Houseboat Holiday on Lake Kariba

Relax and soak up the beauty and tranquillity of one of Zimbabwe's top tourism destinations when you book a houseboat holiday on Lake Kariba.

A houseboat holiday on Lake Kariba is a highly recommended for the sheer peace, tranquillity and relaxation that the environment provides. Floating along on the lake with nothing to do but suntan, read a good book, enjoy a spot of fishing or simply just gaze out at the water, on Lake Kariba, there is nothing to do but just relax.

About the Lake

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Kariba is the largest artificial lake in the world spanning over 5 580 square kilometres (2 150 square miles) and storing around 200 billion tons of water. Located along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe the lake has a number of towns or settlements around it including Kariba, Binga Village and Mlibizi in Zimbabwe and Siavonga and Sinazongwe on the Zambian side.Lake Kariba has several islands in it including Maaze Island, SampaKaruma, Fothergill, Mashape Island, Chete Island, Sekula, Spurwing, Snake Island, Antelope Island, Bed Island Chikanka. Before the lake was filled with water the vegetation in the area was burned leaving a thick layer of fertile soil as the base for the lake's bed and resulting in a vibrant and rich ecology.

Fishing

There are a large number of fish species found in the lake including Kapenta a sardine like fish, and Tigerfish. Many visitors enjoy spending time fishing off the side of the houseboats or in the small dingys.

Game Viewing and Bird Watching

Crocodiles and hippos are regularly seen in Lake Kariba as well as a number of water birds including Fish Eagles, Cormorants, Pied Kingfishers and numerous other water birds. Elephants have been known to saunter down to the banks for a drink of water and their relaxed temperament and close proximity result in exceptional game viewing and photography opportunities. Other game animals in the vicinity include Waterbuck, Buffalo and occasionally Lion.

Sundowners on the Lake

A 'must-do'. After a lazy sun drenched day there is no better way to welcome the evening than with sun downer cocktails or drinks on the deck followed by a delicious meal as the water gently laps the side of the boat. This is Africa at its best.

Houseboats

Houseboats generally sleep between 8 - 14 people while others are larger, almost like floating luxury hotels which are fully serviced and appointed. Houseboats can be chartered from Binga, Milibizi andKariba Town and should be booked in advance to ensure availability.

When to Go

Kariba and the surrounding area experience hot summers with temperatures reaching 38°C (100°F) or higher. The cool breezes that come from the water help to cool the temperature slightly but it can still be unmanageable for some. Winters are warm with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F) and the months of April to August are considered the best or peak months to visit the area.

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