Top Destinations
Matusadona National Park
Matusadona National Park !Sunset over Lake Kariba with elephants at water’s edge Matusadona National Park sits dramatically on the shores of Lake Kariba,…
Matusadona National Park
Matusadona National Park sits dramatically on the shores of Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe’s inland sea and the world’s largest man-made lake. This unique wilderness destination combines traditional game viewing with water-based safari experiences, creating one of Africa’s most distinctive national parks. Stretching from the Ume River in the west to the spectacular Sanyati River and its magnificent gorge in the east, Matusadona offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience big game viewing both on land and from the water.
Why Visit Matusadona
This remarkable park offers experiences unlike anywhere else in Zimbabwe:- Water-based safaris combining game viewing with boating on Lake Kariba
- Premier rhino sanctuary being restored as Zimbabwe’s top rhino conservation area
- Spectacular lakeside setting with dramatic views across the world’s largest man-made lake
- Diverse activities from traditional game drives to water skiing and fishing
- Island retreats including famous Spurwing and Fothergill islands
- Unique wildlife behavior with animals adapted to lakeside living
- Legendary sunsets where sky and water merge in spectacular displays
- Rich birdlife with over 240 water bird species
Conservation Success Story
Matusadona National Park is experiencing a remarkable conservation renaissance through a pioneering partnership between Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority and African Parks. This 20-year collaboration, marking the park’s 50th anniversary, focuses on:Species Reintroduction:
- Black rhino populations being carefully rebuilt
- Cheetah reintroduction program underway
- Zimbabwe’s first pangolin research and monitoring project
- Local communities engaged in natural heritage protection
- Tourism investment benefiting surrounding areas
- Sustainable development initiatives
- Cutting-edge wildlife monitoring systems
- Endangered species protection protocols
- Ecosystem restoration projects
Wildlife Experience
Lakeside Wildlife
Elephants & Buffalo
Massive herds of up to 1,000 buffalo graze on torpedo grass along the shoreline, while elephants wade into the lake to feed and cool off:
- Daily wildlife spectacles at water’s edge
- Close viewing opportunities from boats
- Unique swimming and feeding behaviors
- Excellent photography opportunities
- Seasonal concentrations during dry months
Rhinos & Big Cats
Matusadona’s restoration includes reintroduction of key species:
- Black rhino carefully monitored and protected
- Lion and leopard populations on open grasslands
- Cheetah reintroduction expanding predator diversity
- Enhanced anti-poaching efforts ensuring species protection
Birdlife Paradise
Lake Kariba’s ecosystem supports exceptional birdlife diversity:Water Birds (240+ species):
- Fish eagles with distinctive calls perched on “sentinel” trees
- Egrets, grey herons, and goliath herons fishing in shallows
- Great white herons and reed cormorants
- Saddleback storks and rare red-winged pratincoles
- Darters and bee-eater colonies in sandstone banks
- Expert birding guides available
- Specialized birding tours and walks
- Photography hides for serious bird photographers
- Seasonal migration information and timing
- Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) for feeding activity
- Late afternoon for roosting congregations
- November-March for migratory species
- Year-round for resident water birds
Activities and Experiences
Water-Based Safaris
Unique wildlife viewing from Lake Kariba:
- Boat game drives: Close approaches to drinking wildlife
- Sunset cruises: Spectacular viewing while animals come to water
- Island hopping: Visits to wildlife-rich islands and inlets
- River exploration: Guided tours up scenic tributary rivers
- Photography boats: Specialized vessels for serious photographers
- Different perspective on wildlife behavior
- Access to areas unreachable by vehicle
- Comfort during hot weather
- Unique photographic opportunities
- Less intrusive wildlife viewing
Traditional Game Drives
Land-based exploration of diverse habitats:
- Kariba floodplain drives: Open grasslands perfect for big game
- Escarpment routes: Rugged terrain with spectacular views
- Walking safaris: Guided walks with armed rangers
- Night drives: Spotlighting for nocturnal species
- Cultural visits: Local community interactions
- Open grasslands for large herbivore herds
- Woodland areas for browsers and predators
- Rocky escarpment for specialized species
- Seasonal wetlands attracting diverse wildlife
Water Sports & Recreation
Recreational activities on Africa’s largest lake:
- Fishing expeditions: Tiger fish and bream in productive waters
- Water skiing: Calm morning waters perfect for water sports
- Swimming: Designated safe areas away from hippos and crocodiles
- Kayaking: Quiet exploration of bays and inlets
- Sailing: Seasonal wind conditions for sailing enthusiasts
- Professional guides for all water activities
- Safety equipment provided and mandatory
- Hippo and crocodile awareness briefings
- Weather monitoring for safe conditions
Specialized Experiences
Unique opportunities in Matusadona:
- Sanyati Gorge tours: Breathtaking climbs up steep-sided gorge
- Pangolin research visits: World’s first pangolin monitoring project
- Conservation education: Behind-the-scenes conservation work
- Houseboat holidays: Multi-day floating accommodation
- Fishing competitions: Organized angling events
- Wildlife research participation
- Conservation volunteer opportunities
- Specialized photography workshops
- Scientific expedition support
Where to Stay
Lakeside Accommodation
Luxury Lakeside
Premium accommodation with spectacular lake views:
- Bumi Hills Safari Lodge: Clifftop luxury with spa and infinity pool
- Spurwing Island Lodge: Exclusive island retreat with electric fence protection
- Changa Safari Camp: Elegant tented experience on lake shore
- Direct lake access for water activities
- Guided tours and professional safari services
- Gourmet dining with lake views
- Spa services and wellness facilities
Mid-Range Options
Comfortable lakeside properties:
- Tiger Bay Resort: Charming thatched complex among indigenous trees
- Fothergill Island: No-frills island safari for fishing groups
- Tashinga Camp: Zimbabwe Parks accommodation with basic facilities
- Good value with essential amenities
- Access to water and land activities
- Local cuisine and hospitality
- Fishing and boat rental facilities
Houseboat Experience
Floating accommodation on Lake Kariba:
- Luxury houseboats: Fully-crewed vessels with multiple cabins
- Mid-range houseboats: Comfortable but simpler accommodations
- Fishing houseboats: Specialized for angling enthusiasts
- Move to different locations daily
- Wildlife viewing from your accommodation
- Sunset and sunrise from the water
- Swimming and fishing directly from boat
National Parks Accommodation
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority operates several facilities:Tashinga Camp:
- Basic chalets and camping sites
- Spectacular lake views from elevated position
- Self-catering facilities available
- Communal ablution blocks
- Boat launching facilities
- Price: $30-80 per person per night
- Remote camping location
- Spectacular gorge views
- Basic facilities only
- Ideal for adventurous travelers
- Boat access recommended
- Price: $15-30 per person per night
- Reserve through Zimbabwe Parks head office
- Advance booking essential, especially dry season
- Bring all supplies as no shops in park
- Fuel available at some camps but unreliable
Lake Kariba Features
Understanding the unique environment of the world’s largest man-made lake:The Sentinels:
- Ghostly trees still standing 60+ years after lake formation
- Iconic symbols of Lake Kariba
- Perfect perches for fish eagles and cormorants
- Dramatic silhouettes for sunset photography
- Navigate landmarks for boaters
- Tiger fish: Aggressive game fish providing sport fishing
- Bream: Excellent eating fish abundant in lake
- Kapenta: Small sardine-like fish supporting commercial fishing
- Vundu: Large catfish in deeper waters
- Professional fishing guides available
- 350+ animal and bird species supported
- Torpedo grass creating unique lakeside ecosystem
- Seasonal water level changes affecting wildlife patterns
- Intricate food chain from plankton to large predators
- Ongoing ecological research and monitoring
- Mystical creature of Shona folklore
- Mermaid head with serpent body
- Traditional keeper of Zambezi River and Lake Kariba
- Cultural significance to local Tonga people
- Symbolic connection between traditional beliefs and modern conservation
When to Visit
Matusadona offers year-round experiences with distinct seasonal advantages:Dry Season (May-October)
- Weather: Pleasant days (20-28°C), cool nights, minimal rainfall
- Wildlife: Concentrated around permanent water sources
- Lake conditions: Lower water levels, calmer conditions
- Activities: Optimal for all activities including water sports
- Considerations: Peak season with higher rates and more visitors
- Recommended for: First-time visitors, wildlife enthusiasts, water sports
- Weather: Hot, humid with afternoon thunderstorms
- Wildlife: More dispersed but excellent for baby animals
- Lake conditions: Higher water levels, occasional rough conditions
- Activities: Excellent birding, lush scenery, dramatic storm photography
- Considerations: Lower rates, fewer visitors, some activity limitations
- Recommended for: Bird watchers, photographers, budget travelers
- Tiger Fish Season: September-December (peak: October-November)
- Bream Fishing: Year-round (best: December-March)
- Kapenta Season: April-August for commercial fishing
Island Getaways
Spurwing Island
Luxury accommodation on private island:
- Location: Just offshore, accessible by boat or charter flight
- Accommodation: Luxury chalets with scenic lake views
- Facilities: Shady garden oasis with discrete electric fencing
- Activities: Guided Sanyati Gorge tours, walking safaris, boat excursions
- Atmosphere: Exclusive island paradise feeling
- Best for: Romantic getaways, luxury safari experience
- Sanyati Gorge breathtaking guided climbs
- Professional wildlife photography opportunities
- Swimming in designated safe areas
- Sunset viewing from private island perspectives
Fothergill Island
Fisherman’s favorite retreat:
- Location: Easy boat access from mainland
- Accommodation: No-frills but comfortable fishing lodge
- Facilities: Specialized for fishing groups and enthusiasts
- Activities: Tiger fishing, boat excursions, relaxation
- Atmosphere: Laid-back fishing camp environment
- Best for: Serious anglers, fishing groups, value-conscious travelers
- Professional fishing guides and equipment
- Prime tiger fish locations
- Boat facilities and launching
- Fish cleaning and preparation services
Practical Information
How Much Time to Spend
How Much Time to Spend
- Minimum: 2-3 days for basic experience
- Recommended: 4-5 days to enjoy both water and land activities
- Extended: 7+ days for comprehensive exploration including islands
- Days 1-2: Lakeside accommodation with water and land game viewing
- Days 3-4: Island experience or houseboat safari
- Days 5-7: Specialized activities (fishing, Sanyati Gorge, conservation visits)
Getting There
Getting There
By Air (Recommended):
- Charter flights to Tashinga airstrip (6 minutes from Kariba town)
- Scheduled flights from Harare to Kariba Airport (45 minutes)
- Direct charter flights from Victoria Falls or other destinations
- From Kariba town: 30km (45-minute drive)
- From Harare: 365km (4-5 hour drive via Kariba)
- From Bulawayo: 675km (8 hour drive)
- Ferry services from various Lake Kariba points
- Private boat transfers arranged by accommodations
- Houseboat pickup directly from park waters
Packing Essentials
Packing Essentials
Clothing:
- Light, breathable clothing for hot days
- Warmer layers for cool evenings (especially May-August)
- Swimwear and quick-dry clothing
- Sun hat with securing strap (windy lake conditions)
- Non-slip shoes for boat activities
- High SPF sunscreen (water reflection intensifies UV)
- Quality sunglasses with strap
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing and birdwatching
- Camera with zoom lens for wildlife photography
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes active at dawn/dusk)
- Personal flotation device if bringing own water sports equipment
- Fishing equipment (quality gear available for rent)
- Underwater camera for swimming areas
- Portable phone charger (power can be intermittent)
Health & Safety
Health & Safety
Health Considerations:
- Malaria prevention essential (consult travel doctor)
- Bilharzia risk in some lake areas - confirm safe swimming zones
- Heat-related precautions during hot season
- Medical facilities limited (basic clinic in Kariba town)
- Medical evacuation insurance strongly recommended
- Hippos and crocodiles present significant danger
- Never swim except in designated safe areas
- Always use life jackets on boats
- Follow guide instructions regarding water activities
- Weather can change rapidly on large lake
- Animals move freely through accommodation areas
- Follow accommodation safety briefings
- Never approach wildlife on foot without armed guide
- Elephant and buffalo especially dangerous near water
Best Experiences by Season
Dry Season Highlights (May-October):
- Peak wildlife viewing with animals concentrated at water
- Calm lake conditions perfect for water sports
- Clear skies for spectacular sunset photography
- Comfortable temperatures for all activities
- Best fishing conditions for tiger fish
- Lush landscapes with dramatic storm photography
- Baby animals throughout the park
- Exceptional birdwatching with migrants present
- Fuller waterfalls and flowing streams
- Lower visitor numbers for exclusive experiences
- Spectacular sunsets over Lake Kariba
- Fish eagle sightings on sentinel trees
- Cultural interactions with local communities
- Conservation project visits and education
- Houseboat safaris (weather permitting)
Conservation and Community
Matusadona’s conservation success depends on community involvement:African Parks Partnership:
- 20-year management agreement with Zimbabwe Parks
- International expertise with local knowledge
- Sustainable financing for long-term conservation
- Scientific research and monitoring programs
- Employment opportunities in tourism and conservation
- Revenue sharing from park activities
- Education and healthcare support
- Sustainable resource use programs
- Cultural preservation initiatives
- Park fees directly support conservation
- Lodge partnerships fund community projects
- Responsible tourism practices
- Support for local crafts and products
- Volunteer opportunities for longer-term visitors
- Pangolin monitoring (first in Zimbabwe)
- Rhino population recovery tracking
- Ecosystem restoration studies
- Climate change adaptation planning
- Community-based conservation evaluation
Photography Opportunities
Iconic Shots
Must-capture images at Matusadona:
- Kariba sunsets: Sky and water merging in spectacular colors
- Sentinel trees: Fish eagles perched on drowned tree branches
- Elephant herds: Drinking and bathing at lake’s edge
- Sanyati Gorge: Dramatic cliff faces and flowing water
- Wildlife silhouettes: Animals against sunset backdrop
- Golden hour lighting 6:00-7:00 AM and 5:30-6:30 PM
- Polarizing filter essential for water glare reduction
- Telephoto lens recommended for wildlife (200-400mm)
- Waterproof camera bag for boat activities
Specialized Photography
Advanced photography opportunities:
- Underwater photography: In designated safe swimming areas
- Bird photography: Using hides and specialized blinds
- Conservation documentation: Research and monitoring activities
- Cultural photography: Local community interactions
- Aerial photography: From charter flights (with permits)
- Photography guides with technical expertise
- Specialized photography boats with stabilizers
- Hide rentals for serious bird photographers
- Post-processing workshops at some lodges
Matusadona Insider Tip: For the ultimate experience, time your visit to coincide with the full moon. The moonlit lake creates magical night photography opportunities, and many animals are more active during bright moonlit nights. Several lodges offer special full-moon packages with night boat cruises and romantic dinners on floating platforms.