Mana Pools National Park

Planning a Trip

During the rains, most of the big game animals move away from the river and into the escarpment. They start returning to the riverbank areas from around April, as the pans in the bush dry up.

As the year progresses, increasingly large herds of elephants and buffalos are seen, as well as kudu, eland, waterbuck, zebra, impala and many other antelope species.The game is very relaxed about people on foot, making Manapools one of Africa’s best national parks for walking safaris.

Best time to visit?

The best time for game viewing in Mana Pools National Park is amid the Dry season, that is from June to October. Animals are easy to spot in the park as the dry weather diminishes the thicket and the wildlife concentrates around the Zambezi River.

Getting there?

Getting to Mana Pools National Park can be by either air, 4×4 vehicles (strictly) or boat transfers on the Zambezi River from Chirundu.  Visitors have to note that once they reach Mana Pools, there is little to no access to mobile network coverage and no shops, clinics therefore it is advisable to carry all you need before you reach the park, i.e food stuffs, first aid, accessories, etc. Entry to the park is strictly controlled by the National Parks Authority and prior booking is essential, either through an agent or operator or through the Authority itself.

Accommodation?

There are a number of accommodation options in Mana Pools. These include a number of private lodges, national park lodges/chalets (self catering) and camping sites.

Nyamepi Camp is a popular communal camping site equipped with ablution facilities and a braai area for each camping site. There are also other exclusive camps in the Mana Pools National Park along the Zambezi. Camping in Mana Pools is regarded as the best way to experience the ultimate wilderness of this wonderful place.

Mana Pools temperatures

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