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

Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel

Nestled in a private game reserve, the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel offers an exquisite retreat near the breathtaking Victoria Falls. With elegant design and exceptional service, this boutique hotel combines luxury and comfort, making it ideal for a tranquil escape.

Guests can indulge in world-class dining at our elegant restaurants, savoring exquisite dishes crafted by renowned chefs. They can unwind in the lavish spa, where a range of rejuvenating treatments awaits to soothe body and mind.
Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel
Mpala Jena

Step into the enchanting world of Mpala Jena, where the splendour of Africa comes alive! This luxurious safari lodge offers an extraordinary blend of adventure and relaxation, perfectly situated along the scenic Zambezi River.

With its elegant design and commitment to sustainability, Mpala Jena serves as a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and travellers alike. From soaking in the breathtaking views to indulging in gourmet meals, each moment is crafted to ensure a memorable experience.
Mpala Jena
Insika Lodge

Nestled on the edge of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Insika Lodge offers a luxury safari experience with stunning natural beauty. Capturing African charm, Insika provides a serene escape with exhilarating adventures.

With a choice of rooms overlooking lush gardens and waterholes, guests can immerse themselves in captivating wildlife and landscapes. At Insika Lodge, each day is a new journey as you explore the Zambezi River, enjoy gourmet meals, and experience the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Insika Lodge
Nehimba Lodge

Nehimba Lodge, spectacularly nestled within its own private safari concession inside Hwange National Park, is, without a doubt, one of the best places to witness truly exceptional wildlife and birdlife sightings throughout the entire year. The sheer abundance and diversity found here are unparalleled, making every moment an incredible experience.

Evenings at the Nehimba are, without a doubt, spectacularly entertaining. You can experience incredibly close encounters with Hwange's famed elephants right at the waterhole—a truly unforgettable sight if one is fortunate enough to witness it.
Nehimba Lodge
Little Ruckomechi Camp

Nestled on the majestic banks of the iconic Zambezi River, deep within the world-renowned Mana Pools, lies Little Ruckomechi Camp. This unparalleled location is a vibrant sanctuary, teeming with an astonishing abundance of wildlife and an incredible diversity of birdlife.

Little Ruckomechi Camp stands as the supreme choice for discerning travelers seeking the absolute pinnacle of luxury and an exceptional sense of privacy during their unforgettable Mana Pools National Park experience.
Little Ruckomechi Camp
Verney's Camp

Verney's Camp is an exclusive private concession in a truly remote and untouched corner of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. This hidden gem offers a safari experience like no other, perfectly blending rugged wilderness with exceptional comfort and charm.

Verney's Camp is renowned for its tranquility and immersive wildlife encounters. Whether you’re gazing across the expansive plains from your luxury tent or sipping a drink as the sun sets over the horizon, every moment here feels like a scene from a dream.
Verney's Camp