Zimbabwe · Safari Guide

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park – Canoe Safaris & Untamed Wilderness

Introduction

About Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Zimbabwe’s most remote, wild, and visually striking safari destinations. Set in the far north of the country, it forms part of the lush Zambezi Valley along the border with Zambia, where wildlife gathers along the riverbanks to drink, feed, and roam freely.

The name “Mana” means “four” in the Shona language, referring to the park’s famous four ancient oxbow lakes that offer rich, year-round water sources. Mana Pools is particularly celebrated for its large populations of elephants, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and predatory lions.

What truly sets Mana Pools apart is the opportunity to experience guided canoe safaris, where you can quietly paddle past wildlife, offering an immersive perspective that complements traditional game drives. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 350 bird species recorded, attracting avid twitchers from around the world.

Let our Zimbabwe safari experts help you craft a bespoke Mana Pools adventure, featuring carefully selected luxury lodges, intimate bush camps, and unforgettable river-based activities.

Curated Safaris

Mana Pools National Park Safaris & Tours

Discover Zimbabwe: Safari Adventures and Untamed Beauty
8 nights + 9 Days Safari

Discover Zimbabwe: Safari Adventures and Untamed Beauty

From $8,800 per person sharing

Destinations visited: Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Victoria Falls

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Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Mana Pools National Park

Seasons & Timing

Best Time to Visit Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park rewards travellers year-round; the months our safari designers most often recommend are highlighted below. Share your dates and we'll fine-tune the timing for wildlife, weather and value.

Jan January Green
Feb February Green
Mar March Green
Apr April Green
May May Good
Jun June Good
Jul July Good
Aug August Peak
Sep September Peak
Oct October Peak
Nov November Green
Dec December Green
Peak — prime wildlife & weather Good — great value, fewer crowds Green season — lush & quiet, lowest rates
Simple & personal

How it works

  1. 1
    Describe your dream trip

    Where, when and how you love to travel — as much or as little as you know.

  2. 2
    We craft it around you

    A specialist who knows these places firsthand curates your itinerary.

  3. 3
    Confirm & start packing

    Refine it together until every day feels right — then we handle the rest.