Mana Pools National Park
National ParkFeatured DestinationUNESCO World Heritage

Mana Pools National Park

Zimbabwe 2,196 km² (848 mi²) Est. 1963

About Mana Pools National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools is legendary for its walking safaris and canoe trips. The park is famous for elephants standing on hind legs to reach high branches and for some of Africa's most intimate wildlife encounters on foot.

3

Safari Tours

4.8

Avg Rating

4/5

Big Five

63

Years Protected

Highlights

  • World-class walking safaris and canoe trips
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Intimate wildlife encounters on foot
  • Stunning Zambezi River scenery
  • Legendary professional guides

Considerations

  • Extreme heat in peak season (October)
  • Closed during wet season (November-April)
  • High malaria risk zone
  • Remote with limited facilities

Wildlife

Big Five Status

🦁

Lion

common

🐆

Leopard

occasional

🐘

Elephant

common

🦬

Buffalo

common

🦏

Rhino

Not present

Notable Species

Lion

Common

Leopard

Occasional

Elephant

Common

Cape Buffalo

Common

Zebra

Common

Hippo

Common

Eland

Occasional

Waterbuck

Common

Impala

Common

Wild Dog

Common

Fish Eagle

Common

Lilac-breasted Roller

Common

Crocodile

Common

Common Occasional Rare

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal

Climate Overview

Getting There

Fly to Harare and take a charter flight to one of several airstrips in the park, or drive approximately 5-6 hours from Harare via Chirundu.

Nearest Airport

Mana Pools Airstrip

Nearest City

Harare

Drive Time

5.5 hours

Mana Pools National Park

3 tours available