The word ‘mana’ is Shona language for four, referring to the number of pools created by the river’s changing course in ancient times. The park consists of river banks, sandbanks, islets and smaller pools. All this, together with the baobab, ebony, mahogany and fig tree forests that frame the area, accounts for Mana Pools’ reputation as the finest national park in Africa.
The history of Mana Pools
The park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 after a plan to flood the area as part of a hydroelectricity project was dismissed. In early 2013, it became a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Threats of mining, drilling, and poaching continue, but since 1982 the Zambezi Society has fought in the best interests of Mana Pools.
The history of Zambezi River is turbulent in places, especially concerning its status as a trade route for slaves. Now, however, it flows serenely through the north of the park and offers some superb opportunities for boating safari or simple appreciation of its sunsets.
Wildlife in Mana Pools National Park
Today the park teems with wildlife, including Zimbabwe’s largest populations of hippopotamus and crocodile in addition to impressive concentrations of elephant and buffalo during the dry season. Other animals spotted frequently are zebra, warthog, waterbuck, eland, impala, monkey, and baboon, feasting on the fruit of acacia trees. Carnivores are less prevalent in these parts, but it is unusual for visitors not to enjoy a sighting of lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyena. And there are over 350 species of bird!
Best Time to Visit Mana Pools National Park
We recommend May to September for both canoeing and walking before the heat really sets in around October. However, if you are able to tolerate temperatures over 38 degrees, you will be richly rewarded with the very best game viewing!
What to do in Mana Pools National Park
Walking, vehicle and canoeing safaris make this area special with elephant bulls and lion being relatively at peace with the guides in the park. This gives rise to heart-pounding yet safe close encounters, unmatched anywhere else in Africa! Zimbabwe’s extraordinarily difficult professional guides license examinations ensure that guides are able to track and walk with dangerous game. This is a huge draw for safari in Zimbabwe generally, let alone in Mana, which boasts several of Africa’s best guides.
Walking safaris in Mana Pools
Mana Pools is situated in the Lower Zambezi Valley. So walks present astonishing vistas of the Zambezi River, with the mountainous Rift Valley Escarpment forming a breathtaking backdrop! The river terraces, studded with Faidherbia albida (a type of acacia), offer safe and easygoing terrain for walkers – and the park’s wildlife is relatively relaxed, unthreatened by human presence here. Herbivores, including elephant and buffalo, graze the shores and feast on the acacias’ fallen fruit, while predators such as big cats and hyena lurk close to the forest borders. It is possible to enjoy some brilliant bird sightings too – the park plays host to approximately 380 species, including specials like the blue-cheeked bee-eater, Lillian’s lovebird, and the rare Pel’s fishing owl!
Mana Pools National Park Location
Mana Pools National Park is located in the very north of Zimbabwe. It is positioned so that its border forms part of the southern bank of the Zambezi River, which in turn is the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
*Please note that man roads in Mana Pools are closed in the rainy season between November and April, and because of this, some of the lodges and camps are closed during the height of the rains, from January to March.