Overview
Take a trip to Lake Kariba on your Zambia Vacation
Located 1,300 km (807 mi) upstream from the Indian Ocean and along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe is Lake Kariba, the world’s largest human-made reservoir.
The idea for Kariba Dam and thus Lake Kariba came in response to the needs of a hungry nation that decided to control the flow of the Zambezi River. Construction of the dam began in the mid-1950s and Lake Kariba was filled between 1958 and 1963. Before the lake was filled, the land was burned to create incredibly fertile soil that became the lake bed resulting in a great deal of vibrant vegetation and ecology today. Kariba Dam provides electric power to both Zambia and Zimbabwe which helps to support a growing commercial fishing industry.
Today, Lake Kariba is becoming a popular tourist destination for those in search of fishing, boating and water sports opportunities on a Zambia vacation. Tigerfish, considered to be one of the finest game fish in the world, are common in the lake. Many other fish species have been introduced and share the waters with Nile crocodiles and hippopotamus on Zambia safaris. In recent years, Siavonga, a town on the edge of the lake, has been given the nickname the “Riviera of Zambia” as it has grown into a favourite retreat for locals as well as international tourists.
At a Glance
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Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)What do the experts say?
Compared to some other African safari destinations like Kenya or South Africa, Zambia offers a more off-the-beaten-path, less commercialized experience. Its a hidden treasure.
If you looking for the best time to visit then pick June to October for prime wildlife viewing and ideal weather conditions.
Zambia still feels like visiting a hidden gem.. It feels authentic, rugged and unscathed by tourism. South Luwangwa has stunning landscapes, high levels of biodiversity, and expert guides who openly and expertly share their knowledge of the wildlife and ecosystems.
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