Harare, Lake Kariba & Mana Pools

About Harare, Lake Kariba & Mana Pools

Those that travel to Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, will find a laid-back city of wide, tree-lined boulevards, parks and gardens. The National Gallery is a highlight and houses traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean art, including the famed Shona stone carvings found at Great Zimbabwe. 

Mana Pools National Park in the north of the country is on the southern bank of the Zambezi River and is a pristine wilderness area of floodplains, riverine forest and woodland. The river and the four ("mana") pools which are remnants of old river channels attract large numbers of animals including elephants, buffaloes, numerous antelope species, hippos and predators such as lions, leopards and wild dogs. With few camps, this remote park provides an exclusive safari experience and for those with an adventurous side, there are opportunities for walking safaris and canoeing trips, either for a few hours or even for a few days, camping in tents on the river bank. Mana Pools is a superb safari destination and its beauty and wildlife have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. 

When the Kariba Dam was completed in 1958 the resulting Lake Kariba which straddles Zambia and Zimbabwe became one of the world's largest man-made lakes. It has long been a popular playground for fishing, particularly for the fighting Tigerfish, and for spending a few days on a houseboat enjoying the serenity, views, prolific birdlife and game viewing. Matusadona National Park extends inland from the lake with game-rich floodplains, woodland and rugged mountains and is home to elephants, predators and a variety of antelope species. Game drives and boat trips in the company of experienced guides allow visitors to experience this beautiful part of Zimbabwe on both land and water.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email info@africatravel.co.uk

Seasons

• April to November - This is dry season offering peak game viewing time
• November to March - This is rainy season, Kariba and Matusadona remain open but Mana Pools is closed 

Wildlife

African elephants can currently be found in 37 African countries

African Buffalos have a symbiotic relationship with many African birds such as the Oxpecker

Lions spend 16-20 hours of the day sleeping or resting

Leopards can see seven times better in the dark than humans

The scientific name for the African Wild dog means “painted wolf”

In The Know

• Mana Pools is only open from April to November and has limited accommodation so book early
• Prepare for up-close animal sightings on the water, on game drives and on foot
• Lake Kariba is a popular sports-fishing destination and fisherman will be delighted with the energetic Tigerfish which is the prime catch