Mana Pools

Mana Pools National Park is a legendary wilderness area in northern Zimbabwe, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The name 'Mana' means 'four' in Shona, referring to the four large permanent pools formed by the meandering Zambezi River. It is one of the few places in Africa where visitors are allowed to walk unescorted by a guide, though professional accompaniment is highly recommended for safety. The park's landscape is defined by beautiful forests of albida trees, which attract elephants known for their unique ability to stand on their hind legs to reach the high branches. Canoe safaris along the Zambezi are a hallmark of the Mana Pools experience, providing quiet encounters with hippos, crocs, and elephants. It is also a premier destination for spotting the endangered African wild dog. Accessing the park is an adventure in itself, typically requiring a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle due to the rugged and sandy terrain. Many high-end travelers opt for light aircraft transfers from Harare directly to the park's bush strips. Accommodation options range from unfenced public campsites on the riverbank to ultra-luxury eco-safari camps. The prime time for wildlife viewing is the dry season from July to October, when animals concentrate in spectacular numbers near the water sources. During the 'green season' from November to April, many roads become impassable and most camps close, as the region receives significant rainfall and the soil becomes extremely muddy.

Nearby cities

Kadoma

Kadoma is a key mining and agricultural town in the Mashonaland West Province, known for its gold, copper, and nickel deposits.

Chinhoyi

Chinhoyi is the administrative capital of Mashonaland West and is world-renowned for the stunning Chinhoyi Caves.

Norton

Norton is a thriving industrial and residential town located just west of Harare along the main road to Bulawayo.

Chegutu

Chegutu is a significant agricultural and trading center in the Mashonaland West Province.

Karoi

Karoi is a prosperous agricultural town in the Mashonaland West Province, renowned as one of Zimbabwe's most productive tobacco-growing d…

Kariba

Kariba is a scenic town built on the shores of Lake Kariba, famous for its massive hydroelectric dam and its role as a major tourist resort.

Banket

Banket is a thriving farming town in the fertile Mashonaland West Province, located just south of Chinhoyi.

Chakari

Chakari is a traditional and established gold-mining settlement in the Mashonaland West Province.

Lake Chivero

A vital reservoir and recreational hub near Harare, featuring a game park and diverse bird species.

History & landmarks

Kariba Dam

A massive double curvature concrete arch dam in the Zambezi River basin, forming one of the world's largest reservoirs.

New Parliament Building

A monumental complex at Mount Hampden serving as the new seat of Zimbabwe's legislature.

More places

Chinhoyi Caves (Historical site)

This limestone cave system once served as a refuge for Chief Chinhoyi against raiders.

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Chinhoyi Cropping Area

A productive farming area in Mashonaland.

Zvimba Crop District

A significant area for the production of staple foods.

Empress Nickel Refinery

A base metal refinery dedicated to processing nickel and copper matte.

Kadoma Cotton Region

Center for cotton processing and agriculture.

Fort Martin

A historical fort used during the 1896 uprisings.

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Zimplats Ngezi Mine

A major platinum group metals (PGM) mining operation in the Great Dyke.