There are few places in Africa that capture the soul quite like Mana Pools. Its ancient forests, soft winter light, and deeply intimate wildlife encounters make it a dream destination for photographers. This year, we had the privilege of sharing it with an incredible group of guests on an 8-day photographic safari. I co-hosted this journey with my good friend Marlon du Toit, alongside our partners TandaAfrika, and from the very beginning we knew this adventure would be one to remember.
The Journey Begins
Our safari started in Johannesburg, where we gathered at OR Tambo International Airport to meet our group Ethan, Alan and Daniela. Within minutes, that familiar buzz of excitement began to build, some guests meeting for the first time, others returning to the bush with familiar faces. It already felt like a family forming.
Our first flight to Harare was an easy 1 hour and 30 minutes, and on arrival we were warmly met by our ground-handling team, who made the airport transition smooth and comfortable. Two more guests joined us there Khalil and Maya, and our group was almost complete.
A short one-hour hop later, we touched down in Mana Pools. the heat rising off the dust, the scent of excitement in the air, and the unmistakable feeling that we had stepped into a place ancient and alive. Our guides met us at the airstrip with two private vehicles, and with exclusive use of both our camps, the tone was set for a relaxed, immersive safari experience.
Within minutes of leaving the airstrip we found our first sighting: a small breeding herd of elephants. For one of our guests, Daniela, this was particularly special, elephants are her spirit animal, and Mana seemed to greet her in the most personal way possible.
We arrived at Kanga Camp to the warm sound of singing and smiling faces. MJ and Frank joined us there after a week in Hwange, and with that, our full group was together. The safari had officially begun.
Kanga Camp: Where the Wildlife Comes to You
For two unforgettable days, we immersed ourselves in the wild magic of Kanga Camp. Built around the only permanent water source for miles, Kanga is a magnet for wildlife, especially in the dry season. From the moment we arrived, elephants were everywhere, wandering among the trees, drinking from the waterhole, even stopping by the pool and joining us at lunchtime. There is nothing quite like sharing your space with wild elephants in such a way.
One of the highlights of Kanga is the photographic hide beneath the main deck. Here, at eye level, the world feels different, quieter, more intimate. We spent hours photographing elephants, impala, baboons, buffalo, and even had a leopard pass through one morning. A pride of lions also moved through camp (not while we were in the hide, but close enough to feel completely alive).
Kanga set the tone for the days ahead: raw, authentic, and overflowing with wildlife.
Zambezi Expeditions: Six Days in the Heart of Mana
We left Kanga Camp after a beautiful morning lion sighting, and after an hour’s drive through the bush, arrived at our next home: Zambezi Expeditions. Nestled on the floodplains overlooking the Zambezi River, the camp blends elegance with that authentic, adventurous feel that defines Mana Pools. Canvas tents, beautiful views, bucket showers, and the soundtrack of hippos at night, it was the perfect base for the next six nights.
Waterholes, Forests, and the Magic of Mana
Our days here were shaped by the rhythm of the landscape. We explored the famous waterholes of Mana: Long Pool still held good water and drew in a variety of animals. One golden afternoon, we spent hours photographing hippos glowing in the last light, peaceful, timeless, and beautiful. One of my favorite animals to photograph
But it was the winterthorn forests that stole the show. Those vast, cathedral-like spaces with shafts of light filtering through the branches, it’s one of Africa’s true photographic wonders. Early in the trip we found a large elephant bull stretching up to feed, a perfect sign of what was to come.
We also enjoyed incredible sightings of two beautiful male lions at eye level, resting in the dust beneath the soft golden light of the forest. Mana’s magic was everywhere.
On Foot With Wild Dogs
Mana Pools is one of the few places where you can safely walk with professional Zimbabwean guides inside a national park. Every moment on foot is carefully assessed, ensuring the experience is both safe and respectful for wildlife.
We were fortunate to spend time with African wild dogs on multiple occasions, but twice stood above all. Both times, we approached quietly on foot, settling down low in the dust. To sit at eye level with wild dogs, fully relaxed at a good distance established by our guides, its a rare and deeply humbling experience that none of us will forget.
The Iconic Standing Elephants
No Mana safari is complete without searching for its legendary standing Elephant bulls, and this year, Mana gifted us with 2 of the big bulls that stand on their hind legs.
We first found Boris, the famous elephant known for rising onto his hind legs to reach the highest branches. He treated us to several incredible moments, standing tall against the blue sky.
A few days later, we found Fred, or “Fred Astaire,” named for the gentle dance he performs before rising. Watching him sway, prepare, and lift himself with such grace was extraordinary, a powerful moment that speaks to the uniqueness of Mana Pools.
These giants brought tears, laughter, silence, and pure awe. Mana had given us its heart.
Mana Pools: A Place That Stays With You
Our time at Zambezi Expeditions was filled with laughter around the fire, long discussions about photography, meaningful encounters with wildlife, and a feeling of connection, to nature and to each other, old friends back in the bush together again and guests who now have become friends. Mana Pools has a way of getting under your skin, becoming part of you long after you leave.
There aren’t enough words to truly capture its magic. It’s a place you feel. A place you carry with you. A place that changes you.
Join Us in Mana Pools – October 2026
If Mana Pools has been calling your name, this is your moment.
In October 2026, we are returning for another exclusive 8-day photographic safari, and we would be honoured to share this wilderness with you. Small group, private vehicles, hand-picked camps, and guiding that places you right where the magic happens. Mana is a destination like no other.
Spaces are limited to only 4, and this safari fills quickly each year.
If you feel that spark, that pull, reach out.
Enquire now and secure your place for Mana Pools 2026.
Link to Safari Info – https://francoisfouriesafaris.com/mana-pools/
Video Highlights from Mana Pools 2025:
francois@francoisfouriesafaris.com
See you all out in the field.