Zimbabwe: Mana Pools

Park Overview

The flow of the mighty Zambezi River has left behind small seasonal pools, creating the core of Mana Pools National Park. Near the river there are four main large pools, with further smaller pools dotted here and there enabling a wide spectrum of animals to make use of the area. What makes Mana Pools particularly special is it's unique scenery coupled with the large variations of animal and bird life created by its rich and wild heritage. The Park attracts a large number of big game, including elephant, buffalo, kudu, eland, zebra and waterbuck. The Acacia Albida tree, with its protein rich pods are highly prized by numerous species - elephants in particular. Smaller species also make use of Mana Pools' abundant resources. The bird population is extensive, over 300 different species having been found there at various times of the year.

 

Mana Pools is the only game park in Zimbabwe, holding carnivores and the larger mammals, in which visitors are allowed to walk unaccompanied (only at Nyamepi, Main Camp Mana Pools, and of course at your own risk). Throughout the rest of the park, guided walking is an unforgettable experience.

Camps

Description

Price Range
($/person/night)

Ruckomechi

Ruckomechi is situated on the western side of the Mana Pools National Park in the Zambezi Valley, forty kilometers downstream from Chirundu. The camp consists of ten twin-thatched chalets each with en-suite facilities, an open lounge and bar right in the Zambezi River, and a dining area under open thatch. Ruckomechi is well-known for its "bath and loo with a view". Because the camp only caters for a maximum of twenty guests, personalized attention is a key feature. Five professional guides ensure that all guests will have the richest safari experience possible. Ruckomechi’s cuisine has an excellent reputation for wholesome, fresh, home-style cooking. Truly memorable wildlife experiences are a common occurrence in this bush camp. There is no fence, so game is free to wander through the camp.

 

Chikwenya

Situated at the confluence of the Sapi and Zambezi Rivers, in the Mana Pools area, Chikwenya has its own exclusive safari area. Open from April to mid-November, the camp features seven thatched "A" frame lodges with en suite facilities and modern comfort. The open air dining room is located under magnificent Natal Mahogany and affords a splendid view of the river. Activities at Chikewenya include game drives, game walks, game viewing by boat, fishing trips, viewing platforms and hides. The staff includes a professional guide licensed to conduct game walks and two guides licensed to conduct game drives and boat trips.

 

Vundu

Vundu is a beautiful, intimate tented camp situated on the Zambezi River in the Mana Pools National Park. The camp itself comprises five tents (each accommodating two people). These tents are spacious and are insect proof with large gauze covered windows to allow for good air circulation. They are fully furnished. At the front of each tent there is a wonderful verandah/porch for lounging and socializing. Each tent also has a fully serviced bathroom with shower and toilet as well as a lovely view of the river. Due to the nature of the bush in that area, each tent also has its own air of privacy. Activities at Vundu include walking and canoeing safaris, as well as game drives.

 

 
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