
Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba is one of Zimbabwe's (and Zambia's) best-kept secrets; the lake's vastness creates spectacular panoramas as the sun casts its glow across the shimmering waters catching the distinctive half-submerged trees and islands.
Kariba is not as popular as it should be; this has always confused us as wildlife and birdlife are excellent, especially around the Matusadona National Park and the Chete Safari Area.
Lake Kariba Facts
- Size: 290km long, 32km at its widest, and has a minimum depth of 120metres
- Location: Northern Zimbabwe
- When to visit the park: Year-round
- Altitude: 500m
- Accommodation: Lake Kariba Lodges
Where is Lake Kariba located?
An easy question to answer, Lake Kariba is located on the north-western border of Zimbabwe. The Zambezi River and Kariba form the borders between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Click here to see the location for yourself on Google maps; Google Maps - Lake Kariba
Best Time to Visit Lake Kariba?
The Lake is a year-round destination when it comes to visiting. Summers are hot with rainfall, while winters are mild and dry.
Information On Lake Kariba
Visit the second-largest man-made dam in the world, Kariba, for game viewing, birding, photography, fishing and houseboat cruises.
The Lake (which is actually a dam) is 290km long, 32km at its widest and has a minimum depth of 120metres and was opened by the Queen Mother in 1960.
Lake Kariba's dam wall contains over a million cubic metres of concrete and 11 000 tones of steel and stands 126 metres high, and it took 10 000 men four years to build. The Dam wall is a spectacular sight in itself and can be photographed and visited by going through the Zimbabwean border post near the town of Kariba.
Main Attractions Of Lake Kariba
- Kariba dam wall
- Fishing
- House Boats
- Wildlife
- Birdlife
- Photography
- Sunsets
- Matusadona National Park
- Chete Safari Area
- Surrounding panoramas
- Camp Chitubu
Located in Hwange National Park, Camp Chitubu blends luxury and wilderness for an unparalleled safari experience. This exclusive camp offers eco-friendly tented suites and stunning views, inviting guests to immerse in Zimbabwe's iconic wildlife sanctuary.
Whether admiring the majestic elephants at Mandavu Dam or embarking on a thrilling game drive through the vast savannah to spot the elusive African wild dog, Camp Chitubu ensures that every moment is filled with both adventure and luxury.
- Camelthorn Lodge
Camelthorn Lodge is located in a pristine acacia forest near the southern edge of the famed Ngamo Plains just outside the Hwange National Park.
Safari activities in which one can partake, including day and night drives, Hwange horseback safaris and the exciting "pump run" all-day game drive.
- Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
Nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park, Bumbusi Wilderness Camp offers an enchanting retreat, inviting guests to reconnect with nature in an idyllic setting. This spectacular safari lodge seamlessly blends into the stunning landscape, offering an authentic experience amidst nature's beauty.
With its meticulously crafted stone and thatch chalets, Bumbusi serves as an inviting sanctuary where comfort meets adventure. Guests are treated to a wealth of activities, from guided walking safaris to immersive wildlife experiences, ensuring that each moment at the camp is nothing short of unforgettable.
- Big Cave Camp
Big Cave Camp is located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site; it is here that one gets the chance to explore the boulder fields, Rhodes Grave and World's View, track rhinos, and view rock paintings when out on game drives.
The surrounding Matobo Hills is as a spectacular a destination as one with find in Southern Africa.
- Masuwe Lodge
Step into a world where the wonders of nature seamlessly blend with refined elegance at Masuwe Lodge. This intimate safari lodge, nestled near the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, offers an exclusive escape into Zimbabwe's untamed wilderness, ensuring you feel privileged and special.
Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or peaceful relaxation amidst stunning landscapes, Masuwe Lodge, as a destination, invites you to discover the beauty and diversity of Africa in all its glory. With a variety of activities, from game drives to river cruises, adventure enthusiasts will feel excited and eager to explore.
- Khayelitshe House
Khayelitshe House is an exclusive use option best suited for a small group of friends or family on a safari together located just outside the Matobo National Park boundary.
Khayelitshe Guest House is within easy access of the national park and all of the attractions that are found in the Matobo Hills.