Discover the Magic of Kariba

Tamarind Resort: The Heartbeat of the Lake

Discover the gateway to Lake Kariba at Tamarind Resort, the towns most beloved and iconic Kariba destination. Renowned for its warm hospitality, stunning views, and vibrant atmosphere, Tamarind is more than just a place to stay—it's the centerpiece of the Kariba experience.

Nestled on the lush shoreline, the resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Our charming chalets and comfortable hotel accommodation provide a tranquil retreat, each designed to frame the breathtaking, ever-changing vistas of Lake Kariba. The soul of the resort is our legendary new complex, where modern design captivates guests with modern technology.

Your Stay Highlights
1. Unbeatable Location: Enjoy lush garden views from your chalet or while lounging beside our sparkling swimming pool.
2. Culinary & Social Hub: Dine at our acclaimed restaurants, from casual poolside snacks to our famous à la carte at Utsiga Restaurant.
3. Adventure Base: Easily access a wide range of activities, from sunset cruises and tiger fishing charters to game drives in the surrounding wilderness.
4. Relaxed Ambiance: Feel the pulse of Kariba in our friendly, garden-set resort, offering both serene moments of peace and a warm, convivial social scene.

Whether you're starting your safari journey, seeking a lakeside getaway, or simply passing through, Tamarind Resort offers the authentic charm, comfort, and spirit of Kariba. It’s where lasting memories are made.

Welcome to the view, the flavour, and the soul of the lake. Book your escape to Tamarind Resort.

Waterfront Resort Hotel: Your Lakeside Retreat in Kariba

Welcome to Waterfront Resort Hotel, where the gentle waves of Lake Kariba meet warm, welcoming hospitality. As one of the lake’s most accessible and friendly resorts, we offer a relaxed, family-friendly gateway to this iconic destination, combining comfort, stunning views, and genuine value.

Perfectly positioned on the shoreline, our resort is designed for effortless enjoyment. Wake up to dazzling water views from your private chalet or room, spend sun-drenched days by our expansive swimming pool overlooking the lake, and unwind on your patio as the sky ignites with the famous Kariba sunset.

Your Stay Highlights:
1. True Waterfront Living: Enjoy direct, picturesque views of Lake Kariba from most accommodations and our main pool and deck area, the perfect place to relax and soak in the scenery.
2. Comfort & Convenience: Choose from a range of well-equipped, air-conditioned chalets and hotel rooms, ideal for couples, families, and groups seeking a practical and comfortable base.
3. Leisure at Your Doorstep: Cool off in our large swimming pool, enjoy a meal or sundowner at our on-site restaurant and bar, or arrange fishing, cruises, and safari excursions directly from the resort.
4. Relaxed & Welcoming Atmosphere: Experience the famous Kariba tranquility in a friendly, unpretentious setting where service is attentive and the pace is your own.

Whether you're here for an adventurous holiday, a weekend escape, or a stopover on a longer journey, Waterfront Resort Hotel delivers the authentic beauty of the lake with straightforward comfort and charm.

Your comfortable, scenic, and welcoming lakeside escape awaits. Book your stay at Waterfront Resort Hotel.

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African Queen is a two-decked pontoon type houseboat with a sundeck designed as a family boat . All decks are securely railed and gated.

ACCOMMODATION
3 cabins have twin beds and the 4th has two sets of bunk beds suitable for children and small adults. All rooms face out towards the water.

All rooms have drawer space under the beds and are air conditioned with fans. Please note there are NO mosquito nets, and NO facilities to hang mosquito nets in the rooms.

Two guests can sleep in the lounge on the sofa if necessary.

There are 4 camping mattresses available for sleeping on the top sundeck only, no sleeping allowed on the entertainment deck.

All cabins are located on the lower deck and both have secure safety railings.

Please ensure all your valuables are stored away.

There are two toilets complete with showers, and hand basins with hot water supplied by gas geysers.

FACILITIES

The upper deck boasts a comfortable lounge and dining area that is air-conditioned.

The entertainments area has two bar fridges with self-help bar counters and cabinets. There is a plumbed in ice machine in the kitchen continually making ice.

The pool is located on the entertainments deck towards the back of the boat and has an umbrella for shade.

The sundeck is above, and has 4 sun loungers, an umbrella and some director chairs.

Also situated on the deck is a gas braai, and a wood braai is stored in the storeroom(client’s to provide own wood, charcoal, fire lighters, etc)

There is a Bluetooth speaker available for use. This must not be removed off the boat at any time.

A fully equipped kitchen with crockery, cutlery, gas stove and oven, 2 x deep freezers, a plumbed in ice machine, and an upright fridge. There is a full-time chef on board.

The crew have their own cabin and ablutions.

Tender Boats
There are two tender boats with outboard engines to cater for your fishing, game viewing and sunset cruises. One Tender is a Falcon and other one a pontoon (the CREW are the only persons allowed to drive these tender boats).

Please Note: Tender Boats are for Game Drives and fishing in the vicinity of the houseboat and are strictly crew driven. Should you require a speed boat for long distance fishing, please either bring your own which will be towed behind the houseboat leaving behind one of the houseboat tenders, (please bring your own rope for towing and fuel) or you can hire a speed boat from Marineland.

Malachite is a newly refurbished houseboat that is very comfortable for larger groups. It comprises of 6 double or twin en-suite cabins downstairs, which have air-conditioning and tinted casement windows. There is a separate toilet for those wishing to sleep on the deck, where there is enough sleeping space for up to 4 pax on bunks.

The top deck is spacious and there is a beautiful hand-made wooden bar that makes up part of the entertainment area, as well as a large dining table which can seat up to 12 people, with 8 able to eat at the bar. The bar comes with tap and ice machine and a lovely gas braai also on the top deck. Most people’s favourite feature is the splash pool on the sun deck, which is at the front of the boat on this upper deck. Please bring your own swimming towels.

The crew have their own cabin and ablutions.

Tender Boats
One x pontoon tender with 4 stroke 40hp Suzuki, and a Sabre with a 200hp 2-stroke Yamaha.

Please Note: Tender Boats are for Game Drives and fishing in the vicinity of the houseboat and are strictly crew driven. Should you require a speed boat for long distance fishing, please either bring your own which will be towed behind the houseboat leaving behind one of the houseboat tenders, (please bring your own rope for towing and fuel) or you can hire a speed boat from Marineland.

Additional Info
Fuel is NOT included in the charter price. Main boat, tender boats and generator will be full on arrival and Clients are to check this with the Captain prior to departure. The Company will not be held responsible for any discrepancies. On completion of the Charter, the main boat, tender boats and generator will refuel at Andora Harbour (because they are the only ones that have UNLEADED Petrol for the Suzuki motors) and then disembark at Cutty Sark. Payment for refuelling must be paid by the Client direct to Marineland.

COLD SPACE
Adequate cold space with one large deep freezer, a small deep freezer and a fridge/freezer combo in the kitchen. Also, an ice machine, so you will not run out of drinking ice. PLEASE ONLY USE THE ICE MAKING MACHINE FOR DRINKING ICE, AND NOT FOR TENDER BOAT COOLER BOXES.

TOILETRIES
Are NOT supplied, so clients to bring their own. Bath soap will only be supplied in the case of client forgetting theirs.

Extra Facilities
The charter hire includes toilet rolls, cleaning materials and dustbin bags. There is a basic first aid box on board, but if you require specific medical items, please bring these with you. The boat has unlimited safe drinking water which has been filtered.

OB Joyful is a lovely, air-conditioned boat. It comprises of 2 twin cabins on the lower deck with en-suite bathrooms with toilet, shower and basin. Then another 2 twin cabins on the upper deck with a hand basin in each room, sharing a separate toilet and shower. All the rooms are air-conditioned. There are pedestal oscillating fans in the cabins that run through the night off the solar when the generator is shut down at 22:00hrs and the air-cons are off. For those wanting to sleep out on the top deck, there is enough sleeping space for up to 12 pax on mattresses.

The upper deck has a lovely fitted bar, with lots of room for the 2 tables and chairs that most guests prefer set up for their meals. There is no music system, but guests are welcome to bring their own docking systems. Clients to please adhere to Lake Rules regarding noise pollution and music systems to be turned down at 22:00hrs.

The lower deck has a saloon area with a breakfast area which is air-conditioned. There is a portable charcoal braai (guests must bring their own charcoal). Braais on done on the shore and away from the houseboat. Whilst OB Joyful is solar powered, the air-conditioning units and the geyser still run off the generator and this is shut down at 22:00hrs which means that the a/c does not run through the night.

The crew have their own cabin and ablutions.

Tender Boats
One Dory speed boat and one raft tender with roof are supplied (at no extra cost). *Crew driven ONLY.

Please Note: Tender Boats are for Game Drives and fishing in the vicinity of the houseboat and are strictly crew driven. Should you require a speed boat for long distance fishing, please either bring your own which will be towed behind the houseboat leaving behind one of the houseboat tenders, (please bring your own rope for towing and fuel) or you can hire a speed boat from Marineland. (Contact us for details).
Additional Info
Catering, ice, rod hire, tackle purchase and bait can be organised at an extra cost. All fuel used is for the client’s account and has to be settled on completion of the cruise.

On-board Extras:
All linen and bedding is provided * Mosquito nets are supplied * Cleaning materials are supplied * Charcoal/Wood Braai * Life Jackets * Equipped Wheel House * Landing Nets * Keep Nets * Square and Round Plugs – clients to bring own adaptors * Cooler boxes supplied for fishing/game viewing trips on the tenders.

Clients to Supply:

Swimming Towels
Personal toiletries such as shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush etc.
Ice to keep drinks cold in the cooler boxes – we recommend 3-4 blocks of ice per day in the winter months and 5-6 blocks of ice per day in the summer months.
Wood/charcoal and firelighters for the braai.
Adaptors for charging cell phones, cameras etc.
COLD SPACE & KITCHEN

6-plate Gas Stove/Oven
1 x Fridge/Freezer Combo
3 x Chest Freezers.

Peregrine is a perfectly designed boat for families. It comprises of 6 double or twin cabins downstairs, which all look out on to the water and have fans 24/7 and mosquito nets. There are 2 separate bathrooms with showers and toilets. Upstairs on the top deck, there is enough sleeping space for up to 8 pax on bunks.

This well-designed pontoon is cleverly laid out with the fully equipped galley at the back of the lower deck. At the rear of the same deck is the Splash pool with filter system. Please bring your own swimming towels.

The top deck is spacious, with a dining area and beautifully hand-made wooden bar, with the added bonus of a Boma fireplace and weber braai.

The crew have their own cabin and ablutions.

Tender Boats
One x pontoon tender with 4 stroke 30hp Suzuki, and a Sportster with 115hp Yamaha.

Please Note: Tender Boats are for Game Drives and fishing in the vicinity of the houseboat and are strictly crew driven. Should you require a speed boat for long distance fishing, please either bring your own which will be towed behind the houseboat leaving behind one of the houseboat tenders, (please bring your own rope for towing and fuel) or you can hire a speed boat from Marineland. (Contact us for details).
Additional Info
Fuel is NOT included in the charter price. Main boat, tender boats and generator will be full on arrival and Clients are to check this with the Captain prior to departure. The Company will not be held responsible for any discrepancies. On completion of the Charter, the main boat, tender boats and generator will refuel at Marineland and then disembark at Cutty Sark. Payment for refuelling must be paid by the Client direct to Marineland.

*Major refurbishment was done during lock down period.

COLD SPACE
Adequate cold space with 3 deep freezes and fridge. Also, an ice machine, so you will not run out of drinking ice. PLEASE ONLY USE THE ICE MAKING MACHINE FOR DRINKING ICE, AND NOT FOR TENDER BOAT COOLER BOXES.

TOILETIRES
Are NOT supplied, so clients to bring their own. Bath soap will only be supplied in the case of client forgetting theirs.

Umbozha is a large luxury houseboat which, can accommodate 28 guests, all in en-suite cabins that are fully air conditioned. The 9 cabins are laid out in the following format:

2 Master cabins with queen-size beds
3 Double family cabins with double beds and two adult bunks
2 Twin family cabins with twin beds plus two adult bunks
2 Double cabins with double beds
This vessel is equipped with spacious and fully air-conditioned lounge and dining areas, a 4m x 3m pool with shade and sun deck, 3 large external public deck areas, offering panoramic views of the
landscape beyond, coupled with stylish interiors.
The crew have their own cabins and ablutions.

Tender Boats
2 x tenders are supplied with the capacity to carry 20 pax at any given time.

Please Note: Tender Boats are for fishing and game drives, distance dependent on fuel available. The boats are strictly crew driven. If you would like to bring your own speedboat to be towed behind the houseboat, one of the houseboat tenders will be left behind, as towing 3 boats causes damage (please bring your own rope for towing and fuel.)
Additional Info
Catering, ice, rod hire, tackle purchase and bait can be organised at an extra cost. All fuels used is for the client’s account and has to be settled on completion of the cruise.

COLD SPACE

Ample freezer and cooled boxes.

Extra Facilities
Splash pool on the bottom deck as well as a fitted Bar on the middle deck.

Tehilla is designed to be cool and spacious with the sides opening up. It comprises of 4 identical cabins, which have cupboards, a dressing table and a comfortable occasional chair.

There is one fold-out bed in the living area downstairs, and a corner lounge suite converting into sleeper couch and mattresses upstairs which make up the remaining beds for a full boat of 14. Children and singles often enjoy sleeping on the top deck in the breeze and with a view of the stars – there are six mattresses available in this case. Mosquito nets are provided for every bed. Clients are advised to seek advice as to how best to protect themselves against malaria which is prevalent in Kariba.

The boat has two showers, an inside shower with a gas heater and an external shower for cooling off during the day. There are two toilets. Tehilla runs a solar powered 12V lighting system which requires no “noisy” generators to spoil the tranquil sounds of Africa as the sun goes down. There are small but efficient USB fans in each cabin, inside the mosquito net to keep you cool all night as it is run on solar power.

The upper deck covers the entire area of the boat with an 8-seater table, two fixed daybeds, two movable loungers. The majority of the upper deck is covered, with an open portion and loose mattresses for the sun-tanners at the front!

Meals are served either in the dining area on the lower deck or the upper deck under a covered area.

All crockery, cutlery, linen and bath towels are supplied. Guests are to provide their own toilet paper and cleaning materials. i.e. sunlight liquid, toilet spray, soap etc.

Also situated on the back deck is a wood braai (clients to provide own wood, charcoal, fire lighters, etc).

The crew have their own cabin and ablutions.

Tender Boats
Large steel pontoon (10 pax) with a 60hp Yamaha. Piranha Fisherman fibre glass speedboat with 80hp Yamaha (4pax)

Please Note: Tender Boats are for Game Drives and fishing in the vicinity of the houseboat and are strictly crew driven. Should you require a speed boat for long distance fishing, please either bring your own which will be towed behind the houseboat (please bring your own rope for towing and fuel) or you can hire a speed boat from Marineland. (Contact us on +263 776 246663)

Viking is a very comfortable, fully air-conditioned up-market cruiser boasting two cabins, one with a double bed and the second with two single beds, both of which have en-suite shower facilities. The State room can be used as the 3rd cabin, and can accommodate 3 pax, whilst 8 people can sleep on the covered top deck. There is a well equipped galley and a braai area on the mid ship. The Crew have their own cabin situated in the front bow area.


On the top deck there is an oval table/dining area with built in seats. Half of the top deck (Over the dining area) is covered whilst the rest is open for those that want to relax and soak up the sun.


There are two tender boats that accompany The Viking, one is a Piranha with a 90hp. It seats 5 pax. And the other is a Sportsman with a 15hp engine and seats 3 max pax.

There is ample freezer space, one fridge in the top deck, and portable cooler boxes for your fishing and game-viewing excursions.

🌊 Escape to Serenity on Lake Kariba 🌊

Imagine waking up to breathtaking sunrises, sipping sundowners on the top deck, and drifting off to sleep under star-filled skies. Welcome to Hakuna Matata, a luxurious triple-decked houseboat perfectly suited for groups, families, and corporate retreats seeking an unforgettable getaway.

*Sleeps up to 20 people*
Enjoy spacious dining areas, cozy bedrooms, and stunning views of Lake Kariba. Unwind in our top-deck pool and hot tub, or explore the surrounding wildlife and fishing spots. From tiger fishing to game viewing, adventure awaits at your doorstep.

*Rates*: $1500 per night (whole boat)
Contact Kariba Bookings : 0776246663


Perfect for family reunions, corporate retreats, or special celebrations. Let Hakuna Matata make your Zimbabwe getaway truly unforgettable.

ambezi Trader Houseboat: A Voyage of Timeless Elegance

Step aboard the **Zambezi Trader**, a classic and lovingly maintained houseboat that offers an authentic and intimate exploration of Lake Kariba. Renowned for its character and charm, this vessel provides a uniquely personal and nostalgic way to experience the vast beauty and wildlife of the lake, evoking the golden age of African exploration.

Cruise the serene, island-dotted waters in comfortable style, with the Matusadona mountain range as your constant backdrop. The Zambezi Trader is designed for relaxation and connection—with nature, with fellow travelers, and with the rhythmic pace of life on the water. Its sturdy build and seasoned crew ensure a safe and smooth journey into the heart of the wilderness.

Your Voyage Highlights:
1. Authentic Lake Safari: Drift past dramatic shorelines for exceptional, up-close viewing of elephants, hippos, and prolific birdlife directly from the deck, your ever-moving wildlife hide.
2. Classic Comfort & Charm: Experience the unique ambiance of a traditional houseboat with cozy, functional cabins and spacious communal decks perfect for dining, sunbathing, and stargazing.
3. Tailored Adventure: Days are yours to shape—cast a line for the famed tiger fish, explore hidden coves by tender boat, or simply relax with a book as the African scenery glides by.
4. Complete Serenity: Disconnect and unwind to the soothing sounds of water and wildlife, enjoying hearty meals prepared on board and the unparalleled peace of a night on the lake under a canopy of stars.

The Zambezi Trader offers more than a trip; it offers a return to a simpler, more adventurous time on the water. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a genuine, rustic-luxury houseboat experience filled with tranquility and discovery.

Set sail on a classic Kariba adventure. Book your journey aboard the Zambezi Trader.

Fully Inclusive Group Cruise $10 000.00 per night
Min 20 Passenger Private Exclusive Hire
20 - 68 Passengers Private Exclusive Hire
INCLUDED:
All fuel
All meals, local beverages, selected SA wines, tea/coffee
Water & boat based activities including:
Game viewing, Birding, Sunset Cruises
Fishing from tender boats
All taxes & tourism levies
EXCLUDED:
National Parks Conservation Fees
Fishing Permits and River / Lake Usage Fees
Visa costs and Medical / Travel insurance
Ground, air and speed boat transfers
*Optional Extras: Game drives and walks are available (Please note: some activities may not be applicable depending on your location on the lake during the cruise).
ROUTE
THREE NIGHT MATUSADONA CRUISE: Kariba – Matusadona – Kariba

Mana Houseboat: Your Floating Safari on Lake Kariba

Experience the magic of Lake Kariba from the heart of the wilderness aboard the Mana Houseboat. More than just a boat, it is your private, floating lodge, offering an unparalleled and serene safari adventure on the world's largest man-made reservoir.

Glide through the calm waters of the Matusadona National Park shoreline, where the iconic African landscape meets the lake. The Mana Houseboat is designed for immersion and relaxation. From its spacious decks, you can witness spectacular sunsets, watch elephants swim between islands, and listen to the call of fish eagles—all from the comfort of your moving viewpoint.

Your Journey Highlights:
1. Unique Wildlife Viewing: Cruise silently along the shoreline for close-up sightings of elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of birdlife from a unique aquatic perspective.
2. All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy well-appointed en-suite cabins, delicious meals prepared on board, and welcoming communal areas—all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
3. Adventure at Your Pace: Days are spent on guided game-viewing dinghy excursions, trying your hand at tiger fishing, or simply relaxing on deck as the wilderness unfolds around you.
4. Unforgettable Ambiance: There is nothing quite like the tranquility of a night on the lake, under a blanket of stars, far from the crowds.

The Mana Houseboat is not just a trip; it's a timeless African escape. It’s the perfect blend of safari excitement and peaceful retreat, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Book your voyage and discover Lake Kariba from its very soul.

Details: Mana Houseboat
- Rate: $1400 per night on a dry rate basis / $1800 per night on a wet rate basis
- Max pax 16 with 8 fully air-conditioned cabins. All with a small balcony and view.
- 1 captain, 2 deck hands and a chef
- Generator: 25 kva 3 phase approx. 4 litres diesel per running hour and runs from 6pm - 10pm
- Solar during the day and after 10 pm when generator goes off. System can run fans and lights all night (NOT air-cons).
- Tender boats:
2 x pontoon tender boats 100 hp with shade.
- Water: Bottled water
- Ice maker.
- Hot water system for showers: Gas Geyser.
- Kitchen: 1 x 6-plate gas stove with large oven; 2 x upright fridge/freezer; 2 x large chest freezers 2 in the kitchen and 3 more at the back for your storage and fish.
- Plug Points: 3-Pin Square UK/Zimbabwean style AND 3-pin South African style and lots of USB points throughout the
houseboat.
- Braai: charcoal braai on board
Cabins 8 x twin bedded cabins with a/c and all en-suite shower/basin/toilet
Additional Information:
- Tea, coffee, toilet paper & cleaning materials is supplied on each charter.
-
Cooler boxes for use on tender boats are available.