Kariba is a captivating town in Mashonaland, situated at the north-western end of Lake Kariba. Known for its year-round warm climate, which can reach extreme heat during the summer months, Kariba serves as the vibrant heart of the tourist industry for the entire Lake Kariba region. The town’s origins are rooted in a bygone era, as it was originally established in the 1950s to house the thousands of workers involved in the colossal construction of the Kariba Dam.
Lake Kariba itself is an awe-inspiring feat of engineering and nature. Completed between 1958 and 1963, the Kariba Dam wall flooded the Kariba Gorge on the Zambezi River, creating the world’s largest man-made lake by volume. The immense body of water now stretches for 223 kilometers and has a shoreline of over 2,000 kilometers, offering endless vistas and a tranquil, almost oceanic, feel.
SIZE
Surface Area: 5,580 km²
Length: 223 km
LOCATION
Border between Zimbabwe and Zambia
WILDLIFE AREAS
The construction of the dam and subsequent filling of the lake had a profound impact on the area, both in terms of landscape and its inhabitants. As the waters rose, a magnificent and historic wildlife rescue operation known as “Operation Noah” was launched. Led by Rupert Fothergill, this five-year-long effort successfully rescued and relocated over 6,000 animals, including elephants and rhinos, to higher ground, primarily within the Matusadona National Park. The legacy of this incredible conservation mission continues to this day, with the park remaining a crucial sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife.
Today, Lake Kariba is a flourishing ecosystem teeming with life. The lake and its shores are home to a wide variety of animals, including crocodiles, hippos, and large herds of elephant and buffalo that can often be seen drinking at the water’s edge. The area is a birder’s paradise, with a healthy population of African fish eagles whose distinctive cry echoes across the water. The lake is also renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for the fierce Tiger Fish, which attracts sport fishermen from around the world.
A visit to Kariba offers a wealth of activities, from tranquil sunset cruises and houseboat safaris to exhilarating game drives in Matusadona National Park. The dam wall itself is a popular attraction, and the town provides a gateway to exploring a region rich in history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
