Lake Kariba is a name familiar to most, yet few
know of Matusadona, a reserve along the lake’s
southern shore. Sunsets over the lake, with the
Matusadona Mountains in the background, are
spectacular, with incredible birdlife year-round.
From November to April, great numbers of
migratory birds also arrive just as resident species
don their breeding plumage. Also at the shore are
large buffalo herds, along with elephant, hippo,
waterbuck, sable and roan antelope, lion, leopard,
hyena, cheetah, as well as a few black rhino. You
can spot many of these animals from the water
on boat or canoe trips as you explore the lake’s
narrow creeks and inlets.
On a private concession on the lake’s edge,
tented Changa Safari Camp (www.changasafari.com) is
designed to merge with its surroundings,
incorporating natural materials, thatch roofs,
and the shelter of trees and surrounding bush. It
has been dutifully decorated with locally made
furniture and authentically rustic-looking detailing
in natural material, so you never forget you’re in
Africa.
Another option is Musango (www.
musangosafaricamp.com), a small safari camp in
a beach-like setting on an offshore island close
to the reserve. Its chief draw is owner, Steve
Edwards, an esteemed guide who formerly
served as Matusadona’s head warden. He
manages the camp and comes with considerable
knowledge – he’ll even show you where he
discovered dinosaur fossils.
47
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