A crocodile resting on a sandy shore near a body of water with trees in the background.

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Our top choices for Kariba hotels

Cutty Sark Lodge

Cutty Sark Lodge
2.5 star property
Kariba
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Great location, very clean, very friendly and accomodating staff"
Canada
Kevin
The price is NZ$190
includes taxes & fees
11 July - 12 July
Cutty Sark Lodge

Caribbea Bay Resort

Caribbea Bay Resort
3.0 star property
Kariba
7.8 out of 10, Good, (27 reviews)
"Pool Bar and cold beer, all you need when its 38 degrees"
South Africa
Phillip
The price is NZ$494
includes taxes & fees
6 July - 7 July
Caribbea Bay Resort

Hornbill Lodge

Hornbill Lodge
3.0 star property
Kariba
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3 reviews)
"I liked the outdoor space. The food was nice. I didn't like the mosquito nets that are mended."
United States
WINNIE
The price is NZ$499
includes taxes & fees
12 July - 13 July
Hornbill Lodge

Kariba

Kariba
3.5 star property
Kariba
5.6 out of 10, (4 reviews)
"The road to the property is too steep the last bit of it and terrible with potholes, it was a surprise small cars will struggle. The staff was pleasant and helpful. "
United Kingdom
Petronella
The price is NZ$166
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Kariba

Luna Lodge

Luna Lodge
2.5 star property
Kariba
6.4 out of 10, (6 reviews)
"Absolutely rubbish! Disgusting. Place is dirty and filthy. The swimming pool had no water. I literally left the place after 48 hours even after paying for 7 days. Receptionist are rude. They charged me even after I had paid already. They claimed they had no association to hotels.com. I had to make numerous international phone calls to hotels.com to review my bookings. The place is absolutely dirty and should not even be registered on hotels.com"
Ireland
Janesh Harish
The price is NZ$88
includes taxes & fees
31 July - 1 Aug
Luna Lodge

Sunset Lakeview Lodge

Sunset Lakeview Lodge
4.0 star property
Kariba
7.4 out of 10, Good, (3 reviews)
"The place is quiet and has a serene atmosphere. The staff are friendly and respectful. "
South Africa
Charity
The price is NZ$317
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Sunset Lakeview Lodge

Charming 3 Bedroom Guesthouse - 2300

Charming 3 Bedroom Guesthouse - 2300
2.0 star property
Kariba
The price is NZ$598
includes taxes & fees
8 July - 9 July
Charming 3 Bedroom Guesthouse - 2300
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Learn more about Kariba

Cruise along the massive Lake Kariba shoreline to spot elephants drinking while hippos and crocodiles lurk beneath the surface. Book a houseboat safari to fish for tiger fish and watch spectacular sunsets over the Matusadona mountains from the water.

A group of elephants standing in a muddy area near a body of water with a clear sky.

Top Kariba Hotel Reviews

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More cheap accommodation in Kariba

Find out more about Kariba

Top reasons to visit Kariba

  • Stunning Lake Views: Kariba boasts breathtaking views of Lake Kariba, perfect for relaxation and photography.
  • Wildlife Adventures: Experience incredible wildlife safaris, where you can spot elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the tranquil waters of the lake.
  • Charming Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodges and hotels that provide comfort and scenic lake views.
  • Rich Local Culture: Engage with the local communities and discover their traditions and customs.

Find great hotels in Kariba

Discover the charm of Kariba, Zimbabwe, where diverse accommodation options await to enhance your stay. From inviting lodges to comfortable hotels, you’ll find ideal settings for family getaways, business trips, or lakeside retreats. With stunning views of Lake Kariba and a variety of services tailored to your needs, Kariba offers a memorable experience for all travellers seeking adventure and relaxation in this beautiful region.

  • Caribbea Bay Resort: Nestled along the shores of Lake Kariba, Caribbea Bay Resort is a 3-star hotel that embodies a relaxed beach retreat for families and holidaymakers alike. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy various water activities and sun-soaked days. This family-friendly resort offers a range of amenities tailored for children, including a playground and supervised childcare services, ensuring peace of mind for parents. The resort’s inviting atmosphere is complemented by its spacious accommodations and on-site dining, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a memorable family vacation.
  • Tamarind Holiday and Conference Resort: Tamarind Holiday and Conference Resort is a budget-friendly option with a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Ideal for families and business travellers, this hotel provides a harmonious blend of leisure and professional amenities. Children will find plenty of entertainment with features such as a trampoline, playground, and a free children’s club. The resort is well-suited for those looking to balance work and play, with a welcoming atmosphere and facilities that cater to all ages, making it an excellent choice for both relaxation and productivity.
  • Warthogs Safari Camp: Offering a unique lodge experience, Warthogs Safari Camp is rated 8.2 out of 10 and provides guests with an authentic taste of the wild. This 3-star lodge features a restaurant and bar on-site, serving delightful meals and drinks. Guests can partake in thrilling game drives nearby and savour the stunning views of Lake Kariba. The camp’s rustic charm and focus on nature create an inviting environment for those looking to immerse themselves in Zimbabwe's beautiful landscapes while enjoying comfortable lodging.

Things to do in Kariba

Kariba is perfect for outdoor and adventure-loving tourists, offering stunning scenery and a variety of activities. You can enjoy walking safaris, incredible wildlife experiences, custom excursions, and package tours. Scenic boat trips on the lake provide a unique perspective of the area, making your visit to Kariba an unforgettable experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kariba

To save money on your trip to Kariba, consider visiting in March, June, or September when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Thursdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by budget and location, and look for package deals that combine accommodation with flights and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to check for special hotel deals to maximise your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kariba are March, June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kariba is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kariba is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Kariba is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to customise your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and deals, simply organise the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Kariba hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Best time to go to Kariba

The best time to visit Kariba is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. October is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January77.5°F (25.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
February77.0°F (25.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May71.8°F (22.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
June68.0°F (20.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
July67.5°F (19.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
September79.9°F (26.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October84.7°F (29.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November84.0°F (28.9°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
December80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kariba

Accessing Kariba, Zimbabwe, can be done via several nearby airports. Lusaka (LUN-Kenneth Kaunda Intl.), located 140.0km away, boasts excellent hotels such as the 5-star Radisson Blu Hotel and Mika Convention Center Meanwood, both within 16.1km of the airport, offering airport shuttle services. Chiawa (RYL-Royal Airstrip), situated 99.8km from Kariba, features comfortable lodgings nearby. Additionally, Jeki (JEK-Jeki Airstrip) is located 127.1km away, with options like the 4-star Sausage Tree Camp and 3.5-star Potato Bush Camp close by. Each airport provides various transport services to facilitate your journey to Kariba.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Kariba?
The best area to stay in Kariba is along the hillside overlooking the Kariba Dam and Lake Kariba, particularly in the Heights area.

This area offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Matusadona National Park. It's home to several much-loved lodges and hotels, often featuring infinity pools that blend seamlessly with the lake horizon. The main road through the Heights provides easy access to viewpoints and local amenities.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find the Heights area particularly appealing. The lodges here often provide secluded settings, private balconies with lake views, and opportunities for sunset cruises directly from nearby jetties. It's an ideal base for experiencing the natural beauty and tranquility of Kariba.

For those seeking proximity to the town's facilities and a more local experience, the area around the Kariba Dam Wall offers a different appeal. Here, you're closer to the local markets and the main port for boat transfers and fishing excursions.
What are the best family hotels in Kariba?
For families travelling to Kariba, the Caribbea Bay Resort, Tamarind Holiday and conference Resort, and Warthogs Safari Camp are all excellent choices.

The 3-star Caribbea Bay Resort, with a rating of 7.8, offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities including a children's pool, a playground, and connecting rooms for added convenience. Parents will appreciate the availability of babysitting services and free cots, while children can enjoy supervised childcare and kids' meals. It is also conveniently located just 1.4 km from Lake Kariba.

Another great option is the Tamarind Holiday and conference Resort, which has a strong rating of 8.8. This resort features a free children's club, a playground, and a waterslide, ensuring endless fun for the little ones. Families can also make use of free rollaway extra beds, and enjoy the outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar. Lake Kariba is 4.1 km away.

The 3-star Warthogs Safari Camp, rated 8.2, is another good choice for families. This camp boasts an outdoor pool and a children's pool, along with a poolside bar. Many rooms offer stunning mountain and lake views, providing a picturesque setting for your stay. It is situated 4.7 km from Lake Kariba.
What are the best spa hotels in Kariba?
For an excellent spa hotel in Kariba, the Caribbea Bay Resort is a fantastic choice.

This 3-star resort, rated 7.8, offers an accessible spa, ensuring a relaxing stay for all guests. Convenience is key with free full breakfast and self-parking, alongside a complimentary airport shuttle service available 24 hours a day, which is wonderful for any flight schedule. Guests will also appreciate the free WiFi and complimentary toiletries provided.
What hotels in Kariba offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Kariba offering a complimentary breakfast, the Caribbea Bay Resort is an excellent choice.

This 3-star hotel, with a 7.8 rating, provides a full free breakfast for its guests, ensuring a great start to your day. It also offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. The resort is conveniently located just 1.4 km from Lake Kariba, making it easy to visit this popular attraction. For travellers arriving by air, a 24-hour airport shuttle is available, and free self-parking is provided for those with their own vehicles.
What are the best budget hotels in Kariba?
For budget-friendly accommodation in Kariba, consider the Caribbea Bay Resort, Tamarind Holiday and conference Resort, and Warthogs Safari Camp.

The 3-star Caribbea Bay Resort, with a 7.8 rating, offers complimentary self-parking, free WiFi, and a choice of free full breakfast or free breakfast. It also provides a 24-hour airport shuttle. This resort is conveniently located just 1.4 km from Lake Kariba.

Another excellent option is the Tamarind Holiday and conference Resort, which has an 8.8 rating. Guests can enjoy free self-parking, free WiFi, and a 24-hour airport shuttle. The resort boasts an outdoor pool with sun loungers, a poolside bar, pool umbrellas, and even a waterslide. It is situated 4.1 km from Lake Kariba.

The 3-star Warthogs Safari Camp, rated 8.2, is a great choice for those seeking a tranquil setting. It provides free self-parking and features an outdoor pool, a poolside bar, and a children's pool. Many guests appreciate the mountain and lake views from the camp, which is located 4.7 km from Lake Kariba.
What are the most romantic hotels in Kariba for couples?
For a romantic getaway in Kariba, couples should consider the Tamarind Holiday and conference Resort or Warthogs Safari Camp.

The Tamarind Holiday and Conference Resort, with an 8.8 rating, offers couples dining options and a private pool, which can be a lovely feature for a romantic stay. The resort also provides poolside sun loungers and umbrellas for relaxation.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Warthogs Safari Camp, rated 8.2. This camp provides lovely lake and mountain views, with a patio and terrace for enjoying the scenery together. It also features an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, great for unwinding.
What are the best hotels in Kariba near Lake Kariba?
For hotels in Kariba near Lake Kariba that are family-friendly, consider the Caribbea Bay Resort, Warthogs Safari Camp, and Tamarind Holiday and Conference Resort.

The 3-star Caribbea Bay Resort, with a rating of 7.8, is located just 1.4 km from Lake Kariba. This resort is well-suited for families, offering a playground, a children's pool, and supervised childcare. Connecting rooms and cribs are available, and a babysitting service can be arranged.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Warthogs Safari Camp, rated 8.2, which is 4.7 km from Lake Kariba. Guests can enjoy mountain and lake views, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, and a children's pool.

The Tamarind Holiday and Conference Resort, with a high rating of 8.8, is located 4.1 km from Lake Kariba. This resort provides a free children's club, a playground, and an outdoor pool with a waterslide, sun loungers, and umbrellas. Free rollaway beds are also available.
When is the best time to go to Kariba?
The best time to visit Kariba is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is warm and dry, and wildlife viewing is at its peak.

During these months, the temperatures are pleasant, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boat cruises on Lake Kariba, fishing, and game drives. The lack of rain means the vegetation is sparser, and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find this period great for sunset cruises on the lake, often spotting elephants and hippos along the shore. The clear skies also make for stunning stargazing opportunities.

Families will appreciate the comfortable weather for exploring Matusadona National Park, where game drives are more productive.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Kariba.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Kariba with Expedia?
One Key™ – Expedia's free travel rewards programme – gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Kariba hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Kariba?
Prices for hotels in Kariba often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$88 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.