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

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Big Cave Camp
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Nkosi Guest Lodge focuses on creating a personalised and welcoming experience for every guest. Nkosi prides itself on creating a personalised and welcoming experience for every guest. From well-appointed rooms boasting modern amenities to its tranquil garden setting, the lodge exudes warmth and relaxation.
Nkosi Guest Lodge
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Ilala Lodge