Zimbabwe’s answer to its lack of coastline, Lake Kariba is a superb destination to relax for a few days in front of lapping shores, spectacular vistas, and iconic wildlife encounters.
The largest artificial lake in the world by volume, spanning a length of 140 miles and stretching up to 25 miles wide – creating a volume four times that of China’s epic Three Gorge’s Dam. It’s the result of the building of a dam and the flooding of Kariba Gorge between 1958 and 1963, in the process leading to a fascinating story of animal rescue.
Situated on the River Zambezi between Victoria Falls to the west and Mana Pools National Park to the east, the Zimbabwean shores of Lake Kariba are home to no less than four important protected areas: Chizarira and Matusadona national parks and Charara and Hurungwe safari areas.
Stunning lodges dot their landscapes, facing out towards the orange glow of the setting sun to an orchestra of grunting hippos and calling birds. The waters of Lake Kariba provide a habitat for species as diverse as fish eagles and cormorants.
Large numbers of elephant, alongside buffalo, lion, cheetah, and leopard all roam its edge within sight of game vehicles. Explore by boat, and you’ll also have the chance to tackle tigerfish on a game fishing expedition.
Recommended Lake Kariba Tours
Zimbabwe Travel Guide
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Top Zimbabwe Travel Destinations
Great Zimbabwe / Harere / Hwange National Park / Mana Pools National Park / Matobo National Park / Victoria Falls
The Big Five
African Elephant / Cape Buffalo / Leopard / Lion / Rhino
