hippos and Nile crocodiles and thriving populations of elephants, buffalo, zebra, and various antelope species. It shelters the Big Four including lions, leopards, and the Cape wild dog along with other species like warthogs and brown hyenas. Birdlife includes over 380 species, notably the striking carmine bee-eater which nests along the riverbanks. The park’s seasonal flooding drives diverse wildlife behavior, making it one of the best destinations for game viewing on foot, by canoe, and traditional safari vehicles.
Booking
This experience is operated by Hyperlocal Safari. Please contact our safari experts to reserve a game drive, travel package, and add-on experiences here.
