Matusadona National Park
Exploring the Wild Side of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe
Overview
Matusadona National Park is a hidden gem located in the north-western region of Zimbabwe, covering an area of approximately 1,400 square kilometers. Established in 1958, the park was named after the Matusadona Mountains that dominate its landscape. The park is situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, providing visitors with a unique and authentic African wilderness experience that is not to be missed. Geographically, Matusadona National Park is characterized by rugged terrain, deep gorges, and steep cliffs that provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is one of the least explored parks in Zimbabwe, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The climate in Matusadona National Park is tropical and generally hot, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. The dry season runs from May to October, while the wet season runs from November to April. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, hyenas, and various antelope species. Visitors can also spot over 240 bird species, making it a bird lover’s paradise. The plant species in the park include mopane woodlands, baobabs, and various species of acacia trees. Matusadona National Park has a rich history, dating back to the early 1900s when the area was inhabited by the Tonga people. Today, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including safari game drives, walking safaris, fishing, bird watching, cultural visits, and sunset cruises. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Matusadona National Park offers a breathtaking experience that you’ll never forget.
Things to Do
Safari Game Drives: One of the best ways to experience the park’s wildlife is by taking a safari game drive. Visitors can take a guided tour in an open 4×4 vehicle, and an experienced guide will help you identify different species and share information about their behavior and habits. You can spot a wide range of animals, including elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and various antelope species.
Walking Safaris: For a more intimate and immersive experience, visitors can take a walking safari. Accompanied by an experienced ranger, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the park’s wildlife and learn about the local culture and traditions. Walking through the park’s wilderness is a great way to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty.
Fishing: Matusadona National Park is situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, which is home to a wide range of fish species, including tiger fish, bream, and catfish. Visitors can try their hand at fishing and enjoy a relaxing and peaceful day on the lake.
Bird Watching: Matusadona National Park is home to over 240 bird species, making it a bird lover’s paradise. Visitors can spot a wide range of birds, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons. The park’s birdlife is particularly impressive during the wet season, with a wide range of species making their way to the park.
Sunset Cruises: One of the most popular activities in Matusadona National Park is a sunset cruise on Lake Kariba. Visitors can sit back, relax, and enjoy stunning views of the sunset while spotting wildlife along the shoreline. It’s a peaceful and relaxing way to end the day and a great opportunity to take some stunning photographs.
Cultural Visits: Visitors can also take a cultural tour and learn about the local culture and traditions of the Tonga people who live around the park. You can visit local villages, meet the villagers, and learn about their way of life.
What to See
Lake Kariba: Matusadona National Park is situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. The lake offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind while enjoying stunning views of the water and surrounding hills. Visitors can take a sunset cruise or try their hand at fishing.
Matusadona Mountains: The Matusadona Mountains dominate the park’s landscape and offer visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can take a hike to the top of the mountains and enjoy panoramic views of the park and Lake Kariba.
Wildlife: Matusadona National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. Visitors can also spot over 240 bird species, making it a bird lover’s paradise. The park’s wildlife can be seen on a safari game drive or walking safari.
Cultural Sites: Visitors can also visit local Tonga villages and learn about the culture and traditions of the Tonga people. The Tonga people have a rich history in the area, and visitors can see traditional Tonga homes and learn about their way of life.
Lake Kariba Dam Wall: Visitors can take a tour of the Kariba Dam Wall, one of the largest dams in the world. The dam provides hydroelectric power to Zimbabwe and Zambia and is an impressive feat of engineering.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the park depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip.
Dry Season (May to October): The dry season, which runs from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Matusadona National Park. During this time, the weather is dry, and the wildlife is more concentrated around the park’s water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The vegetation is also less dense, providing better visibility and making it easier to navigate through the park. The temperatures during this time are cooler, making it more comfortable for visitors to explore the park.
Wet Season (November to April): The wet season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by heavy rainfall, lush vegetation, and a proliferation of bird species. The scenery is green and vibrant, and the park is teeming with life. The park’s birdlife is particularly impressive during this time, with a wide range of species making their way to the park.
The wet season can be challenging to navigate, with muddy roads and difficult terrain, but it can be a rewarding experience for those who don’t mind a bit of adventure.
Getting there
By Air: The quickest and most convenient way to get to Matusadona National Park is
By air. The nearest airport is Kariba International Airport, which is located approximately 7 kilometers from the park. The airport is serviced by several airlines, including Air Zimbabwe, and offers daily flights from Harare. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to get to the park. The flight from Harare to Kariba takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and offers stunning aerial views of Lake Kariba and the surrounding landscape.
By Road: Visitors can also choose to get to Matusadona National Park by road. The park is located approximately 360 kilometers from Harare, and the journey takes approximately 5 hours. The roads leading to the park are generally in good condition, although some sections may be gravel. Visitors can hire a car and drive themselves, or they can take a shuttle or taxi. The drive to the park offers stunning views of the Zimbabwean countryside, and visitors can stop along the way to take in the scenery and explore local villages.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Matusadona National Park LodgeÂ
This lodge offers comfortable mid-range accommodation with views of Lake Kariba. The lodge features spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, boat cruises, and fishing excursions.
Spurwing IslandÂ
Spurwing Island offers mid-range accommodation on an island in Lake Kariba. The lodge features chalets with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and a bar overlooking the lake. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, bird watching, and fishing excursions.
Â
Luxury Accommodation:
Bumi Hills Safari LodgeÂ
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge offers luxurious accommodation with panoramic views of Lake Kariba. The lodge features elegant rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, boat cruises, and fishing excursions. The lodge’s location offers a serene and exclusive safari experience.
Changa Safari CampÂ
Changa Safari Camp offers exclusive luxury tented accommodation near the park. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, boat cruises, and fishing excursions. The camp’s location provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the park.
Other Attractions in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
Hwange National Park
Nyanga National Park
Manapools National Park
Gonarezhou National Park
Chizarira National Park
Zambezi National Park
General Knowledge Base
General information about Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe.
Matusadona National Park is located in the north-western part of Zimbabwe, along the southern shore of Lake Kariba.
Matusadona National Park covers an area of approximately 1,400 square kilometers.
Matusadona National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, and many species of antelopes.
Matusadona National Park has a hot and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in Matusadona National Park, including game drives, walking safaris, fishing, and boat cruises on Lake Kariba.
The famous attraction in Matusadona National Park is Lake Kariba, which is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world and provides a habitat for a variety of aquatic wildlife.
Matusadona National Park is a relatively unknown tourist destination, but it is gaining popularity due to its abundance of wildlife and scenic beauty.
Matusadona National Park is significant for its role in protecting important wildlife habitats and conserving a large area of wilderness in Zimbabwe.
