Elephants at the shore, tigers on the line
Overview
Lake Kariba is one of the world's great freshwater wildernesses — 5,400 square kilometres of lake, ringed by game-rich shores and ancient submerged forests. A houseboat safari is the most languid, most distinctive way to experience Zimbabwe's wildlife. Elephants wade into the shallows at dawn. Fish eagles call overhead. Tiger fish detonate beneath the surface. Hippos grunt through the night. The world slows down on Kariba.
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Itinerary
Lake Kariba is one of the world's great freshwater wildernesses — 5,400 square kilometres of lake, ringed by game-rich shores and ancient submerged forests.
Fly or drive to Kariba Town. Transfer to the marina and board your fully staffed houseboat. Cast off in the early afternoon and head east along the Zimbabwean shoreline. First sundowner on the upper deck as the Matusadona Mountains turn amber. Anchor in a sheltered bay. Dinner on deck under a sky full of stars.
Early morning tender boat excursion along the shoreline — elephants wade at dawn, crocodiles bask, pods of hippos surface with a snort. Return to the houseboat for breakfast. Mid-morning tiger fishing — cast into the deep channels where tiger fish patrol. Afternoon drift along the lakeshore watching for game. Sundowner at anchor.
Motor to one of Kariba's game-rich islands. Disembark for a short walking excursion — the islands concentrate game during the dry season. Afternoon fishing or simply watching the lake from the deck. Evening at anchor, fire on the lower deck.
Final sunrise on the water — the light on Kariba at dawn is extraordinary. One last game-viewing excursion by tender boat. Return to Kariba marina for onward connections to Victoria Falls or Harare.
Lake Kariba · ZimbabweHouseboat on Lake KaribaDetails in your proposalDestination photograph. Houseboat confirmed in your proposal.25% charge (deposit) — 90+ days out.
50% charge — 61–90 days.
75% charge — 31–60 days.
A 25% deposit confirms your itinerary.
Requested and confirmed within one working day.
Prices per person, based on two travelling together.
2–10 guests.
Physical level: Easy.
What’s included
Practical
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