Mana Pools National Park, encompassing an impressive 219,600 hectares in northern Zimbabwe, stands as a pinnacle of natural preservation and a beacon for wildlife enthusiasts. This remarkable conservation area, situated along the lower Zambezi, transforms into a sprawling expanse of lakes following each rainy season, creating an unparalleled sanctuary for a plethora of large animal species. As these water bodies recede, the park becomes an epicenter for game viewing, drawing visitors worldwide to witness one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife spectacles.
The uniqueness of Mana Pools is encapsulated not only in its dynamic ecosystem but also in its distinguished recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a title it shares with the adjacent Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas, encompassing a combined area of 676,600 hectares. Further elevating its global significance, Mana Pools was designated a Ramsar wetland of international importance in 2013, highlighting its critical role in biodiversity conservation and the protection of aquatic wildlife.
The park's name, 'Mana,' meaning 'four' in Shona, references the quartet of permanent water bodies formed by the Zambezi's meanderings. This landscape of river frontage, islands, and forested areas is a sanctuary for diverse fauna, including the largest concentrations of hippopotami and crocodiles in the country, and a rich array of mammal species such as elephants, zebras, and Cape buffaloes. The region is vital for the conservation of several threatened species, notably the eastern black rhinoceros, which, despite significant poaching challenges, represents a key component of the park's conservation success stories.
Spectacular area with real wild camping. Not for the faint of heart.
Elephant visit to the camping spots almost guaranteed. Abundant wildlife and beautiful landscape.
Tanya Grace Pamberi
5
Reviewed: 2024-07-03
Life changing experience getting to be so out there in the wild. Such an adrenaline rush. Camps have clean and functional facilities as well.
Dmitry
5
Reviewed: 2024-05-15
This park is a UNESCO heritage site located close to Zambian border. We enjoyed seeing various birds and animals: lions, elephants, hyppos, watrhogs, several species of antelopes, etc. Safari was perfectly ogranised by Kanga camp.
Hardus Lategan
5
Reviewed: 2023-07-09
You will understand why people talk about Mana Magic once you have been there. Really wild wilderness at its best. Stunning landscapes and endless photographic opportunities. The massive tree canopy with the game under it and the well known elephants standing on their hind legs to reach the highest branches makes for an unforgettable holiday. You can walk with the animals if you paid for that permit. You camp in between all the animals. Be careful and take it serious as it is not for sissies or chancetakers. Appreciate the wilderness and keep your distance.
Shirley Sword
5
Reviewed: 2022-04-09
Beautiful national park with spectacular birding opportunities, depending on the time of year that you visit. One of the few places where you can self-drive, but I certainly wouldn't advise it, given the condition of roads, and the prolific wildlife there. No cell signals or internet anywhere, but with all that natural beauty around, you don't even miss it! Loved staying at Nyamatusi Camp, run by African Bush Camps!
Kirsten Kohler 
Tanya Grace Pamberi 
Dmitry 
Hardus Lategan 
Shirley Sword 
