What is a ‘hidden gem’?  Its described as ‘something which is extremely outstanding and not many people may know about’. 

You’ve heard about it for sure.  Mana Pools National Park.  Perhaps you don’t know much about it and would like to learn more…?

Explore with Us as we take a closer look at this hidden gem regarded as being ‘Zimbabwe’s best park’.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated in the northern region of Zimbabwe on the southern banks of the Zambezi River.  With its spectacular landscapes and rich wildlife, Mana Pools is a paradise for walking and canoeing safaris.  Stunning acacia trees provide much needed shelter for the parks’ more than 12 000 strong elephant population in the dry season.  There is a great chance of seeing hippopotamus, crocodile, elephants and a wonderful array of aquatic birds and possibly even lioness’ hunting around waterholes!

We Recommend

Below we’ve shared our recommendations for some of the accommodation options in the Mana Pools National Park.

Kanga Camp

Known as ‘home of the armchair safari’ experience, Kanga Camp overlooks Kanga Pan – the only water source in the dry season.  The Zimbabwe wildlife are literally on your doorstep as they make their way to this waterhole.  No need to go anywhere because they come to you…

The camp comprises of six tents all raised on a wooden platform for an elevated view over the Kanga Pan.  Each Meru-styled tent is simple yet elegant, boasting floor-to-ceiling mesh windows to let in ample natural light and a light breeze.  All tents are complete with en suite bathroom, flushing toilet, outdoor showers, hot running water and a secluded veranda.  Kanga Camp has a family tent which boasts a wraparound terrace facing the pan with private seating and dining areas.  Relax in the upper deck lounge under the shade of a mahogany tree or sit on the deck below near the splash pool and soak in the uninterrupted views of Kanga Pan’s hyperactive watering hole.

Highlight:  The Kanga arm chair safari allows for guests to enjoy the dramatic action which plays out around the pan as wildlife compete for water during the dry season.

Zambezi Expeditions

Zambezi Expeditions is an exclusive mobile camp overlooking the majestic Zambezi River.

Your days will be filled with adventurous canoeing safaris, tracking game along the shorelines by foot, and fishing for the iconic tiger fish. An absolute must, however, is a game drive in an open 4 x 4 along the flood plains and into the heart of the Mana Pools UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlight: Wildlife wander right through the centre of the camp!

Nyamatusi Camp

Inspired by the traditional custodians of the land who respected the river as the source of life, the design of the camp subtly incorporates the element of water and pays homage to the astounding beauty of the mighty Zambezi River on which it is set.

Consisting of six luxury tented suites with uninterrupted views of the river and escarpment beyond, the camp inspires a feeling of remoteness.

Highlight: Experience an authentic view of the old untouched Africa.  Spend the days walking in the footsteps of ancient explorers and following the tracks of elephant.

Why This Combination?

Each of these camps offers a completely unique experience.  At Kanga Camp, guests can ‘armchair’ their safari experience if they choose.  At Zambezi Expeditions, your tented experience is authentic and ‘down to earth’ and full of adventure.  At Nyamatusi, sit back, relax and enjoy a luxury tented experience where guests can enjoy doing as much (or as little) as they choose.

How Long To Spend In Each Camp

Our Procurement Executive Michelle who has personally experienced all three properties advises 2 nights at Kanga Camp, 3 nights at Zambezi Expeditions and 3 nights at Nyamatusi however, longer and shorter combinations are all possible.

When To Go?

The dry season is from April to mid November.

Distance Between Camps

Transfers between camps are done by road and are treated as a game experience (times are therefore estimated depending on game viewing experiences en-route).  The driving time from Kanga Camp to Zambezi Expeditions is around 1 hour and between Zambezi Expeditions and Nyamatusi around 2 hours.

How To Get There

Mana Pools/Victoria Falls Airport return flights are with Safari Logistics (+- 4 hour flight).

Current Specials

Mana Madness
Receive 50% off flights with Safari Logistics into and out of Mana Pools (all other flights are at standard rates) when staying at any African Bush Camps Zimbabwe properties (Somalisa Camp, Somalisa Acacia, Somalisa Expeditions, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, Kanga Camp, Zambezi Expeditions, Nyamatusi Camp and Nyamatusi Mahogany) but must include at least 3 nights at Kanga or Zambezi Expeditions or Nyamatusi or Nyamatusi Mahogany.  Minimum nights: 6.  Mana Madness is based on a minimum of two guests and is combinable with Long Stay Specials.

Contact Us

Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant today to make a booking.

Email: info@thompsonsafrica.co.za

Tel: +27 31 275 3500

https://www.thompsonsafrica.com/about/contact-us