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
- Amalinda Lodge
Amalinda Lodge, truly a family-run gem, is ideally located a mere 45 kilometres south of Bulawayo. This exquisite lodge doesn't just offer outstanding accommodation; it absolutely excels in providing a diverse and immersive array of safari activities.
Guests are passionately encouraged to dive headfirst into the natural wonders and profound cultural experiences that the magnificent Matobo Hills region so generously offers during their stay. Without a doubt, Amalinda crafts an African adventure that is not merely unforgettable, but truly exceptional.
- Nkosi Guest Lodge
Nkosi Guest Lodge, nestled in Zimbabwe's stunning Victoria Falls region, offers comfort, convenience, and adventure. Surrounded by lush landscapes and a short distance from the iconic Victoria Falls, this charming lodge is an ideal retreat for travellers eager to explore the area's wildlife, scenery, and rich cultural heritage.
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.
- Victoria Falls River Lodge
Nestled along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, Victoria Falls River Lodge offers an unparalleled escape into the heart of nature. This enchanting safari lodge combines luxurious accommodations with the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the world's natural wonders.
Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Victoria Falls River Lodge provides a harmonious retreat where unforgettable experiences await at every turn. Prepare to create treasured memories against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery and the exhilarating pulse of the African wilderness!
- 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.
- Camp Hwange
Camp Hwange is set within a magnificent private concession in the Sinamatella area of Hwange National Park, a region renowned worldwide for its extraordinary wildlife and prolific birdlife. One of the best safari destinations and truly ranks among the very finest Southern Africa has to offer.
The wildlife sightings from Camp Hwange are truly unparalleled. Perched majestically overlooking an incredibly productive waterhole, the daily spectacle of animal activity is simply phenomenal, captivating guests with its raw beauty and abundance throughout every single season.
- Singita Malilangwe House
Singita Malilangwe House offers an unparalleled retreat for those seeking supreme privacy, featuring five exquisitely appointed bedrooms, each designed to provide ultimate comfort and breathtaking views.
This exclusive villa is perfect for a small group of friends or family seeking an intimate nature escape. Perched on a dramatic sandstone ridge, the house offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Malilangwe Dam, providing a spectacular backdrop for an unforgettable safari.