British billionaire Sir Richard Branson – the founder of the Virgin Group – and his family, recently spent time touring Zimbabwe’s prime wildlife. It’s great to see the entrepreneur visiting Zimbabwe, which will certainly help with the push to revive this beautiful country. Whilst the present state of politics in Zimbabwe is by no means perfect, it’s has vastly improved of late, it just needs a bit of help being kick-started again. All the renowned national parks and important tourism destinations are safe to travel in. We are confident of this because of the regular contact and feedback from the long-established relationships we have with our safari partners on the ground. It is also evident that Zimbabwe depends on its parks for foreign exchange income and its citizens will not compromise this precious resource. Sir Richards Branson visit will certainly give this amazing destination a huge boost!
One of the areas Branson’s family spent time at was Mana Pools, which you can fly in to from Johannesburg, Harare or Victoria Falls. Mana Pools National Park is one of those hidden gems, with a beauty that will leave you breathless. In the local Shona language, Mana Pools translates to “four pools” and gets its name from a series of water-filled depressions scattered across the park. It is a UNESCO world heritage site situated on the southern banks of the Zambezi River in northern Zimbabwe. As you traverse the park, you will discover the enchanting beauty of the Zambezi River, offering stunning sunsets and picturesque scenery. Mana Pools National Park is certainly a favourite among nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. These natural pools attract a myriad of rich wildlife and biodiverse wonderland that will delight at every turn, creating a paradise for safarii lovers.
One of the most striking features of Mana Pools is the presence of large herds of elephants. The elephants roam freely throughout the park, ambling along the riverbanks and grazing on the abundant vegetation. There is nothing quite like watching a herd of elephants cooling off in the refreshing waters of the Zambezi, a scene that can be enjoyed from the comfort of a safari vehicle, canoe or even on foot. You can also expect to spot buffalo, zebra, crocodile, hippos and an array of impressive aquatic birds including the striking African fish eagle. There is also a good chance of seeing predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas. The unique aspect of Mana Pools is the freedom it offers visitors to explore on foot, thanks to its extensive network of walking trails. This allows for an intimate experience with nature, as you can get up close and personal with the wildlife, at a safe distance of course. Walking and Canoe safaris provide a different perspective, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and even smells of the African bush. Without question, Mana Pools is a haven for nature lovers, offering a truly authentic African safari experience. I can only see good things ahead for Zimbabwe and Branson’s recent visit can only strengthen this!
