Matusadona & Lake Kariba

Matusadona stretches along the southern shore of Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake, where skeletal drowned trees rise from the water against some of Africa’s most famous sunsets. Once a stronghold for lion and buffalo and degraded over decades, the park is now being restored under African Parks management, with elephant, buffalo, lion and growing game. Access is by boat or light aircraft, and a houseboat on Kariba is a classic, laid-back way to safari.

Ratings

Wildlife Density: ★★★★☆    Infrastructure: ★★☆☆☆    Photography: ★★★★★
Adventure: ★★★★☆    Exclusivity: ★★★★☆    Value for Money: ★★★☆☆    Scenery: ★★★★★

Location: Northern Zimbabwe; Lake Kariba shore; access via Kariba town by boat or air
Key wildlife: Elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, fish eagle
Best for: Houseboat safaris, photography, scenery, rewilding story
Best time: May–October (dry; game concentrates on the shoreline)

More about Matusadona and Lake Kariba — houseboats, camps and fishing — will be added here over time.