Mana Sands

With over 400 recorded species, Mana Pools is a birder’s dream. From carmine bee-eaters and Pel’s fishing owl to the iconic lilac-breasted roller, there’s a lifetime’s worth of sightings to be had — whether on foot, by vehicle, or from the comfort of your tent. Our guides are passionate birders, and happy to help you tick off Mana’s most elusive specials.

Canoeing on the Zambezi is an iconic Mana experience — and there’s nothing quite like drifting silently along the water with the escarpment on one side and Mana Pools on the other. Guided by experienced river specialists, our canoe safaris offer a fresh perspective on wildlife, birdlife, and the pulse of the river itself. Depending on water levels and conditions, routes are chosen for safety, serenity, and unforgettable scenery.

For those who like to slow things down, fishing on the Zambezi is as much about the setting as the catch. Try your hand at landing a tigerfish or bream, or simply cast into the current while elephants graze nearby and kingfishers flash past your line. The best fishing is seasonal and dependent on river conditions — ask your guide about the best times and spots.

Game drives at Mana Sands are immersive and unhurried, designed to follow the rhythm of the bush. Our custom-built vehicles seat six guests comfortably (with the option to accommodate up to ten), and every drive is guided by experienced professionals with a deep knowledge of the area. From early-morning light breaking through mopani trees to golden evenings watching lions stir, each drive reveals a new side of Mana Pools.

Mana Pools is world-renowned for its exceptional walking safaris and at Mana Sands, you’ll quickly understand why. Step off the vehicle and into an ancient landscape, guided by some of Zimbabwe’s top professional guides. With every quiet footfall, the bush reveals itself in new ways — from the tracks beneath your boots to the breath of an elephant just beyond the trees. It’s a raw, exhilarating, and deeply personal way to experience the wild.

While night drives aren’t permitted inside Mana Pools National Park, Mana Sands operates within its own private concession, allowing for limited evening drives after dark. As the sun sets and the bush shifts into its nocturnal rhythm, guests may encounter porcupine, genet, civet, hyena, and the glowing eyes of night birds — all under the guidance of your expert tracker and the stars overhead.