Where the Wildlife Went

Lake Kariba is a strikingly beautiful area with lush vegetation, colourful birdlife, toothy tiger fish and abundant wildlife. However this area went through dramatic changes in the late 1950s. The extent of the vast lake is owed to the construction of the Kariba Dam, created as a hydroelectric power station. When the waters of the Zambezi started rising the rich animal kingdom of the Zambezi Valley was in danger. Intimidating and fierce creatures such as lions and elephants had to be rescued from the effects of man’s interference with this beautiful habitat.

Operation Noah

In 1958 Rupert Fothergill led Operation Noah to capture animals endangered by the rising waters of Lake Kariba. The Zambezi Valley was home to many large mammals such as rhino, lion, leopard, elephant and various antelopes, none of them have a reputation of being seaworthy. In an effort that took 5 years Rupert Fothergill and his team rescued more than 6,000 animals. Most of them were released in the area of the Matusadona National Park, thereby creating an area with an incredible wildlife density.

Matusadona National Park

Matusadona has some of the richest wildlife set in stunning scenery on the shores of Lake Kariba with the Matuzviadonha Hills in the background. The fauna and flora flourishes in this area, mostly undisturbed by tourists as the park is highly inaccessible. The park boasts the second largest concentration of lions (the Ngorongoro Crater has the most) and is a sanctuary for the highly endangered black rhinoceros. Elephants and buffalo are abundant, gathering on the shores of Lake Kariba in the thousands.

Since accessing the park is a challenge even to 4×4 vehicles, water-based game viewing is a great alternative in the area. The large mammals are drawn to the water and lush vegetation on the shores of Lake Kariba. Kangamani Tours offer houseboat trips that will take you past the shores of Matusadona National Park. With great views and a cool breeze this is one of the best ways to view African wildlife.