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Have an authentic safari experience in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Zimbabwe’s most spectacular safari destinations. Mana Pools National Park is famed for its four large pools of water formed by the Zambezi River, which attracts an array of wildlife. Don’t miss out on walking safaris and canoe expeditions in a pristine wilderness setting!
Must-Visit Areas in Mana Pools National Park
Spending time on the edge of waterholes and springs will reward you with spectacular wildlife sightings, but don’t forget to go inland for a different perspective:
Chitake Springs: Predator-Prey Interactions
Known for its wildlife concentrations, especially predators, Chitake Springs is a perennial water source in a usually dry riverbed. It’s a popular drinking stop for animals, especially during the dry season, which makes it a fantastic area to visit during a Zimbabwe safari. Large herds of buffalo, elephants, and antelopes come here to drink, with predators close behind waiting for hunting opportunities.
Inland Mana Pools: Dense Woodlands
While the pools’ banks are wildlife hotspots during a luxury Zimbabwe safari, inland Mana Pools also has a lot to offer safari goers. Further away from the river, this area is known for its dense woodlands and diverse wildlife, including large elephant herds.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Mana Pools National Park?
June to October, during the dry season, is the time of the year when wildlife is concentrated around water sources, enhancing viewing opportunities and creating the ideal environment for a Zimbabwe wildlife safari experience. The wet summer months – November to March – sees an increase in rainfall, newborn animals, and birds with migratory species flying into the park.
Animals Found in Mana Pools National Park
Four of the Big Five call this park home, with just the rhino being absent. During a Zimbabwe safari, you can see an abundance of elephants, hippos, buffaloes, and zebras. Witness the majestic sight of lion prides and packs of hyenas. The elusive leopard and endangered wild dog can also be found here.
On the birding front, birdwatchers will enjoy spotting the over 400 species in the park including southern carmine bee-eaters, African skimmers, Pel’s fishing-owls, and Lilian’s lovebirds.
How to Get to Mana Pools National Park
From Harare, Bulawayo, or Victoria Falls, you can catch a flight to Kariba Airport. From there, Mana Pools is accessible via charter flights to one of the airstrips in the region.
