Mana Pools & Zambezi Valley

Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage site that represents the untamed heart of Africa. It is located in the Lower Zambezi Valley, where the broad river creates a series of pools and floodplains flanked by mahogany and Albida trees. This destination is best suited for adventurous families with older children or teenagers, as the park is unfenced and wildlife roams freely through campgrounds and lodges. The thrill of seeing an elephant wander past your tent is unforgettable, but it requires strict adherence to safety rules and parental supervision.

The signature activity here is canoeing. Guided canoe safaris allow families to float silently down the Zambezi, viewing game from a completely different angle. You might drift past pods of hippos (giving them a wide berth) and see crocodiles sunning on the banks, while elephants swim across channels. These trips are led by professional guides who ensure safety while teaching kids about the river ecosystem. Walking safaris are also a highlight, allowing you to track lions or wild dogs on foot, though age restrictions often apply (usually 12+ for walking).

The landscape is photogenic, with a blue haze settling over the mountains across the river in Zambia. The famous "Boswell" elephants, known for standing on their hind legs to reach high branches, are found here. Access to Mana Pools is an adventure in itself, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle for the corrugated dirt roads or a light aircraft charter. Accommodation ranges from wild campsites for self-sufficient families to high-end lodges that provide luxury tents and private guides. It is a place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature in its rawest form.