Day 1: Victoria Falls to Lake Kariba – Zimbabwe

This 4-day Lake Kariba Houseboat Tour in Zimbabwe begins when you board your light aircraft flight from Victoria Falls Airport to Kariba Airport. From here you will be collected and transferred to Lake Kariba.

The excitement mounts as you step onboard your houseboat accommodation for a safari experience like no other. This unique houseboat cruise is a leisurely exploration of both Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park in Zimbabwe. It takes place aboard the Malachite Cruise Boat, a luxurious 60-foot pontoon vessel designed for comfort and exploration on the stunning waters of Lake Kariba.

• Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
• Activities included: Daily 3-hour boat cruise

Days 2 to 3: Lake Kariba & Matusadona National Park – Zimbabwe

Spend the next 3 days cruising on Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Cruise across its vast, shimmering waters while soaking in the stunning beauty of the landscape and basking in the warm African sunshine, all from the comfort of a fully equipped safari houseboat.

This luxurious houseboat features six air-conditioned ensuite cabins, a spacious sun deck featuring a jacuzzi and gas braai (barbeque), and all the modern amenities necessary for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re unwinding in comfort or preparing for an exciting day of exploration, every detail is designed for an exceptional experience. Our houseboat trip is guided by a dedicated professional crew, including a captain, chef, and two deckhands, ensuring seamless service throughout your safari stay.

For those with a passion for fishing, Lake Kariba is a paradise. With over 40 fish species, including the elusive and prized tigerfish, the lake offers an exceptional fishing experience that will thrill both amateur and experienced anglers.

Beyond the Lake Kariba houseboat, set off on thrilling tender boat excursions along the shoreline of Matusadona National Park. This stunning park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, crocodiles, and hippos, all waiting to be discovered. For an even deeper connection with nature, embark on a guided walking safari or game drive within the park, allowing you to experience the best of Zimbabwe’s wildlife in both water and land environments.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the iconic Kariba Dam and the nearby chapel. As one of the world’s largest reservoirs, the dam not only provides hydroelectric power to Zimbabwe and Zambia but stands as a remarkable engineering feat, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the vital infrastructure that sustains the region.

Enjoy drinks at the houseboat’s bar or relax in the jacuzzi on deck. As the sun sets, savour a delicious barbecue (braai) on the deck under a canopy of stars, or enjoy a mouthwatering meal prepared by the onboard chef in the cosy galley. After an exciting day, retire to your air-conditioned cabin for a peaceful night’s rest, drifting to sleep on the tranquil waters of Lake Kariba.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Activities included: One guided game drive/walking safari in Matusadona National Park, boat-based activities – fishing, game viewing from the tender boat, visit to the Kariba Dam wall and chapel, daily 3-hour boat cruise

Day 4: Lake Kariba to Victoria Falls

Our incredible 4-day Lake Kariba Houseboat Tour in Zimbabwe concludes today when you disembark from the Malachite Cruise Boat and are transferred to Kariba Airport for your light aircraft flight back to Victoria Falls where your unique safari in Zimbabwe will end.

About the Malachite Cruise Boat

Set sail on an unforgettable safari adventure aboard the Malachite Cruise Boat, a luxurious 60-foot pontoon vessel crafted for ultimate comfort and exploration on the mesmerizing waters of Lake Kariba. Powered by twin 200HP outboard motors, this exclusive houseboat offers a smooth, exhilarating experience, guided by a dedicated professional crew, including a captain, cook, and two deckhands.

The Malachite boasts six exquisitely designed, fully air-conditioned ensuite cabins, ensuring a serene and restful retreat after a day of discovering the lake’s wonders. The expansive top deck, featuring a handmade wooden bar, comfortable lounge and a charming dining area, provides an idyllic space to relax, soak in the panoramic views, and indulge in gourmet meals prepared by your talented cook in the fully-equipped galley. Alternatively, enjoy al fresco dining with a traditional gas braai (barbecue) under the stars.

The Lake Kariba houseboat is equipped with a water filtration system and operates on solar power, supported by a reliable backup generator, ensuring a seamless and sustainable stay. As evening falls, the ambience becomes truly magical. Unwind at the bar with a refreshing cocktail or indulge in the jacuzzi while watching the vibrant sunset over the lake’s horizon.

For those seeking adventure, the Malachite is outfitted with two tenders—a versatile pontoon and a thrilling speedboat—perfect for exploring the lake, engaging in exhilarating activities, or embarking on exciting excursions. Whether you’re looking for tranquillity or an exhilarating safari adventure, the Malachite Cruise Boat offers the perfect boat safari escape on the serene waters of Lake Kariba.

About Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is one of the world’s largest artificial lakes and a remarkable feat of engineering. Created by the completion of the Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River in 1959, the lake plays a crucial role in the region’s hydroelectric power generation while also serving as a beloved tourist destination. Spanning an impressive 5,400 square kilometres (2,080 square miles) and holding a staggering 185 billion cubic meters of water, it ranks among the largest reservoirs globally. The lake stretches 280 kilometres (175 miles) in length and reaches up to 40 kilometres (25 miles) in width at its broadest points.

The dam, located near the towns of Kariba (Zimbabwe) and Siavonga (Zambia), generates vital electricity for both nations but its construction had far-reaching consequences, including the displacement of local communities and significant ecological changes. Despite these challenges, Lake Kariba has become a haven for wildlife, boasting a rich variety of species, including tigerfish, tilapia, and catfish, making it a prime fishing destination. It is also home to an array of large mammals such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, which can be observed in their natural habitat along the shores.

The lake’s several islands, including Chikanka Island and Bumi Hills, offer peaceful retreats with luxury resorts, providing an idyllic setting for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from boating and sailing to game viewing in nearby Matusadona National Park, where boat safaris allow close encounters with elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife.

However, Lake Kariba faces significant environmental challenges. Fluctuating water levels due to droughts and irregular rainfall patterns, as well as issues like siltation, continue to threaten its long-term viability and reduce its storage capacity. The lake’s creation forever altered the local ecosystems, and while it remains a crucial energy source, it has also contributed to a dependency on hydroelectric power that poses challenges during periods of low water levels.

Today, Lake Kariba stands as a unique blend of economic importance and natural beauty. It serves as a vital lifeline for both Zambia and Zimbabwe, generating essential power while offering unmatched opportunities for recreation and wildlife observation in one of Southern Africa’s most scenic regions.

About Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park is an unmissable destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts, offering a captivating blend of wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling adventure.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Kariba in northern Zimbabwe, Matusadona National Park spans 1,400 square kilometres (540 square miles) of pristine wilderness. Established in 1975, this remarkable sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes, where land and water ecosystems harmoniously coexist. The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and the critically endangered black rhinoceros. It also harbours populations of zebra, giraffe, and impala. For birdwatchers, Matusadona is a true haven, with over 400 recorded species, including majestic fish eagles and graceful pelicans.

The park’s location along the shores of Lake Kariba provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from tranquil boating and fishing to exhilarating boat safaris, where hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species can be spotted along the lake’s edge. The park’s rugged hills, lush forests, and serene lakeside views create a stunning backdrop for adventure. Game drives offer thrilling encounters with wildlife while walking safaris allow for a deeper connection with the park’s natural beauty. Despite facing challenges such as poaching and human-wildlife conflict, Matusadona plays a vital role in conservation, particularly in the protection of the black rhinoceros. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October) when wildlife congregates around water sources. However, the rainy season (November to April) brings lush landscapes and abundant birdlife. Whether you’re fishing for tigerfish or simply soaking in the breathtaking landscapes, Matusadona promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Lake Kariba Houseboat Trip Note

This exclusive 4-Day Lake Kariba Tour is the perfect add-on to any safari ending in Kasane, Botswana or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Please contact African Budget Safaris to customize this houseboat tour or get more information.

Combine this Houseboat Trip with Victoria Falls Tours

This houseboat trip combines well with Victoria Falls Tours and wildlife safaris in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Zambia.

For more options and help planning a customized or private safari on a budget, contact African Budget Safaris.