In the late 1950s, the Kariba Dam flooded much of the middle Zambezi Valley, creating one of the world's greatest man-made lakes: Lake Kariba. The valley's prolific game was concentrated on its islands and southern shore, where Matusadona National Park was created. Around this shoreline are some excellent safari lodges, offering walks and drives, as well as boat and canoe trips to explore the lake's inlets and creeks. The lake is a superb place to watch the sunset, with the Matusadona Mountains in the background making for an excellent photo opportunity.

There is good game around Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park ranging from herds of elephants through to crocodiles, and including the big five. Antelope and buffalo frequent the area, which bring cats and other predatory animals to the region. Black rhino, one of Africa's rarer animals, can be spotted and there are opportunities to track them along with their more widespread, but no less impressive relative, the white rhino. The bird life is exceptional due largely to the diverse habitation, including a very hlarge population of fish-eagles which are seen very commonly near the lake.

Where to stay at Kariba and Matusadona

Although there are a few hotels in Kariba town, the main attraction here has always been the game in Matusadona National Park, and so our favourite camps are all on the lakeshore:

Spurwing Island

Spurwing Island is an old favourite here, perched on what was once a hilltop. It now offers good guiding, tasty food and 20 simple en-suite rooms (some tents, others chalets) – plus a swimming pool and a large bar/dining area. It is reasonably priced, a good base for exploring Kariba, offers superb game viewing opportunities and is an excellent choice for a peaceful escape. (Read more about Spurwing Island…)

Musango Safari Camp

Overlooking Matusadona, the smaller Musango is a super lodge run by its owner, Steve Edwards, who is a guide of great repute. Musango has a super reputation and a keen following amongst visitors for its excellent wildlife experience; as a side-interest, there are some interesting archaeological sites nearby. Musango offers boating, canoeing, game drives and walks in the national park, which is a good area for tracking black rhino on foot. (Read more about Musango Safari Camp…)

Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

New for 2009, the old Bumi Hills Hotel is now known as the Bumi Hills Safari Lodge. It is now privately owned and has been completely refurbished – with a lovely bar, a snooker room and a spa, plus 20 air-conditioned rooms including 10 suites with balconies over the lake. Activities include walking safaris and game-viewing by boat and vehicle. (Read more about Bumi Hills Safari Lodge…)


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