For seasoned safari enthusiasts, nature photographers and bush lovers, spotting wild animals often feels like a dance between luck and patience. When you’re stationed near a reliable water source, however, patience usually pays off.
Nestled on the edge of Mashuma Pan within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mana Pools National Park, our luxury tented camp, Molori Mashuma, offers unparalleled access to this pristine wilderness.
Our camp’s strategic location was no accident. All animals need to drink, and Mashuma Pan serves as a steady water source in the region, drawing animals that few get to see on their safari adventures. Here, patience becomes your greatest ally, as you are almost guaranteed to witness a parade of wildlife coming to quench their thirst during your stay.
Recently, we’ve had some spectacular sightings from our camp’s main deck.
Discover more below!
A Leopard In The Morning
Leopards are notoriously elusive, often concealed within the dense bushveld of Mana Pools. Their solitary and predominantly nocturnal nature makes them a rare sight during daylight hours.
Imagine the thrill and awe when, seemingly out of nowhere, a leopard emerged from the undergrowth to drink in the early morning hours. The scene was mesmerising as the elegant feline crouched beside the water, basking in the morning sun and seamlessly blending in with the dusty hues of the pan.
For a fleeting moment, the majestic cat seemed like a phantom before it vanished back into the brush, leaving onlookers spellbound.
Lionesses At Dusk
Blink and you might miss them, as these lionesses merge almost perfectly with the pan’s banks. Lions generally avoid the midday heat, preferring to visit waterholes early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
We were fortunate to observe two lionesses making their way to the pan together, spending time near camp. Despite their air of regal composure, these apex predators remained highly aware of their surroundings. The interaction with these powerful felines was a reminder of the constant vigilance required in the wild. (Note how one drinks while the other keeps watch!)
The (Fish) Eagle Has Landed
Eagles are meant for the skies, so spotting one on the ground is like seeing a fish out of water!
When perched on solid ground, you truly grasp their impressive size. Female Fish Eagles, notably larger than their male counterparts, can weigh up to 3,6 kg (8 lbs), while males typically don’t exceed 2,5 kg. Their remarkable power-to-weight ratio allows them to plunge to the water’s surface for prey and immediately soar upwards again with ease.
Although eagles usually hydrate through their diet, this rare sighting of a Fish Eagle on land, taking a sip of water, was extraordinary. Observing such a majestic bird momentarily grounded was a rare and unforgettable experience.
A Conglomeration
We were recently treated to a herd of kudu, some impalas and even a wildebeest coming to drink at the the pan.
Antelope find safety in numbers at water sources due to increased vigilance and the ability to spot predators more easily.
Evening rush at the local water hole, as they say.
Splish Splash!
It’s no secret that elephants have a passion for water. If you ever hear a commotion from your tent, it’s likely an ellie having a splashy good time.
Elephants revel in slurping water up with their trunks, swimming, and wallowing, and their enthusiasm for the waterhole is a highlight of any safari experience.
During the scorching summer months, when water sources become scarce, guests at Molori Mashuma are often treated to spectacular shows as elephants flock to the pan for an escape from the heat. Much like warthogs, elephants use the mud from the pan as a natural sunscreen and insect repellent, creating a protective layer that helps shield their sensitive skin.
Stay With Us
At Molori Mashuma, every day brings new wonders and wildlife spectacles. Join us to witness the marvels of Mana Pools National Park, where patience and the thrill of the wild converge in a luxurious setting we’re proud to share with you.
Mana Pools stands out as one of the world’s last truly untouched wilderness areas, providing boundless opportunities for intimate wildlife encounters.
Browse our secluded safari camp’s accommodation options and start planning your safari to one of Africa’s most remote and celebrated locations!
You can book via our online booking platform or by getting in touch with our reservations team at reservations@molorisafari.com.
We look forward to welcoming you to Mana Pools, Zimbabwe!
