Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe)

Lake Kariba is a man-made lake created following the completion of the Kariba Dam which was built between 1955 and 1959 to harness the waters of the Zambezi River and provide hydro-electric power to both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Before the waters rose, some 51,000 people of the tonga tribe had to be resettled on higher ground. Almost 5,000 animals were also rescued in "Operation Noah" co-ordinated by the game ranger Rupert Fothergill. The Zambezi Valey which incorporates Lake Kariba is today one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in Africa. In recent years, high levels of rain have caused ... more

Anyone who has ever been to Lake Kariba knows that there is nothing better than getting out of the sun for a while on those hot forty-degree Celsius days. I have been to Kariba many times and I have yet to find a better place to escape to than the Most High Hotel, which is, as the name suggests, built on a higher point than any other hotel that is over looking the Lake. With clear pools and a lovely atmosphere, I found it be a great place to recover from the heat down by the lake. As you step into the hotel you can feel the nice friendly atmosphere of the family run business. The rooms are ... more

Kariba is located at the north of the country just on the border between zimbabwe and zambia. I have always love going to kariba its the best place in the world.The only thing I hate is it gets so hot it gets hot.the best time to go is during the winter time which is from april to august. The best place to stay is kariba breezes.or if all hotels are booked go on a house boat.you won't regret it you can then go and see any number of wildlife.For those who have not been to kariba do not swim in the water for two reasons there are alot of crocodiles in kariba.the best palce to visit i kariba is ... more

Mud hut village/town on the hilside over looking the lake. This place is really remote but for those who make the effort you will find the warm and friendly Tonga people are worth visiting. They speak a different language to the rest of Zimbabweans (BaTonga) but everyone speaks english anyway. They have a fascinating, colourful culture of drumming and singing. There are beautiful local crafts for sale by the raod in surrounding area - Basketry, carved chairs and table and drums. You can rent boats to take you out on the lake to see the hippos or just to watch the sun go down. There are plenty ... more