A one-of-a-kind Zimbabwe safari on water and land
Tucked away in northern Zimbabwe and fringing the shores of one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, Matusadona National Park offers a safari unlike any other – one that unfolds across both land and water. Once a hunting reserve, Matusadona was declared a protected area in 1958. Its diverse mix of lake, grassland, and woodland habitats allows for varied wildlife sightings and consistent game viewing throughout the year.
At the heart of this safari experience is Lake Kariba – a destination where traditional game drives are complemented by boating safaris. With over 1,240 miles (2,000 kilometers) of shoreline and expansive open water, the lake adds a unique dimension to the safari experience. Boating safaris offer close-up encounters with elephants cooling off along the edge, crocodiles basking on sun-warmed sandbanks, and pods of hippos shifting in the shallows. For birders, it’s a true paradise. You might spot Pel’s fishing owls perched in the trees, spoonbills feeding in the shallows, African skimmers flying low over the water, and bee-eaters clustered on riverbanks. The variety is remarkable.
Spend your morning tracking wildlife through open plains, and your afternoon drifting quietly along the lake. The region’s rich ecosystem draws large numbers of waterbuck, buffalo, and other grazers, followed closely by predators – making for fantastic sightings throughout the year. Lake Kariba’s iconic sunsets – fiery skies mirrored in golden water – are unforgettable moments in themselves.
More than a safari, this is a destination to see Southern Africa from a new perspective. Peaceful and immersive, Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park offer a deeply restorative retreat – one that surprises, inspires, and stays with you long after you’ve left.
