About
Mana Pools National Park lies along the Zambezi, a remote park whose small seasonal pools draw animals in. It suits self-sufficient campers and wildlife enthusiasts prepared to trade comfort for wilderness.
One detailed reviewer splits it into two worlds: dense bush inland, where game is harder to find, and the open floodplain along the river, where it is easier to spot. That visitor rates the sight of elephants rearing up on their hind legs to reach tree fruit as reason enough to come, and calls Mana the place to see wild dogs. Campers describe elephants, hippos, monkeys and hyenas passing through camp, and one group lost their boiled rice to hyenas on the first night. Rangers and park staff are called friendly and helpful.
Comfort is where it falls down. A camper who loved the wildlife found the ablutions dirty and poorly kept, and felt the fees did not match the facilities. A guest in one of the park houses left within a day, describing unfinished renovations, no power except at reception, no signal, brown river water, short mosquito nets and warnings about thieves crossing the river, so keep valuables with you. Rated 4.6 from 310 Google reviews.
Good to know
- Wheelchair-accessible car park