Iconic, but... Mana Pools, Zimbabwe [61 Days Overlanding Ep 5]

In this video we visit the iconic Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, with its incredibly relaxed elephants. Hippo, hyaena and a lone lion also visit our campsite. We also discuss the things you need to be aware of about Mana Pools to ensure you are not disappointed.
We then pay a quick visit to Matandere in Matusadona, drive the Karoi Binga road and stay at Maabwe Bay on our way to Hwange national park.
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[@overlandersa]

They do seem to be on the rebound. It is certainly a lot better than it was a few years ago.

[@user-xr2ky1ku2o]

That is good hear, as wild life fans, we want to enjoy nature in peace and tranquility.

[@cameronrencken3723]

Hi. Great video - thanks for sharing. Which campsite is this and who did you contact to book? Is their power at the campsites?

[@overlandersa]

Thanks! The campsite at Mana Pools is Nyamepi, which is a Zimparks campsite which can be booked via Zimparks central reservations. No power. The campsite at Matusadona was Matandere Springs - also a Zimparks campsite. No power or ablutions. Maabwe Bay is a private campsite and can be booked by contacting Margot Donalson on [e-mail], or phone/Whatsapp [phone]. I think they do have power. As we were there out of season we did not book beforehand.

[@alidapretorius5890]

Lekker, lekker, lekker! Goeie mense op die pad is so 'n riem onder die hart ...

[@overlandersa]

Inderdaad!

[@markyeadon7271]

I think Mana has seen the last of me. It’s just got too expensive. South Luangwa is only a day further away and wild life camp is 10 usd per night with hot showers, a restaurant & pool.

[@overlandersa]

Yes, Mana Pools is certainly expensive, especially if you are only two people. If I remember correctly Chitake Springs would have been more than USD 250 per night, which was just too expensive for us. Wildlife Camp in South Luangwa is a great bargain, although a bit crowded. For a wilderness experience Central Kalahari and the Botswana side of Kgalagadi is even closer. Hwange is also a good option, where tourist density was lower than in Mana Pools.

[@beverleyriyete]

Even Mazoe now is expensive.....😢

[@overlandersa]

@@beverleyriyeteWhere is Mazoe? It does not ring a bell...

[@raymondchikuku1809]

​@@overlandersa he is talking about Mazoe juice. A popular orange juice in Zim. Don't know why that came up.

[@raymondchikuku1809]

Also try Gonarezhou National Park

[@steveculhane7279]

Thanks for telling it like it is. Heading that way in a month (solo), at a 130$ a night, I will definitely give Mana a miss

[@overlandersa]

Thanks, I trust that you will enjoy your trip!

[@rooftile883]

Zimbabwe could have been the number one Africa adventure destination if it wasn't for poor administration. It has it all: remote Wild Parks, Zambezi river, Kariba dam, Vic Falls, etc.

[@overlandersa]

They do seem to be on the rebound. It is certainly a lot better than it was a few years ago.

[@henryhunter1876]

Why do white South Africans go to Zimbabwe to complain? Go to UK for christ sake.

[@henryhunter1876]

Do you just enjoy complaining about Zimbabwe? I don't get it. Go to Kruger national park.

[@rooftile883]

@@henryhunter1876 Not complaining, rather feeling sad about it.

[@henryhunter1876]

@@rooftile883 This is a country that has gone through hell. Its a miracle they still exist. Anyway thanks for the clarification.