Flood damage renders Mana Pools inaccessible

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has advised tourists against travelling to Mana Pools National Park after heavy rains caused extensive damage to infrastructure, leaving the popular wildlife destination largely inaccessible.

In a statement dated March 26, ZimParks said key access roads had been severely affected, including the destruction of part of the Rukomechi Bridge and damage to the access road shortly after crossing the Runese River.

"Mana Pools National Park has been severely impacted by the recent heavy rains in the Zambezi Valley, which have caused significant damage to key infrastructure… As a result, most roads into the park are currently impassible," the authority said.

The damage has rendered most routes into the park unusable, with authorities warning that the situation makes road travel unsafe during the current Easter holiday period.

ZimParks has urged visitors with existing bookings for March and April 2026 to contact the authority for alternative arrangements, including rescheduling or credit notes.

"Walk-in self-driving visitors are strongly advised to avoid travelling to Mana Pools National Park until further notice," the statement added.

The wildlife authority said it is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as restoration efforts continue, while cautioning tourists to prioritise safety and avoid attempting access through damaged routes.