Lake Kariba

Tailor-made safaris that include Lake Kariba.

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Where to stay

Lodges in Lake Kariba.

3 lodges across this destination, ordered by what guests pick most. Rates per person sharing, per night.

  1. Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
    Live availability
    01 Lux

    Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

    Bumi Hills sits perched in a pristine wilderness with the gorgeous Zambezi escarpment as its backdrop and the glistening waters of Lake Kariba below.

    Per person sharing, per night, from

    $1,390

    Current offers

    Family

    Traveling with kids? Children aged 0โ€“6 stay FREE, and those aged 7โ€“15 enjoy 50% OFF the adult rate. Just note that all guests under 16 must share a room with at least one adult. T's & C's Apply

  2. Changa Safari Camp
    02 Affordable

    Changa Safari Camp

    Changa Safari Camp is an exclusive, family-owned retreat nestled on Lake Kariba, in the heart of Zimbabweโ€™s Matusadona National Park. Set within a private concession, this hideaway offers a refined and intimate safari experience, where understated luxury seamlessly meets the untamed beauty of the African wilderness.

    Per person sharing, per night, from

    $680

  3. Fothergill - Lake Kariba
    03 Premium

    Fothergill - Lake Kariba

    Set on the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabweโ€™s Matusadona National Park, Fothergill is a luxury safari retreat where adventure, comfort, and conservation come together in one of Africaโ€™s most scenic and wildlife-rich regions.

    Per person sharing, per night, from

    $1,180

    Current offers

    Stay & Pay

    Flights on us deal: Stay 3 nights or more at each Verney's Camp and Fothergill Island and receive 3 free Mack Air flights from Victoria Falls or Harare International Airport to Hwange National Park and Matusadona National Park (return). Minimum of 2 guests. (valid 1 April to 30 November 2026, for new bookings only)

    Combo

    Free flight combo Camp Hwange & Fothergill: Stay 3 nights or more at each Camp Hwange and Fothergill and receive a free one-way Mack Air flight from Hwange to Fothergill. Minimum of 2 guests.

The basics

Why, when, and where.

Lake Kariba, straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is the world's largest man-made lake, offering a unique blend of aquatic adventure, wildlife encounters, and serene landscapes. With its expansive waters and diverse ecosystems, Lake Kariba provides an unforgettable safari experience.

Why

Unique Safari Experiences

Lake Kariba offers a distinctive safari setting where water-based activities complement traditional game viewing. Visitors can enjoy boat safaris, fishing, and houseboat cruises, providing opportunities to observe wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the shoreline.

Scenic Beauty and Sunsets

The lake is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and tranquil waters. The combination of submerged trees, distant mountains, and vibrant skies creates a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and photography.

Fishing and Water Sports

Lake Kariba is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, particularly known for tiger fishing. The lake also supports various water sports, including boating and kayaking, catering to adventure seekers.

When

The optimal time to visit Lake Kariba is during the dry season, from June to October. During these months, wildlife congregates along the lake's shores, enhancing game viewing opportunities. The weather is generally dry and sunny, with cooler temperatures making outdoor activities more comfortable

While the hot dry season from August to October offers excellent wildlife sightings, temperatures can exceed 40ยฐC, and the lake may become choppy due to winds.

Where

Matusadona National Park

Located along the southern shore of Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park offers diverse habitats, including grasslands and woodlands. The park is ideal for walking safaris and boat-based wildlife viewing.

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Perched atop a hill overlooking the lake, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge provides luxury accommodations with panoramic views. Guests can enjoy game drives, fishing excursions, and spa treatments.

Changa Safari Camp

Situated on a private concession within Matusadona National Park, Changa Safari Camp offers tented accommodations with direct lake access. Activities include bush walks, fishing, and sunset cruises.

Musango Safari Camp

Located on its own island, Musango Safari Camp provides an intimate setting for wildlife enthusiasts. The camp offers personalized safaris and cultural experiences.

Fothergill

Fothergill is a captivating safari retreat on the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabweโ€™s Matusadona National Park, where rich heritage and remarkable wilderness combine for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Imagery

Lake Kariba, in pictures.

Recent travellers

Word from people who have just been to Lake Kariba.

Quotes pulled directly from Trustpilot. Where we have specific reviews mentioning Lake Kariba, those come up first. Otherwise these are recent five-star notes from across the trips we have planned.

"We, 3 friends from switzerland (Anna, 62; Jรผrg, 60; Amรฉlie, 21), had a great time with Roy Safaris in Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara. We really recommend to book there. We felt very happy and comfortable with our guide and driver, Ally Kimea. He gave us unforgetable experience in wildlife weโ€˜ve never expected, because of his profound knowlege about aโ€ฆ"
December 2023 ยท TZ ยท Verified on Trustpilot โ†—

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