Mana Pools
Wild Zimbabwe on Foot
Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Zambezi River — the ultimate African wilderness for walking safaris, canoe adventures, and dramatic wildlife encounters on the floodplain.
Best Time to Visit
July to October (dry season) when wildlife concentrates at the pools.
Country
Zimbabwe
Region
Southern Africa
Type
Park
Mana Pools National Park is one of Africa's last true wildernesses — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors are permitted to walk unguided, and where the wildlife has extraordinary tolerance of humans on foot. The park straddles the Zambezi River floodplain, and the retreating flood waters of the dry season leave behind a series of pools (mana = "four" in Shona) that concentrate wildlife in remarkable numbers.
Canoe safaris on the Zambezi — gliding past hippo pods and elephant drinking at the river's edge — are among Zimbabwe's finest experiences. The park's wild dog and lion populations are among its most exciting wildlife attractions.
Highlights
Common Questions
What is the best time to visit Mana Pools?
July to October, the dry season, when wildlife concentrates at the pools along the Zambezi floodplain.
What makes Mana Pools a unique safari destination?
Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for walking and canoe safaris directly on the Zambezi floodplain, offering an intimate, uncrowded wilderness experience with elephant, wild dog, and lion.
Plan Your Visit
Our experts will design a bespoke Mana Pools journey matched to your interests, travel dates, and budget.
