Mana River Camp is on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, in the northern part of Zimbabwe. Nestled between this enormous perennial river and the water pan. The pan is particularly enjoyed by elephants for mud bathing. They are common visitors at camp and seem to want to introduce themselves to guests.
The beauty of this camp is that it is a mobile tented camp known as a TEC – Temporary Extended Camp. It is open from 1st May – 15th November every year. The whole camp is taken down at the end of each season. Before the wet season begins. This gives the feeling of the old, real bush, camping experience. The camp is unfenced and many different animals may be viewed from the camp, whilst enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
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Mana River Camp Accommodation
Mana River Camp has 6 x luxury tents of 18m2 each. Perfectly positioned overlooking the mighty Zambezi River. Surrounded by tall mahogany and iconic acacia trees. These frame the Zambezi and attract an abundance of wildlife to the area. Each tent has an en suite bathroom with a shower. And a canvas veranda on which to relax and listen to the gentle rumbling of the river on your doorstep. They offer a comfortable, homely, and authentic safari experience.
Premium quality mattresses, bedding, bathroom amenities, and furnishings ensure luxurious comfort. While low impact structural design and the use of solar energy ensure a low eco-footprint.
Mana River Camp Activities
Mana Pools National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife. You’ll have the opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. Such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles as well as herds of antelope and buffalo grazing on the lush vegetation.
During a stay at Mana River, guests will experience the huge diversity of Mana Pools. From the river and floodplains to the inland wilderness areas. The wildlife viewing, either from a vehicle or on foot is superb. Being in a private concession, guests can also enjoy the privacy of the Pan, uninterrupted by any other camps. Plus, wonderful on-site game viewing, and magnificent night skies.
Walking Safaris
Morning and/or late afternoon game walks. Mana River Camp offers the perfect environment in which to immerse yourself in nature by enjoying walking safaris. Zimbabwean guides are exceptionally experienced and highly regarded. Making walking safaris particularly special in the Mana Pools. On your walk, your safari guide will draw your attention to the details that form part of a bigger story. Such as beetles, animal droppings, scents, sounds, and spoor.
Open vehicle game drives
Game drives take place in the mornings and late afternoons. They tend to focus along the floodplains and game rich river banks where there is a high concentration of wildlife. Here, the Albida trees attract various wildlife due to the source of excellent protein they provide. These trees are the reason the elephants have adapted to standing on their hind legs. To stretch up and reach the delicacies of these Albida trees, especially in the dry season.
Birdwatching
The Zambezi River and the floodplains are the main attractions for birds and birders. However, the diversity of habitats offers many more bird viewing opportunities. With colorful kingfishers, majestic fish eagles, and a myriad of other bird species adorning the trees and skies. There are over 380 species of birds in Mana Pools so it is an excellent birding destination. Your experienced guides will help you identify and appreciate the rich diversity of birdlife in the area. Although birding is good year round it is at its best when the migratory birds are present. This is from November to April.
Photography
Mana Pools is often referred to as a photographer’s dream. No matter what time you travel the unspoiled landscapes and wildlife offer spectacular photo opportunities. To add to the natural beauty at certain times of the year the light in the Zambezi valley is unique. At different times of the day, you can take advantage of the dramatic lighting. These light tones go from golden glows of warm reds, yellows, and oranges. Then at other times, the softer, cooler blue lights add to the depth of your images.
Canoeing
Canoeing on the Zambezi River in the Mana Pools area is an exhilarating and immersive wilderness adventure like no other. The river’s waters wind through untamed wilderness, flanked by riverbanks that teem with life. The calm Zambezi River does occasionally surprise with gentle rapids. These rapids are entirely suitable for beginners, offering an enjoyable and energizing aspect to your adventure. Subject to availability.
Mana River Camp Accommodation Rates
2025 Mana River Camp Accommodation Rates |
Per Person Sharing | Single Supplement | Children 6 – 11 years |
Shoulder Season: 1st – 31st May 2025 | $575 | $173 | $288 |
High Season: 1st June – 31st October 2025 | $830 | $249 | $415 |
Shoulder Season: 1st – 15th November 2025 | $575 | $173 | $288 |
2026 Mana River Camp Accommodation Rates |
Per Person Sharing | Single Supplement | Children 6 – 11 years |
Shoulder Season: 1st – 31st May 2026 | $604 | $181 | $302 |
High Season: 1st June – 31st October 2026 | $872 | $262 | $436 |
Shoulder Season: 1st – 15th November 2026 | $604 | $181 | $302 |
Rates are fully inclusive of accommodation, all meals, laundry, lodge activities, return vehicle airstrip transfer, alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages (excluding imported and premium drinks), taxes, and park fees.
Rates exclude premium imported drinks, international flights, internal transfers, travel insurance, visas, and discretionary tips. Machaba Safaris Conservation and Community Levy (CCL) of $30 per person per night at all camps.
Mana River Camp Accommodation Special Offers
Stay three nights and only pay for two at Mana River Camp
Valid from 1st May until 30th June every year.
Honeymoon Offer
Stay 5 nights between the Machaba camps* and the bride gets a 50% discount on accommodation.
Valid all year (cannot be used in conjunction with another special deal).
Clients must be married within a period of 6 months.
Complimentary couples massage (lodge dependent).
Private dinner included.
Complimentary bottle of sparkling wine.
*The Machaba properties in Botswana are Monachira Camp, Machaba Camp, Gomoti Plains Camp, and Kiri Camp in the Okavango Delta. And Ngoma Safari Lodge in Chobe.
The Machaba properties in Zimbabwe are Mana River Camp and Ingwe Pan in the Mana Pools National Park. Verney’s Camp and Deteema Springs in Hwange National Park.
Mana Pools Zimbabwe