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By volume, Lake Kariba is the largest artificial lake and reservoir in the world; it is over 140 miles long and up to 20 miles in width.
It is located on the Zambezi River, about halfway between the river's source and mouth, about 800 miles upstream from the Indian Ocean, and lies along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Lake Kariba was filled between 1958 and 1963 following the completion of the Kariba Dam, flooding the Kariba Gorge on the Zambezi River.
Before Lake Kariba was filled, the existing vegetation was burned, creating a thick layer of fertile soil on land that would become the lake bed.
As a result the ecology of Lake Kariba is vibrant, including fish such as the kapenta and tiger fish, crocodile, elephant, hippopotamus and abundant birdlife such as the fish eagle and cormorant.
A particularly atmospheric and beautiful lake, Lake Kariba will no doubt enchant you with spectacular sunsets and dramatic vistas.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Lake Kariba by contacting one of our Zimbabwe specialists
- 617-223-4370
- Make an inquiry
Suggested itinerary featuring Lake Kariba
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Lake Kariba, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Lake Kariba
- Matusadona National Park 80 kilometers away
- Mana Pools National Park 207 kilometers away
- Victoria Falls 238 kilometers away
- Hwange National Park 259 kilometers away
- The Zambezi Riverfront 274 kilometers away
- Harare 349 kilometers away
- Bulawayo 357 kilometers away
- Matobo National Park 392 kilometers away
Photos of Lake Kariba
Accommodation choices for Lake Kariba
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Lake Kariba. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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![Bumi Hills Lodge main area]()
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Lake Kariba -
![Musango Safari Camp, Lake Kariba]()
Musango Safari Camp
Lake Kariba
Ideas for experiencing Lake Kariba
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Lake Kariba, and which use the best local guides.
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Sundowner drinks on Lake Kariba ![Evening boat safari from Musango Safari Camp, Lake Kariba]()
Sundowner drinks on Lake Kariba
Sundowner drinks on Lake Kariba
Take a boat trip on Lake Kariba as the sun sets. Perhaps try your hand at tiger fishing before relaxing with a cold glass of wine, couple of snacks and beautiful setting sun.
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