Kariba Town - Discovering Zimbabwe

Travelling to Kariba Town

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kariba Town, a pretty good destination in Zimbabwe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kariba Town and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kariba Town, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zimbabwe, here's everything to know about Kariba Town for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kariba Town

Kariba Town is a resort town located on the southern shores of Lake Kariba, in Zimbabwe. It is an important center for tourism and fishing, and it is home to a wide variety of lodges, hotels, and restaurants that cater to visitors from all over the world.
Lake Kariba is a man-made lake that was created in the 1950s when the Zambezi River was dammed. The lake is one of the largest in the world, and it is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports.
The town is also known for its wildlife, which includes elephants, buffalos, and lions. Visitors can take guided safaris into the nearby Matusadona National Park, which is home to a variety of game species.
In addition to outdoor activities, Kariba Town has shopping centers, entertainment venues, and museums that offer visitors a taste of Zimbabwean culture. The town also has an airport that allows visitors to easily travel to other parts of the country.

What to visit in Kariba Town

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Kariba Town, Zimbabwe: 1. Kariba Dam - This is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world and an incredible engineering feat. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history and operation.
2. Matusadona National Park - This park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffalo. Visitors can take game drives, boat safaris, and guided walks to experience the wildlife up close.
3. Lake Kariba - This lake is one of the main attractions in Kariba Town, offering plenty of opportunities for water sports, fishing, and boating. Visitors can take a sunset cruise or explore the lake's many islands.
4. Spurwing Island - Located on Lake Kariba, Spurwing Island is a private game reserve and resort that offers a range of activities, including boat safaris, walking safaris, and fishing trips.
5. Bumi Hills Safari Lodge - This luxury lodge is located on a hill overlooking Lake Kariba and offers stunning views and top-notch amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and restaurant.
6. Chawara Falls - These waterfalls are located about 20km from Kariba Town and are a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Visitors can swim in the pools at the base of the falls and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
7. Siavonga Market - Located just across the border in Zambia, Siavonga Market is a bustling bazaar that sells everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. Visitors can experience the local culture and shop for unique gifts to bring back home.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities in Kariba Town. Whether you're interested in wildlife, nature, or culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful Zimbabwean town.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zimbabwe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kariba Town

The best time to visit Kariba Town in Zimbabwe is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, warm days and cool nights. The wildlife congregates around the lake and it's easier to spot them. However, if you are interested in fishing, the best time is between August to November. And if you are interested in bird watching, the best time to visit is from November to March, during the rainy season. Just note that during the rainy season between December and March, some lodges and camps may close due to flooding.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kariba Town

To get to Kariba Town in Zimbabwe, you can follow these steps: 1. Fly to Harare International Airport, which is the closest airport to Kariba Town.
2. From the airport, you can either take a domestic flight to Kariba Airport or hire a car to drive to Kariba.
3. If you choose to take the car route, you will need to drive along the Harare-Chirundu Highway towards Kariba. The drive will take you approximately 4 hours.
4. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Harare's Mbare Bus Terminal to Kariba. The journey takes around 5 hours.
Once you arrive in Kariba Town, you can explore the many attractions the town has to offer, such as the Kariba Dam, Matusadona National Park, and the Crocodile Farm.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kariba Town, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kariba Town

Kariba Town is located in Zimbabwe and is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Kariba Town with a short description for each of them: 1. Mopane Worms: Mopane worms are a popular delicacy in Kariba and are considered a great source of protein. These worms are harvested from the mopane tree and are often dried and fried before being consumed.
2. Kapenta: Kapenta is small and tasty sardine-like fish found in the waters of Lake Kariba. It is often eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in stews and soups.
3. Sadza: Sadza is a staple food in Zimbabwe and Kariba Town is no exception. It is a cooked cornmeal that is served with a variety of stews and relishes.
4. Nyama Choma: Nyama Choma is a grilled meat dish that is commonly served in Kariba Town. It is usually made with beef or goat meat and is a perfect accompaniment to a cold beer.
5. Dovi: Dovi is a popular peanut butter stew that is made with chicken and vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers. It is typically served with sadza.
6. Chibage: Chibage is the local name for pumpkin or butternut squash. It is typically boiled and mashed and served as a side dish with meat or stew.
7. Matumbu: Matumbu is a type of side dish that is made from tripe (cow stomach). It is often served with sadza and a spicy relish.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods that can be found in Kariba Town. Visitors to the town will find a wide variety of tasty and unique culinary delights to try.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zimbabwe here.

Is Kariba Town an expensive destination for tourists?

Kariba Town in Zimbabwe can be considered a mid-range to expensive destination for tourists, depending on your travel style and preferences. The cost of accommodation and dining in Kariba may be higher compared to other destinations in Zimbabwe due to its lakefront location and popularity as a tourist destination. However, there are still options available for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you are willing to stay a bit further from the lakefront. Overall, the cost of your trip to Kariba will depend on your budget, travel style and the activities you choose to do.

Where to find accomodation in Kariba Town

There are several areas where one can look for accommodation when visiting Kariba Town in Zimbabwe. Here are some suggestions: 1. Kariba Heights: This area is known for its stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. There are several lodges, hotels, and guesthouses available for visitors in this area.
2. Kariba Town: This area is more central and offers easy access to the town's amenities. There are several hotels and lodges available in this area.
3. Bumi Hills: This area is located on the eastern side of Lake Kariba and is known for its wildlife and stunning views. There are several luxury lodges and resorts available in this area.
4. Mlibizi: This area is located on the western side of Lake Kariba and offers access to several outdoor activities like fishing, boating and safari tours. There are several lodges and campsites available in this area.
It's important to note that accommodation options in Kariba Town can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it's advisable to book in advance.
You can check hotel prices at Kariba Town here:
Booking.com

Is Kariba Town a safe destination for tourists?

Kariba Town in Zimbabwe is considered a relatively safe place for tourists. However, it is important to take basic safety precautions like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and securing your valuables. It's also recommended to hire local guides or travel with reputable tour operators to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, it is a good idea to research the local customs and laws before traveling to Kariba Town in order to avoid any misunderstandings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zimbabwe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kariba Town.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kariba Town the most?

Kariba Town is a great destination for all types of travelers. However, it is particularly popular among families and couples looking for a relaxing holiday. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, which offers a variety of water sports activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. There are also several wildlife viewing opportunities available near the town, including the Matusadona National Park and Chizarira National Park, where visitors can spot elephants, lions, and other animals in their natural habitat.
For young people looking for some fun, Kariba Town might not offer as many nightclubs or bars as other destinations, but there are still plenty of restaurants and cafes where visitors can socialize and enjoy local cuisine.
Overall, Kariba Town is a great destination for anyone looking for a combination of relaxation, wildlife viewing, and water sports activities.

How to get around Kariba Town

The most common modes of transportation in Kariba Town, Zimbabwe are taxis, buses, and private vehicles. Taxis are usually readily available and can be hailed from the roadside or booked through a taxi company. Local buses are also available for those looking to travel longer distances. Private vehicles can be rented from local car rental companies or brought in from outside Zimbabwe. Boats and ferries can also be used to travel on Lake Kariba, which is a popular tourist attraction in the area.

What to see around Kariba Town

Certainly! Here are some great spots to visit in a day trip from Kariba Town in Zimbabwe: 1. Matusadona National Park - Just a short boat ride from Kariba town, this park is filled with beautiful scenery and wildlife such as elephants, lions and crocodiles.
2. Charara Safari Area - Another great spot for wildlife sightings, this safari area boasts a wealth of animals such as sable antelopes, waterbucks, zebras and over 20 species of fish.
3. Siavonga - On the other side of Lake Kariba lies Siavonga, a quaint town filled with cafes, restaurants and markets to explore.
4. Chamabondo National Park - Located 50km from Kariba in the direction of Harare, Chamabondo National Park is a great spot for hiking, birdwatching and game viewing.
5. Kariba Dam Wall - The huge dam wall that holds back Lake Kariba is an impressive sight to behold and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. I hope that helps!
For every travel information about Zimbabwe you can click here.

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