Habitats

Mana pools are known for the rich alluvial floodplains that line the Zambezi River. There is little undergrowth on the floodplains and they offer unbroken views and high animal numbers, which make them a safari goers dream. The same characteristics also makes these areas perfect for walking safaris. The Zambezi river is wide here and offers the opportunity for the adventurous to embark on multi day canoe safaris upon which you can get spectacularly close to the wild animals of the park.

As you head away from the river the land rises gently through mixed woodlands from ‘Mopane’ woodland to ‘Jesse’ bush and riverine forests. These wooded areas can offer sightings such as crested guinea fowl and nyala that you won’t find on the floodplains.

Seasonality

The dry season runs from about May through to October and this is the best time to visit Mana Pools. The lack of water in the wooded areas attracts large numbers of animals to the floodplains to graze and drink. The animal numbers increase as the dry season progresses however it can get oppressively hot towards October.

From November through to March the rains begin and animals head away from the floodplains and into the woodlands. Mana Pool’s permanent camps close in the rainy season when access becomes problematic and the majority of the animals move into the wooded hills and are harder to see. Many roads in the area close due to the rain and the humidity and insect numbers are high. However for the intrepid self-driver animals can still be sighted in the limited area you can access and Mana is ever beautiful and generous with her bounty.

Sightings

The elephant of Mana in particular are famous for their relaxed nature and their habit of standing upon their back legs to feed on high branches.

Mana Pools also has high numbers of buffalo, impala, kudu, eland, waterbuck, hippo, zebra, baboons and monkey. With these high numbers come accompanying predators- leopard, lion, spotted hyaena and African wild dog as well as cheetah. The Zambezi river is also well stocked with crocodiles best described as leviathan.