Lake Kariba

Overview

Lake Kariba is the world's largest man-made lake and reservoir by volume. It lies along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and it is renowned for its stunning sunsets, wildlife, and water-based activities.

Lake Kariba is a significant hydroelectric power source and a major tourist attraction in Africa, known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife.

Lake Wildlife Reserve Tourist Destination

Location

Address

Coordinates: -16.88208677, 27.97499641

Neighborhood: Lake Kariba Area

Coordinates

-16.882087, 27.974996

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$15

Children

$5

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

1-2 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

pleasant

• birds
• flowers

summer

hot and rainy

• water sports

autumn

cool and dry

• sunsets

winter

cool and dry

• star gazing

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella rain gear

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• heat exhaustion
• malaria risk

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $10

parking $5

food $15

souvenirs $10

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 2-3 weeks
• official website
• 72 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Lake Kariba Guide

Size: 45 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Harare International Airport

Distance: 250 km

Travel Time: 3.5 hours

taxi

$150 3.5 hours

public_transport

$20 4.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2 15 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Natural beauty and wildlife

Historical Significance: Important hydroelectric project

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning
Best food at local eateries

Local Recommendations

• Try local fish
• Ask for guide John

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Mhoro

thank_you Taurai

where_is Chipi

how_much Chiri

beautiful Makuru

ticket Chitiko

Guide Languages: English, Shona

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lake Kariba Dam Wall

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Great shot

#travel #adventure

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas private properties

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy restricted

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Matusadonha National Park

Distance: 30km

Walking: NA

Type: National Park

Chete Island

Distance: 10km