Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park is a protected area on the southern shore of Lake Kariba in northern Mashonaland West. The park covers 1,400 km² of Zambezi Valley escarpment, shoreline, and grassland. It is known for its spectacular lake-edge game viewing, large buffalo and elephant herds, and the successful reintroduction of black rhino. The park's remote setting, accessible only by boat or rough road, gives it a true wilderness feel.

By Plane

Charter flights land at the park airstrip. The nearest commercial airport is Kariba (KAB, 30 km east by boat).

By Car / Road

Access is via rough 4WD tracks from Kariba or the Binga road. Most visitors arrive by boat from Kariba.

Boat safaris and game drives in 4WD vehicles. The park's shoreline roads offer excellent game viewing.

• Lake Kariba shoreline: Spectacular setting with the lake and escarpment.

• Large mammal herds: Buffalo, elephant, and zebra on the lakeshore.

• Black rhino: The park has a successful black rhino population.

• Game drives: Along the lakeshore and in the woodland areas.

• Boat safaris: Lake-based game viewing and birdwatching.

• Walking safaris: Guided walks with experienced rangers.

• Fishing: Tiger fishing in Lake Kariba.

Self-cater at lodges.

Bring all drinking water.

• Budget: Zimparks campsites (US$20–30) at Tashinga.
• Mid-range: Tashinga self-catering lodges (US$40–80).
• Luxury: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge (US$400+), Spurwing Island Lodge (US$350+).

Bring all supplies.

• Kariba (30 km east by boat, 1 hour) — lakeside resort town.
• Mana Pools National Park (200 km east, 4 hours by road) — Unesco World Heritage site.
• Binga (100 km west, 3 hours by boat/road) — Tonga cultural centre.