Mana Pools spreads along the Lower Zambezi, where large hippo pods fill the channels and can be watched at eye level from a drifting canoe. This fenceless, uncrowded wilderness is reached by light aircraft or a long dry-season drive, giving raw, close encounters on foot, by canoe and by vehicle. The dry season from May to October draws animals to the shrinking river and peaks in September.
Mana Pools spreads along the Lower Zambezi, where large hippo pods fill the channels and can be watched at eye level from a drifting canoe. This fenceless, uncrowded wilderness is reached by light aircraft or a long dry-season drive, giving raw, close encounters on foot, by canoe and by vehicle. The dry season from May to October draws animals to the shrinking river and peaks in September.
Up to 88% sighting chance in Mana Pools, Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe. Best months: September, August, October.
Yes, guided canoe safaris are a Mana Pools signature, run by licensed guides who read the pods and keep a safe, wide line since hippos are dangerous.
Most visitors fly in by light aircraft, or drive several hours of rough track from Harare in the dry season only.
Guided canoe and walking safaris run roughly 400 to 800 USD per person per day at fly-in camps (2026 prices).
