Lake Kariba
Welcome to Lake Kariba National Park, a place that will captivate your senses and leave you in awe of its natural beauty. This park, located on the shores of the world’s 4th largest man-made lake, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Here, you can observe buffalo, zebra, impala, and even the Big Five in their natural habitat. The lake itself is home to Nile crocodiles and a variety of bird species. And if that’s not enough, the stunning sunsets and panoramic views will surely leave a lasting impression. So, are you ready for an unforgettable safari adventure? Scroll down to see what we have in store for you.
Messy eater
Baby africa
On a date
Misty Mornings
Exploring Lake Kariba
Activities To Do
Walking Safari
Discover the park on foot, following trails where wildlife thrives.
Visit The Tonga
Be enticed by the Tonga’ traditional hut, wood work, and their river god Nyami Nyami.
Night Cruises
Delve into Kariba’s nighttime wonders on a roaming night cruise.
Bird Watching
Explore the skies & encounter a myriad of native and migratory birds.
The Safaris We Offer
We cater for a wide variety of interests for those visiting Lake Kariba to ensure a complete experience
Honeymoon Safari
Lake Kariba, an intimate sanctuary amidst Zimbabwe’s unspoiled wilds, beckons honeymooners with promises of unforgettable moments. Guided by experts, explore the wonders of the bush, crafting cherished memories. Let the awe-inspiring grandeur of Victoria Falls serve as a fitting prelude or finale to your Zimbabwean honeymoon safari.
Family Safari
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at Lake Kariba, where nature’s splendor intertwines with exhilarating activities, creating a harmonious haven for young explorers. Immerse yourselves in a hassle-free holiday that nurtures parental bonding while igniting the flames of curiosity in inquisitive minds. Our experienced guides will lead you on a journey of discovery, transforming each game drive, boat cruise, and encounter with wildlife into an adventure tailored to delight every age.
Couple Safari
Craving a tranquil escape from boisterous family camps and the clichés of honeymoon retreats? Our couples safari is your sanctuary, designed to seamlessly blend shared passions with cherished moments of solitude. Immerse yourselves in the untamed beauty of Africa, where every experience is meticulously crafted to rekindle the flame of romance.
Bird Watching Safari
For bird enthusiasts, Kariba is a tapestry of ecosystems teeming with feathered wonders. Summer’s embrace brings a surge of migratory birds, adding their vibrant songs to the chorus of resident species. With over 240 species gracing its skies, Kariba stands as a crowning glory, an open-air sanctuary for bird lovers to explore and cherish.
Tailor-Made Safari
Whether you’re a seasoned safari aficionado or an eager newcomer to the wonders of Africa, our dedicated specialists are here to curate an unforgettable journey that transcends expectations. Embark on immersive adventures that unveil the captivating tapestry of the bush in a refreshing light. Traverse the expansive ecosystem on foot, immersing yourself in the intricate details of the natural world. Glide across the tranquil waters, encountering majestic elephants, hippos, and vibrant birdlife in their natural habitat. Let us guide you on a voyage that ignites your passion for Africa’s boundless beauty.
Horseback Safari
Float along the serene waters of Lake Kariba on a canoe safari, a tranquil immersion into the heart of Africa’s splendor. Surrender to the gentle rhythm of the paddle, glimpsing the breathtaking beauty that graces the lake’s shores. Your experienced river guide will navigate you through a labyrinth of islands, each a haven for a diverse array of birds and small animals. In hushed tones, they will point out the wonders that unfold before you: snoozing hippos basking in the sun, bathing elephants enjoying a cool respite, and herds of zebra, puku, impala, buffalo, kudu, and waterbuck gracefully grazing on the verdant plains.
Why Trust Sound Of Safaris With Your Lake Kariba Holiday?
Responsible Travel
For 5 years, your visits have helped us make a real difference to Zimbabweans. Thank you!
In our hands
While visiting Kariba, enjoy 24/7 access to our distinctive Global Concierge service.
Travel Experts
Our Travel Specialists only recommend destinations they have personally visited.
Finest Guides
Experience the best interpretive adventures with our skilled private and specialist guides.
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
The only place we choose to stay at Lake Kariba
Useful Facts About Lake Kariba
Between the 102 islands and over 5,000 km2 surface area of water, there is plenty to see.
- Elephant: Abundant in Lake Kariba National Park, commonly seen along the lakeshore in large herds.
- Giraffe: None in Lake Kariba National Park.
- Hippo: Abundant in Lake Kariba National Park, frequently spotted in the lake.
- Buffalo: Abundant in Lake Kariba National Park, often seen in large herds along the lakeshore.
- Zebra: Occasional in Lake Kariba National Park, sightings are less common.
- Wildebeest: None in Lake Kariba National Park.
- White Rhino: None in Lake Kariba National Park.
- Black Rhino: Occasional in Lake Kariba National Park, can be tracked on foot.
- Lion: Occasional in Lake Kariba National Park, sightings are common.
- Leopard: Rare in Lake Kariba National Park, sightings are infrequent.
- Cheetah: Very rare in Lake Kariba National Park, sightings are extremely rare.
- Hyena: Occasional in Lake Kariba National Park, sightings are not as common.
- Wild Dog: Very rare in Lake Kariba National Park, sightings are extremely rare.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Clawless Otter: Sometimes seen swimming in the lake, one of Africa’s more elusive mammals.
- Eland, Roan, and Sable Antelope: Inhabits the inaccessible miombo woodland, but may occasionally be spotted near the lakeshore during the end of the dry season when they come to drink.
Malaria is a serious concern in most areas of Zimbabwe and Zambia, including Lake Kariba. Due to mosquito resistance to chloroquine, it is crucial to consult a doctor for appropriate malaria prophylaxis recommendations.
Studded with numerous islands and fringed by majestic mountain ranges like the Matusadona Mountains, the lake presents a breathtaking panorama. The sunrises and sunsets paints the skies with vibrant hues, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to witness this spectacle. Each of the 102 islands possesses its own unique character, constantly changing with the fluctuating water levels.
Cool dry season (May to July):
- Temperatures: Mid-20s°C during the day, 14°C at night
- Rainfall: None
- Game viewing and bird watching: Good
- Fishing: Not as successful as during the hot, dry season
Hot dry season (August to October):
- Temperatures: Very hot, often exceeding 40°C in October
- Wind: Windy in August, making the lake choppy
- Game viewing: Good, with animals congregating at the water’s edge
- Fishing: Prime season
- Bird watching: Good
Hot wet season (November to April):
- Temperatures: Hot and humid
- Rainfall: Frequent thunderstorms in the late afternoons
- Bush: Greens up
- Wildlife: Birthing season, with a good chance of seeing young animals
- Fishing: Good
Best time to visit for game viewing and bird watching:
- May to July
- August to October
Best time to visit for fishing:
- August to October
Best time to visit for seeing young animals:
- November to April
Getting There by Car
Driving to Lake Kariba National Park offers an adventure of its own. The journey from Victoria Falls to Mlibizi or Binga takes about 3 to 4 hours. The road is tarred and in good condition for most of the way. However, the last stretch can be quite bumpy due to potholes. If you don’t have a car, private transfers are available, although they can be quite costly for small groups.
From Harare, the journey to Kariba Town is roughly 365km and takes about 5 to 6 hours due to traffic. Again, private transfers can be arranged if you don’t have a car.
Getting There by Air
Flying to Lake Kariba National Park is another option. However, note that there are no scheduled commercial flights. Instead, you’ll need to charter a private flight. Various companies provide this service, linking Victoria Falls, Hwange, Kariba, Mana Pools, and Harare. Once you land at Kariba Airport, you’ll need to take a short boat ride to reach the different safari camps around the lake.
Getting There by Boat
If you’re up for a unique travel experience, consider taking the Kariba Ferry. This service traverses the entire lake from Mlibizi to Kariba Town and vice versa. It’s an overnight journey, taking about 22 hours. This is a great option if you need to transport your vehicle across the lake. Plus, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Kariba.