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Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, offers a tranquil retreat with opportunities for water safaris, fishing, and viewing fiery sunsets over its expansive waters. This is one of the best destinations for a houseboat safari in Zambia; picture yourself relaxing on deck as you pass hippos and crocodiles in the serene waters and elephants on the banks.
Must-Visit Areas in Lake Kariba
Enjoy serene views of the expansive lake and take in the sheer scale of the dam wall:
Siavonga Town: Riviera of Zambia
Siavonga, a tranquil lakeside town, serves as the main hub for water-based activities on Lake Kariba, including boat cruises and fishing expeditions. The town offers stunning views of the lake, and its calming atmosphere, with the gentle waters lapping at the shore, provides a sense of peacefulness. Nearby attractions include the spectacular Kariba Dam wall.
Kariba Dam Wall: An Engineering Marvel
Construction began on the dam wall in the 1950s; three million cubic feet of concrete was poured into the 36.6 m/121 feet high wall with a thickness of over 24 m/79 ft. This wall sustains the pressure of nearly 10 million litres of water passing through the spillway each second.
Best Time to Visit Lake Kariba
May to October, during the dry season, is the best time of the year to visit Lake Kariba to enjoy pleasant weather and water activities. During the wet summer months – November to March – you can enjoy green scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities as migratory birds have arrived. Fishing in Lake Kariba is considered best around the annual tiger fishing tournament held in October.
Animals Found in Lake Kariba
The lake has high concentrations of crocodiles and hippos. For anglers eager to take to the water, Lake Kariba fishing is focused on tigerfish, bream, and vundu. Head to one of two large islands, Chete or Chikanka, to see kudu, zebra, impala, bushbuck, and elephants.
How to Get to Lake Kariba
It’s a three-hour transfer from Lusaka to Siavonga, and charter flights can be arranged to nearby airstrips.
