The world’s largest man-made lake by water volume
Stretching along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake. Created between 1959 and 1963 following the construction of the Kariba dam on the Zambezi river, the lake transformed an entire region and gave rise to one of the largest reservoirs on Earth.
Extending for more than 220 kilometres and reaching widths of up to 40 kilometres, Lake Kariba covers approximately 5,580 square kilometres and holds an astonishing 180 billion cubic metres of water. By volume, it remains the largest man-made lake in the world, a scale that is difficult to comprehend until seen in person.
The flooding of the Kariba gorge created a dramatic landscape of rugged shorelines, secluded bays and scattered islands. So vast is the reservoir that it often resembles an inland sea rather than a lake. The town of Kariba was originally established to accommodate workers involved in the construction of the dam, while other settlements expanded to welcome communities displaced by the project. The creation of the lake profoundly changed both the landscape and the lives of the people who lived along the Zambezi valley.
As the reservoir filled, numerous fish species were introduced, leading to the development of a thriving commercial fishing industry. The abundance of aquatic life soon attracted a remarkable variety of wildlife, making lake Kariba one of most rewarding safari destinations. Today, visitors may encounter hippos and crocodiles along the shoreline, while elephants and buffalo frequently gather at the water’s edge. Predators such as lions, leopards and cheetahs can also be found within the surrounding ecosystems.
Lake Kariba is equally renowned for its birdlife. Birdwatchers can observe a wide variety of species, including cormorants, kingfishers and the iconic african fish eagle, whose distinctive call has become one of the defining sounds of the African wilderness.Whether explored by boat, on a lakeside safari or during a sunset cruise, lake Kariba offers a unique combination of spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and unforgettable safari experiences.