Mana Pools National Park

Echoes From A Rugged UNESCO Heritage

Set along the Zambezi River's southern shores, Mana Pools National Park is a sanctuary where nature and tranquillity flourish. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is revered for its rugged landscapes and exceptional wildlife encounters.

Visitors can delve into pristine environments that host an abundant array of animals from majestic elephants to stealthy predators. The park's unique feature of allowing walking safaris offers an intimate experience with nature, while canoe trips provide serene explorations of the river's ecosystem. Mana Pools is a destination where the call of the wild is the essence of every adventure.

Top Experiences

Things To Do & Highlights

Mana Pools National Park

Explore the Wilderness on a Guided Trail

Journey through the park on a guided wilderness trail, experiencing close encounters with nature and endangered wildlife.

Mana Pools National Park

Bird Watching Extravaganza

Mana Pools is a bird watcher's paradise with numerous species visible in their natural settings. Bring your binoculars for an up-close look at the grey-crowned crane and more.

Mana Pools National Park

Experience Tranquil Fishing

Fish in the peaceful waters of the Zambezi River. Relax in the serene wilderness and perhaps catch a big one amid the stunning backdrop of Mana Pools.

Mana Pools National Park

Thrilling Game Drives

Go for morning or afternoon game drives to see Mana Pools' endangered species and explore the extensive natural beauty of the park.

Mana Pools National Park

Canoe Safari Adventure

Paddle through the Zambezi River on a canoe safari, observing hippos and other wildlife from the water by day and camping under the stars by night.

Navigate To Know

Mana Pools National Park Map

Enriching Counters

Iconic Wildlife

Mana Pools is renowned for its diverse wildlife including four of the Big Five—lion, elephant, leopard, and buffalo. The park's untouched nature supports a vibrant ecosystem, making it a crucial habitat for numerous species.

Mana Pools National Park
Baboons
Mana Pools National Park
Hippo
Mana Pools National Park
Dog
Mana Pools National Park
Eland
Mana Pools National Park
Impala
Mana Pools National Park
Waterbuck
Mana Pools National Park
Zebra
Mana Pools National Park
Warthog

Best Month To Visit In Zimbabwe

The Best Time to visit Zimbabwe spans from May to October for supreme wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around diminishing water sources. May to October is perfect for observing Zimbabwe's rich wildlife, thanks to lower water levels that bring animals to accessible spots. November to March is excellent for cultural explorations and bird watching due to fewer tourists. Meanwhile, Victoria Falls is most spectacular from April to June, when it swells with rainwater, offering dramatic vistas.

Choose a month to learn more
RAINY SEASON
SHOULDER SEASON
DRY SEASON

January, a rainy month in Zimbabwe, offers lush landscapes and quieter parks, ideal for those looking for tranquillity and lower travel costs. Although wildlife is more dispersed and harder to spot due to the dense vegetation, the reduced visitor numbers provide a more personal experience of the natural beauty, including greener views and flowing waterways.

February in Zimbabwe features high water levels at Victoria Falls, offering spectacular views of its powerful flow. The heavy mist may obscure direct views, making this a perfect time for aerial tours, such as helicopter rides or microlight flights, to fully appreciate the grandeur of the falls from above.
Visit Zimbabwe in March to enjoy the end of the rainy season, with warm temperatures and occasional afternoon thundershowers. This month is ideal for viewing Victoria Falls in its full glory, as the water levels remain high, creating stunning vistas and the famous spray rainbows around the gorges.
April offers a transition with less rainfall and milder temperatures, making it a pleasant time for exploring Zimbabwe's parks. The lush greenery from the rainy season remains, enhancing the scenic beauty of the landscape, and Victoria Falls continues to impress with substantial water flow, minus the peak season crowds.
In May, Victoria Falls is still impressive with considerable water flow, and the weather is conducive for safaris, with vegetation beginning to thin and wildlife becoming easier to spot. This month marks the start of the high season, so advance booking is recommended to secure accommodations and tours.
June's onset of the dry season makes it an excellent time for wildlife viewing. As the landscape dries, animals congregate around waterholes, especially in Hwange National Park, providing fantastic opportunities for sightings of elephants, lions, and other wildlife.
With clear skies and cool temperatures, July is ideal for game viewing and enjoying outdoor activities. Nights and early mornings can be cold, so warm clothing is necessary for early game drives. The clear weather also enhances the experience of canoe safaris and other outdoor adventures.
August offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with dry conditions and sparse vegetation making animals easier to spot. This is a peak month for safari activities, including game drives and walking safaris, with wildlife frequently visiting water sources.
September hosts the annual game count in Hwange National Park, offering a unique conservation experience. Visitors can join local rangers in wildlife monitoring activities, providing a closer look at the park’s diverse species and contributing to conservation efforts .
The heat intensifies in October, drying out water sources and drawing animals to the few remaining waterholes. This provides exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, making it one of the best times to visit Zimbabwe for those eager to see large herds and predators in action.
As the rains begin, November transforms Zimbabwe’s landscapes into vibrant, green environments. This is an excellent month for bird watching, as migratory birds arrive, enhancing biodiversity. Though less popular for general tourism, it's a fantastic time for bird enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter visit.
December sees further rains, enhancing the lushness of the landscapes and offering excellent conditions for bird watching. While Victoria Falls might not be as spectacular due to lower water levels, the natural beauty of the parks is at its peak, and the crowds are fewer, allowing for a more intimate safari experience.

Related Zimbabwe Packages

Discover Zimbabwe with our exclusive safari packages, offering everything from Victoria Falls tours to extensive wildlife safaris in Hwange and Mana Pools. Tailored for unforgettable experiences, explore this beautiful country in style.

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