Established in 1963 Mana Pools National Park is located on Zimbabwe’s northern border, on the banks of the Zambezi River. The Park is rich in wildlife and its 2,190 sq kms are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mana means ‘four’, in reference to the four large permanent pools of Main, Chine, Long and Chisambik formed by the meanderings of the Zambezi River at the middle stage. These pools were formed as the river’s course slowly drifted northward. Reeds, sandbanks, and huge Mahogany and Acacia trees near the river give way to Ebonies, wild figs, Baobabs, and finally to dense Mopane woodland towards the Park’s southern boundary.

Park size: 2190 km²

Proclamation: 1963

GETTING THERE

Mana Pools is quite remote and situated in the extreme north of Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River. Take the A1 Harare to Chirundu national road, 115 KM reach Chinhoyi, 207 KM reach Karoi (the last town where supplies and fuel can be bought) 292 KM reach Makuti. At the bottom of the Zambezi Escarpment, 310 KM turn right at the Mana Pools sign post onto a gravel road, 341 KM reach Rukomechi River, 341.4 KM reach Nyakasikana Gate, turn left for Mana Pools, 377.5 KM ignore right turnoff for the airstrip, 380.5 reach Long Pool on the left, 383.2 KM turn right for National Park HQ, 383.7 KM turn right for National Park HQ, 384.4 KM reach Nyamepi Camp. The gravel roads are in good condition compared to many in Zimbabwe although the clay soil at Mana Pools will cause difficulties after any rain.

Mana Pools is closed during the rainy season from approximately mid-December to the end of February as the gravel roads become impassable. Best game viewing is from June to November when many animals congregate near the Zambezi as there is no water in the interior. Charara Safari Area remains open throughout the year.