Mana Pools National Park is an intimate safari experience. It is remote and therefore more exclusive, with incredible wildlife encounters on offer. Together with the Lower Zambezi National Park, Mana Pools forms part of the Lower Zambezi-Mana Pools Transfrontier Conservation Area, covering an area of 17 745 square kilometres. Mana Pools National Park, located in northern Zimbabwe, is renowned for its awe-inspiring natural wonders and unique wildlife encounters.
Among its many captivating sights, one remarkable behavior has captured the imagination of visitors: the incredible sight of elephants standing on their hind legs. This peculiar behavior, observed mainly during feeding, allows these majestic creatures to reach higher branches or fruits in the trees, showcasing their remarkable adaptability and intelligence. Such an extraordinary spectacle has made Mana Pools a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, where they can witness the remarkable grace and power of elephants in their natural habitat.
Wildlife to spot on safari in Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. Situated along the banks of the Zambezi River in northeastern Zimbabwe it is a game lover’s paradise. It is wild and untamed and delivers on its promise of being a spectacular wilderness. On your Mana Pools safari, you can expect to encounter huge herds of elephant, buffalo, as well as zebra and many other antelope species, congregating alongside the broad Zambezi River. They are followed closely by several predators including lion, hyena, cheetah and wild dog. Due to its range of habitats, from woodland to savannah to cliff and the Zambezi River, Mana Pools holds a healthy and varied birdlife with over 380 species recorded. Some bucket list birds include the Pel’s fishing owl, Lilian’s lovebirds, and the carmine bee-eater which visit every September to nest in the river banks.
Activities and experiences in Mana Pools
Mana Pools is an expansive wildlife conservation area in the north of Zimbabwe and you can be assured of an exceptional safari experience in one of Africa’s most renowned game-viewing regions. Countless species, including members of the Big 5 and various plains game, criss-cross the landscape for an unforgettable game drive. Guided walks in Mana Pools, led by fully qualified and highly experienced guides, are encouraged throughout the year. Close encounters with species like elephants, buffalos and on some occasions even lions are not uncommon.
A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River is a must-do while on safari in Mana Pools. There’s an almost certain chance of seeing hippos and crocodiles, as well as a myriad of other species along the river’s edge and on the surrounding flood plains. A fishing safari in Mana Pools will deliver popular hooks like bream and tilapia while the impressive tigerfish and vundu are up for catch-and-release on the mighty Zambezi River.
Mana Pools National Park Safaris with JENMAN
Make your vacation to Mana Pools an unforgettable experience with the Highlights of Zimbabwe safari package. Wild and untamed and with some of the best game viewing on offer, the spectacular Victoria Falls, a full day’s game drive in Hwange National Park and time on the vast expanse of Lake Kariba are also included in this trip.
