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Home | Binga Houseboats | Zambezi Cruise SafarisZambezi Cruise SafarisIdeal opportunity for singles, couples and small groups to experience the beautiful Lake Kariba easily and cost effectively!
Introduction
Lake Kariba although not as easy to access as
Victoria Falls or
Chobe National Park, is one
of Zimbabwe's prime destinations and well worth the effort in getting there.
The world's largest man-made lake, at one time, is home to phenomenal wildlife and
the scenery on and around the lake is breath-taking. Its wildlife and safari
opportunities cannot be overstated and now you can embark on a luxury cruise
safari on one of
Zambezi Cruise Safari's vessels. Either traverse the lake completely from
Kariba to Binga or enjoy two and three night circular cruises
(see itineraries below).
The fundamental difference between these cruises and other
Kariba houseboat
safaris are the set departure dates that individuals, couples or small groups
can join without having to hire the entire houseboat, much like an ocean going
cruise liner. Although private hire for larger groups can also be arranged.
The Zambezi Cruise Safaris' three floating hotels are of different sizes to
cater for varying groups and cruises (see below). They are fully air-conditioned
with mostly en-suite bathrooms, covered lounge, dining area, bar and
fully equipped kitchen. The facilities and rooms are beautifully designed to
make you feel at home and although they're not "Luxury Cruise Ships" in a first
world sense (possible 3-4 star) they are without doubt the best Lake Kariba has
to offer.
Lake Kariba is all about relaxing in the sun whilst cruising the lake and
taking in the remarkable scenery, sundecks and jacuzzi pools make these boats
ideal. Morning and afternoon activities included in the Zambezi Cruise
Safaris are fishing, game viewing and bird watching on the accompanying tender
boats. For those wanting a
walking safari, this can also be arranged on demand.
Zambezi Cruise Safaris Vessels
The Umbozha
The flagship of the Zambezi Cruise Safaris fleet, The Umbozha Houseboat is one of larger
vessels on Lake Kariba, with cabin-space for 28 people in five family cabins, two twin bedded cabins and two master suites with queen-size beds – all air conditioned, en-suite and have views of the lake. To accommodate additional guests, the main lounge has two full sized Indian day beds, a full sized Indian daybed on the pool deck, two double outdoor day beds on the back deck. For those wanting to sleep in the lounge area there is a separate bathroom and shower. For those sleeping outside on the deck, there is a separate toilet and shower on the first deck. All in all, the total sleeping capacity outside of the cabins is eight
guests.
Boat Specifications
• Cabins can take up to 28 guests on
the Umbozha Houseboat
• 102ft (31.09m) Multi Decked Pontoon houseboat
• 2 x Pontoon tender boats
The Lower Deck
• 9 Air-conditioned cabin rooms with vanity basins, shower and toilet en-suite
• Covered jacuzzi on open deck
The Middle Deck
• Open sun deck, covered lounge, dining area and bar
• Toilet
The Upper Deck
• Open deck area
• Captain's wheelhouse
Facilities
• Crew: 4 - comprising Captain, chef and two deckhands. A host can be
provided for an additional fee.
• 9 air conditioned en-suite cabins.
• 240V generator powers the lighting and wall sockets, as does a 12v battery system when the generators are not running. All plug points are UK Square pin (please bring suitable adaptors). Generally the main generators are switched off between 10 & 11pm as per lake regulations whereby the 12v battery system takes over until morning.
• Fully equipped and air conditioned bar, lounge area and dining area
• Shaded pool on the upper deck
• Television (for DVD's only) and modern sound system - music and DVD's
not
provided
• Basic fishing equipment is provided, but it is essential that any serious
fishermen/women bring their own rods and tackle and make special arrangements for bait etc.
• Fully fitted and equipped kitchen
• Two pontoon tender boats
The Karabezi
The smallest of the Zambezi Cruise Safaris fleet, The Karabezi has
a capacity of 14 people - offering a more intimate Lake Kariba safari than the
other two houseboats (Umbozha and Shikra). This is perfect for a large group
wanting an exclusive itinerary, or for those who just want a less crowded
accommodation option in Kariba. The houseboat is beautifully fitted with teak and furnished tastefully in a rustic style.
The Karabezi has seven air-conditioned cabins, six of which are en-suite while
one has a separate bathroom - all bathrooms have a shower, toilet and hand
basin. For additional capacity, the houseboat has six fold-out single beds and a
separate toilet and shower facility in the reception area of the vessel.
Accommodation on The Karabezi Houseboat
• 7 air-conditioned twin cabins - 3 twin cabins (2 en-suite); 2 double
cabins (en-suite); 2 double bunk cabins inter-leading with the double cabins to
create family cabins (lower deck)
• En-suite bathrooms with shower, toilet and wash-basin (lower deck)
• Additional single beds for up to 6 people (middle deck)
• Separate toilet and shower (middle deck)
Boat Specifications
• Cabins can take up to 14 guests on the Karabezi Houseboat
• 70ft (21.34m) Multi Decked Pontoon houseboat
• 2 x Pontoon tender boats
The Lower Deck
• 7 Air-conditioned cabins
• Small open deck
The Middle Deck
• Covered sun deck, jacuzzi
• Lounge, dining area and bar
• Toilet and shower
• Captain's wheelhouse
The Upper Deck
• Open deck area with sun beds
Facilities
• Crew: 4 - comprising Captain, chef and two deckhands. A host can be provided
for an additional fee.
• 6 air conditioned en-suite cabins, and one cabin with a separate
bathroom
• 240V generator powers the lighting and wall sockets, as does a 12v battery
system when the generators are not running. All plug points are UK Square pin
(please bring suitable adaptors). Generally the main generators are switched off
between 10 & 11pm as per lake regulations whereby the 12v battery system takes
over until morning.
• Fully equipped and air conditioned bar, which seats 8 and has under counter chillers that can hold 22 crates of canned drinks
• Lounge area and dining area
• Shaded pool on the middle deck
• Television (for DVD's only) and modern sound system - music and DVD's not
provided
• Basic fishing equipment is provided, but it is essential that any serious
fishermen/women bring their own rods and tackle and make special arrangements
for bait etc.
• Fully fitted and equipped kitchen - teak and black granite kitchen with a 6 hob gas stove/oven, fridge/freezer, 3 large deep freezers and microwave and toaster
• Braai on board
• Two pontoon tender boats
The Shikra
The Shikra is one of the larger houseboats on Lake Kariba, with a
maximum capacity of 30 people, with
a dedicated staff of 5 crew members. It has 10 rooms, all en-suite and with two single beds which can be
converted into queen-size double beds, and a fold-away bunk bed. All bathrooms are equipped with shower, toilet and a hand basin.
The biggest of the Zambezi Cruise Safaris boats, The Shikra offers plenty of open
space for relaxing and entertainment and a rather large shaded plunge pool on
the second deck. The lounge & dining area also on the middle deck are tastefully
furnished with a beautiful teak & granite bar.
Accommodation on The Shikra Houseboat
• 10 air-conditioned twin cabins - convertible to double cabins (lower
deck)
• 1 fold-away bunk beds in each cabin (lower deck)
• En-suite bathrooms with shower, toilet and wash-basin (lower deck)
Boat Specifications
• Cabins can take up to 30 guests on
the Shikra Houseboat
• 105ft. (32m) Double Decked Pontoon houseboat
• 2 x Pontoon tenders with covered roof and fold away comfortable seating
The Lower Deck
• 10 Air-conditioned cabin rooms with vanity basins, shower and toilet en-suite
• Covered deck area
The Upper Deck
• Open deck area
• Fully shaded 4.5m x 2.4m pool
• Fully air-conditioned lounge and dining area with 360 degree views of the lake
• Fitted kitchen
• Bar
Facilities
• Crew: 5 - comprising Captain, chef and deckhands. A host can be provided at an additional fee.
• 10 en-suite cabins.
• 240V generator powers the lighting and wall sockets, as does a 12v battery system when the generators are not running. All plug points are UK Square pin (please bring suitable adaptors). Generally the main generators are switched off between 10 & 11pm as per lake regulations whereby the 12v battery system takes over until morning.
• Fully equipped and air conditioned bar, lounge area and dining area
• Large shaded pool on the upper deck
• Television (for DVD's only) and modern sound system - music and DVD's not
provided
• Basic fishing equipment is provided, but it is essential that any serious
fishermen/women bring their own rods and tackle and make special arrangements for bait etc.
• Braai facility
• Two pontoon tender boats
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Our Opinion
Kariba is one of Zimbabwe's totally undersold destinations, anyone who has been there would vouch for its beauty and
tranquillity. These cruises now offer the ideal opportunity for singles, couples and small groups to
experience this fabulous destination easily and cost effectively. In
addition if you are trying to get from Kariba to Binga or visa versa
then what better way to do it. We found the boats themselves to be
of a high standard
and after experiencing the quality of this trip, we are very excited
to be able to promote and offer the product
to our clients. What a stunning add-on to Victoria Falls or a safari
in Hwange!
Zambezi Cruise Safaris Itineraries
On a typical day enjoy an early morning game viewing cruise or
you can try some famous Kariba fishing for Bream, Cornish Jack or the renowned Tiger Fish on one of the tender boats. Walking
safaris or a game drive deep into the
Matusadona National Park are optional
extras which are conducted with the sister lodged on the mainland. After the
morning activity, breakfast or brunch is served before you kick back and relax with a cool drink, a dip in the pool
(or jacuzzi, depending on the boat you're on), or simply take a nap as the boat cruises
on to
the next overnight mooring. Spend the late afternoon exploring the nearby creeks and inlets with their resident hippo, crocodile & wildlife populations and enjoy the outstanding birdlife and fishing opportunities this lake presents.
In true African safari style, a sundowner drink and snacks are in order as you
are inspired by one of the best sunsets you will ever witness.
Zambezi Cruise Safaris' set itineraries are detailed below and can
also be combined with one of
the mainland lodges for longer stays. Tailor made itineraries are also
possible please
contact us for details.
3 Nights - Matusadona Cruise - Departs & returns to
Kariba Town /Harbour, Boarding times between 12:00 & 13:00. Disembarking Day –
Cruise arrives in harbour between 11:00 & 12:00
Cruise across the Lake to the Matusadona National Park to the first night mooring in a secluded bay or river inlet. Scrumptious local fresh cuisine often utilizing fish caught during the trip. Daily activities are of YOUR choice from
the tender boats, the options being fishing, game viewing, birding or simply taking in the magnificent views as we explore the rivers and bays of this part of the lake. There are optional extras of walking and game drives deep into the national park from one of
the partner lodges.
Children
• Children 7 years and older are welcome
• Children 12 years and older are charged the full adult rate
Zambezi Cruise Safaris Prices 2024
Fully Inclusive Lake Kariba boat cruises to various destinations per
person sharing per trip. (Single supplement add 50% on sharing rate)
Destination
Matusadona Wildlife & Fishing (3 nights) - US$ 1425
Based on a minimum of 8 passengers
Included in the Boat Hire:
• Taxes and Tourism Levies
• All Meals, Beverage - All Local beers, spirits, soft drinks, still purified
water, tea and coffee and selected SA wines
• All boat based activities – From Tender boats which include Fishing, Game
Viewing, Birding and Sunset Cruises
Excluded:
• Land based activities
• All fishing equipment and bait. Please note we reserve the right to charge for
damaged or lost tackle
• All National Parks and entry permits (where applicable)
• All road and Air Transfers
• Visa Costs
• Travel Insurance
• Gratuities
Zimbabwe National Parks Fees
These are not included in the Charter fee and are payable to the Parks representatives at the boat prior to embarkation. Parks officials may board the boat at any stage to check that payments are accurate and have been properly receipted. You may wish to let us know in advance exactly who is coming, relevant ages, residential status and how many people will be fishing, which we will pass on via the boat captain to save time before you embark.
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Residents |
International Visitors |
| Houseboat including tenders per person/day |
US $3 |
US $10 |
| Children under 5 years |
Free |
Free |
| Children 5 to 10 years |
50% Adult rate |
| Resident pensioners over 60 years |
50% Adult rate |
N/A |
| Fishing fees per person/day |
US $5 |
US $10 |
Read more about Kariba and a Houseboat
holiday
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Customer Feedback
Brilliant service and so helpful
by Sally (Blisworth, U.K.)
I stumbled across Victoria Fall Guide by accident, but I am so glad I did. Tony and Boo were so helpful, advising us on the best activities for us as I have mobility issues, and arranging our itinerary and booking everything.
I had no worries about using them, or sending a very large payment to someone I didn’t know. Everything they booked for us was so well organised, pick ups on time, knowledgeable and friendly guides, clean transport. We did the walking tour of the falls, the sunset dinner cruise, full day at Chobe, the team, lion encounter and the helicopter and every single one was faultless.
We were also due to do the lunar rainbow but unfortunately it was cancelled, however boo arranged the refund immediately. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone. We are so grateful to them for making our special holiday even more so.
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