Mana Pools National Park

Zimbabwe, Africa

Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, famous for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and iconic walking safaris. Visitors can encounter elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species up close while enjoying breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains. Its unique blend of natural beauty and opportunities for adventure makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Kariba

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Mana Pools National Park

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Game Drive Safaris

Explore diverse wildlife on thrilling game drives.

Booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Walking Safaris

Experience the wilderness up close on foot.

Booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Canoeing Safaris

Paddle alongside hippos and crocodiles in canoes.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Bird Watching

Spot over 400 bird species in the park.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Fishing Expeditions

Try your hand at fishing in the Zambezi River.

No booking required
6

Est. 12 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Camping Under the Stars

Experience the magic of outdoor camping.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Nyamepi Camp

Relax at a popular campsite with amenities.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography Tours

Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife moments.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-12 (#174 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Zimbabwe Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Shona

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sadza

VE

Cornmeal porridge, staple food. (National dish)

Muriwo Unedovi

VE

Vegetables with groundnut sauce.

Nyama

Grilled or stewed meat dish.

Mopane Worms

Edible caterpillars, high in protein.

Mapopo Candy

VE

Candied papaya, sweet treat.

Phrases to learn

English

Shona

Hello

Mhoro

(Mm-hoh-roh)

Yes/No

Ehe / Kwete

(Eh-heh / Kweh-teh)

Thank you

Ndatenda

(N-dah-tehn-dah)

Excuse me

Pamusoroi

(Pah-moo-soh-roh-ee)

How much?

Inga nani?

(Een-gah nah-nee)