Zambia Travel Guide
Zambia Travel Guide
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Lake Kariba and the Lower Zambezi
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Zambia Travel Guide

Lake Kariba and the Lower Zambezi



Zambia's border with Zimbabwe is defined by the course of the Zambezi as it slowly meanders towards the Indian Ocean. Below the Victoria Falls, it flows east, sometimes northeast, and today's biggest features of this river are artificial: Lake Kariba, between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and Lake Cabora Bassa, in Mozambique.

Zambia's attractions on Lake Kariba are limited to a few islands in the lake, accessed from Sinazongwe, and perhaps Siavonga, which is a pleasant enough place to relax. Of the two inhabited islands, Chete is large enough to be a credible wilderness destination with some good wildlife on it, while Chikanka offers access to the lake at a much lower cost, making it accessible for those on a mid-range budget, or even for more affluent backpackers.

Below the wall of Kariba Dam, the Zambezi continues through the hot, low-lying Lower Zambezi Valley and some of the best game viewing in the country. On both sides of the river – Zambian and Zimbabwean – are important national parks. This is also the place to canoe down one of the world's great rivers, whilst game-spotting and avoiding the hippos. It should be on every visitor's list of things to do in Zambia.


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