Lake Kariba

Zimbabwe, Africa

Lake Kariba is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and stunning sunsets, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, offers exciting activities such as fishing, boat cruises, and wildlife spotting in the adjacent Zambezi National Park. With diverse wildlife, including elephants and hippos, it's perfect for eco-tourism and relaxation. Whether you seek serene waters or the thrill of adventure, Lake Kariba is captivating for its beauty and rich biodiversity.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Body of Water

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Kariba

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Lake Kariba

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a sunset cruise

Sail on the lake while enjoying stunning sunsets.

Booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wildlife safari

Experience diverse wildlife in natural habitats.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kariba Dam

Explore the impressive engineering marvel of Kariba Dam.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go fishing

Try your luck at catching tigerfish in the lake.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Binga

Visit the scenic town known for its culture and crafts.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Go bird watching

Spot over 400 species of birds in the area.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Siavonga

Discover the charm of this lakeside town in Zambia.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the shoreline

Relax and enjoy the scenic views of the lake.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-12 (#174 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Zimbabwe Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Shona

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sadza

VE

Cornmeal porridge, staple food. (National dish)

Muriwo Unedovi

VE

Vegetables with groundnut sauce.

Nyama

Grilled or stewed meat dish.

Mopane Worms

Edible caterpillars, high in protein.

Mapopo Candy

VE

Candied papaya, sweet treat.

Phrases to learn

English

Shona

Hello

Mhoro

(Mm-hoh-roh)

Yes/No

Ehe / Kwete

(Eh-heh / Kweh-teh)

Thank you

Ndatenda

(N-dah-tehn-dah)

Excuse me

Pamusoroi

(Pah-moo-soh-roh-ee)

How much?

Inga nani?

(Een-gah nah-nee)