Day 1 

Begins with arrival into Mana Pools, either by charter flight or road transfer to Nyamepi Main Camp. From here, guests are met by their guide and enjoy a leisurely game drive of around 30 kilometres through the floodplain, an area known for its high concentration of wildlife. This introduction offers an excellent orientation to the landscape and its animals before arriving at the first camp, where lunch is served. 

Safari drives may take you away from the river, to investigate the different inland habitats and the diverse occupants that make up the ecology of the area. You can walk to explore and learn about the area, with your Professional Guide - one of the best way to experience the incredible diversity of animals, insects and flora at Mana Pools. The guide carries a weapon at all times. Mana is famous for its bull elephants, and if you are lucky enough to encounter one of these gentle giants on foot, it is an experience never to forget!

Day 2

In the afternoon, a short transfer takes guests to the canoe launch point near the confluence of the Ruckomechi and Zambezi Rivers. After a comprehensive safety briefing and paddling introduction, the first gentle canoeing session begins, allowing time to get comfortable on the water while spotting wildlife along the riverbanks. The day ends at camp with sundowners, hot showers, and a three-course dinner prepared by the bush team.

Day 3 

Starts early as the camp comes to life at dawn, with tea, coffee, and light refreshments served around the fire. Guests set off on the river in time for sunrise, one of the most atmospheric moments of the safari, as the sounds of the bush build around you. After a few hours of paddling downstream, breakfast is enjoyed under shady trees. The late morning offers the chance to explore on foot with a guided walk through the floodplain and surrounding woodland, often providing opportunities to track wildlife and observe smaller details of the ecosystem. The remainder of the day follows a relaxed rhythm, combining canoeing, wildlife viewing, and time at camp, where the support team ensures everything is prepared ahead of arrival.

Day 4 

Follows a similar pattern, with an early start and more time on the river, covering new stretches of the Zambezi. The pace remains unhurried, allowing for frequent stops, wildlife sightings, and appreciation of the scenery. Depending on conditions and guest interest, activities may include additional walking safaris or time spent simply drifting and observing the abundance of birdlife and animals drawn to the water. Evenings continue to be a highlight, with campfire gatherings, excellent meals, and the sense of being fully immersed in a remote wilderness.

Day 5

A shorter final morning, with time to enjoy a relaxed breakfast and soak up the last views of the river before returning by vehicle to Nyamepi or the airstrip for onward travel. A full English breakfast is typically served on this final day, bringing the safari to a comfortable and satisfying close.

The minimum on scheduled trips is 2 people and the maximum is 8 , however please note we can accommodate more people by special request.

Private safaris can be arranged with a minimum of 4 people, booked well in advance. Low season is through the summer months, November to April, high season is May to October. October to March is hot and can have rainfall.