8 Days

Mana Pools Uncovered

Trip details

Mana Pools Uncovered is a journey into one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas, where the rhythm of the Zambezi River shapes each unforgettable day. Combining the riverside beauty of Camp Mana with the remote exclusivity of Ingwe Pan, this itinerary offers a perfectly balanced safari which is rich in wildlife, immersive walking experiences and intimate bush moments. From iconic elephant encounters to golden sunsets over the floodplains, this is Mana Pools at its most authentic and untamed.

Day 01: Arrival & The Mighty Zambezi
  • Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Harare International Airport; board a scheduled 80-minute light aircraft flight to Mana Main Airstrip.
  • Welcome: Transfer to Mana River Camp, set right on the banks of the Zambezi River.
  • First Safari: Settle into your luxury tented suite followed by an afternoon activity—choose between a game drive or a renowned Mana walking safari.
  • Evening: Enjoy sundowners overlooking the river and dinner under the stars.
  • Morning Activities: Wake up early for the best light. Options include walking safaris to track wild dogs or watch elephants stand on their hind legs, game drives through the floodplains, or canoeing along the Zambezi (water levels permitting).
  • Midday: Relax at camp. Since wildlife often wanders through, you can enjoy an “armchair safari” from your private deck.
  • Afternoon/Evening: Head out for another activity as the heat breaks; conclude each day with sundowners and fireside stories back at Mana River Camp.
  • Morning: Enjoy one last morning activity and breakfast along the river.

  • The Move: Take a 45-minute road transfer inland to Ingwe Pan, located in a secluded private concession.

  • New Perspective: Arrive for lunch and take in the view of the permanent waterhole.

  • Afternoon: Explore this lesser-travelled area, focusing on different habitats like ebony groves and open woodland—ideal for leopard and predator sightings.

  • Safari Routine: Morning and afternoon game drives or guided walks. Because Ingwe Pan is the primary water source in the area, the wildlife often comes to you.
  • Highlights: Track lion and hyena, or walk to an ancient baobab tree for a secluded bush picnic or sundowner session.
  • Evening: Spend your final nights in the bush enjoying the peaceful, unhurried rhythm of the wilderness and starlit dinners.
  • Morning: A final breakfast in the bush before being transferred back to Mana Main Airstrip.

  • Departure: Board your flight (approx. 1 hour 45 minutes) back to Harare International Airport for your onward journey.

TRip highlights

  • World-Class Walking Safaris: Mana Pools is one of the few places in Africa where you can safely approach “standing” elephants on foot. Led by expert guides, these walks offer an intimate, eye-level perspective of the bush as you track wild dogs and watch giants reach for pods in the albida forests.

  • The “Armchair Safari” at Ingwe Pan: While the river is active, the inland Ingwe Pan offers a more secluded experience. Because it features a permanent waterhole, you can often witness leopards, lions, and large herds of buffalo from the comfort of the camp without ever leaving your deck.

  • Zambezi River Adventures: Drifting down the river in a canoe or on a boat provides a unique vantage point for observing hippos, crocodiles, and elephants crossing between islands. The golden afternoon light over the Zambezi escarpment is widely considered one of the most beautiful photographic backdrops in Africa.

What's included

  • Accommodation as specified
  • All meals
  • Laundry
  • Lodge activities
  • Return vehicle airstrip transfers
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (excluding imported and premium drinks)
  • Internal transfers as stipulated
  • All taxes
  • Machaba Safaris Conservation and Community Levy (CCL) of USD 35 per person per night at all camps

What's excluded

  • Premium imported drinks
  • International flights
  • Internal transfers not stipulated
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Discretionary tips

2026 Rates Per Person (USD)

Package rates are seasonal – This rate is valid from 1 – 30 June 2026.

Date
Pricing
High Season
01 July 2026 – 31 October 2026
From USD 8,483.00 Per Person Sharing
High Season
01 June 2026 – 30 June 2026
From: USD 6,752.00 Per Person Sharing
Shoulder Season
01 November 2026 – 15 November 2026
From: USD 6,339.00 Per Person Sharing
Shoulder Season
01 May 2026 – 31 May 2026
From: USD 5,131.00 Per Person Sharing
Cancellations
 
Package Rates
All package rates are subject to availability and may vary depending on travel dates, group size, seasonal pricing and any applicable special offers. As each itinerary is tailor-made, final pricing will be confirmed at the time of quotation and booking.
 
Deposit & Payment Terms
A non-refundable deposit of 30% is required to secure your booking. The full and final balance is due 8 weeks prior to arrival.
 
Cancellation Policy
  • Cancellations must be made in writing.
  • More than 8 weeks prior to arrival: 20% deposit is forfeited.
  • 4–8 weeks prior to arrival: 50% cancellation fee applies.
  • Less than 4 weeks (31 days) prior to arrival: 100% cancellation fee applies.

 

Please note: If flight tickets have been issued, they are non-refundable.

Note: This is an example itinerary.

Our journeys are completely customisable and pricing is seasonal and based on family dynamics as well as children’s ages – Please contact us to discuss your unique family requirements for an accurate quote.

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