lake kariba

Lake Kariba

  • Lake Kariba is an enormous man-made inland sea situated on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe; one of the largest reservoirs in the world. Lake Kariba offers remarkable natural beauty protected by some of the finest nature reserves on the planet.

Background Information …

Lake Kariba is one of Africa's largest dams and one of the biggest reservoirs in the world; an enormous man-made inland sea situated on the majestic Zambezi River approximately halfway between the river's source and mouth covering approximately 282 sq km of the Zambezi Valley.

The dam was built to produce hydroelectricity for use by both Zimbabwe and Zambia and the town of Kariba was built to accommodate the construction workers between 1958 and 1963. After the dam wall collapsed and the dam flooded, it became known as Lake Kariba, which, today, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Zimbabwe.

Lake Kariba is famous for its house boats and floating chalets. It offers remarkable natural beauty protected by some of the finest nature reserves on the planet and it hosts an abundance of wildlife. The Zimbabwean side of the lake has about 1 000km of shoreline and a number of islands. Elephants can often be seen swimming between the islands and the shore, a sight so typical of Lake Kariba.

Where to find Lake Kariba

Experience Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba is just a short flight (or ferry) away from Victoria Falls and offers the ideal add-on safari for visitors staying in Victoria Falls wanting a two or three night extra on safari. This large man-made lake is bordered by some of the finest parks on the planet and offers a remarkable safari and wildlife experience, not to mention, incredible sunsets.

Lake Kariba is the location of a fantastic array of birdlife, especially water birds. Wildlife in general includes an abundance of crocodiles, as well as elephants and buffalos, which gather at the lakeshore to drink. Other wildlife frequently seen includes impala, lots of hippos, waterbuck and zebra. Lake Kariba offers incredible fishing and birding opportunities.

Activities at the camps and lodges vary, however most include walking safaris, game drives, fishing for the feisty tiger fish, as well as canoeing. If one is staying on a houseboat, activities include lounging on deck, reading a book, or just watching the birds and wildlife along the way. Tender boats are available to take guests from houseboats on fishing excursions.

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