The Mana Pools Protection Area has the Zambezi River as its northern boundary. This river is also the international boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The area abuts onto National Park and game management areas in Zambia. The Mana Pools National Park is over 2 000 kmsq and forms the core of the Conservation Area. The Park is flanked by Safari Areas totaling over 10 000 kmsq. The contiguous block formed by the Mana Pools National Park and the Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas is a World Heritage Site.
Landform, Geology & Soils
The major feature of the Mana Pools Protection Area is the Zambezi valley. However, large parts of the area cover the rugged escarpment and upland areas. Many sites have fossil and petrified wood. Also several known sites with dinosaur footprints.
Water Resources
Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River are most important water sources for the area. In addition, there are a number of important seasonal rivers draining the escarpment and upland areas. Seasonal pans are another important local source of water.
Climate and Vegetation
The vegetation of the area is largely determined by elevation with the higher ground dominated by Brachystegia/Julbernardia woodlands. Vegetation on the lower ground is variable with Mopane woodlands being more important in the west. The Zambezi River and its larger tributaries support extensive riverine communities. Two vegetation types found in the area are relatively localised and important in the jesse (a dense thicket dominated by Combretum sp.) and the Pod Mahogany (Faidherbia albida).
Wildlife
The area supports a full spectrum of wild mammals common to the region. The Zambezi River is obviously a focal point for dry season concentrations but there are other places where permanent water can be found such as Chitake springs in the Mana Pools NP escapement area. The river also contains spectacular populations of crocodiles and hippopotamus.
Neighbours
The Zambezi River forms the international boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Zambian side has a National Park and two game management areas, which have protection and sustainable use of resources amongst their core functions. Most other areas adjacent to the Conservation Area are communal land (in Zimbabwe) or open areas (in Zambia). Part of the area has a contiguous boundary with Mozambique and a community wildlife area is in the process of being established here.
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