Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made dam by volume, extending over 5000km2 along Zambia’s southern border. Completed in 1959, the dam provides hydro-electric power to both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and fish stocks – mainly tilapia, kapenta and the prized tigerfish – are also shared. Access to the Zambian side the lake is fairly limited, with Sinazongwe or Siavonga the only two towns of any significance. Siavonga is the larger, a sleepy lakeside holiday village that’s popular with locals and only a few hours’ drive from Lusaka. Sinazongwe is much smaller and less developed, and most head to Siavonga as their base for exploring the lake. 

Lake Kariba is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world and is situated on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. The lake was formed by the damming of the Zambezi River in the late 1950s, creating a massive reservoir.

Key features and characteristics of Lake Kariba include:

1. Size and Location: It covers an expansive area, spanning approximately 5,580 square kilometers (2,150 square miles). The lake extends over 280 kilometers (170 miles) in length and reaches widths of up to 40 kilometers (25 miles).

2. Formation: Lake Kariba was created in the 1950s following the construction of the Kariba Dam, which was designed to generate hydroelectric power and control the flow of the Zambezi River.

3. Hydroelectric Power: The dam built on the lake is a significant source of hydroelectric power for both Zambia and Zimbabwe. It has a substantial generating capacity that helps supply electricity to the surrounding regions.

4. Wildlife: The lake is renowned for its diverse wildlife, both in the water and in the surrounding areas. The reservoir is home to various species of fish, including the famous Zambezi tigerfish, which is highly sought after by anglers. The surrounding land is inhabited by a variety of wildlife, such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.

5. Tourism and Recreation: Lake Kariba is a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife safaris. The scenic beauty of the lake, with its stunning sunsets and the surrounding landscape, draws visitors from around the world.

6. Islands: The lake is dotted with several islands, some of which are inhabited and offer tourist accommodations. Among the notable islands are Chete Island, Chikanka Island, and the Bumi Hills, each providing unique experiences and beautiful scenery.

7. Environmental Impact: While the dam has provided substantial benefits in terms of electricity generation and water regulation, it has also had environmental consequences. The altered flow of the Zambezi River has impacted the ecosystems and habitats of the region.

8. Local Communities: The lake and its surroundings support various local communities, providing fishing and agricultural opportunities, as well as sustaining livelihoods through tourism-related activities.

Overall, Lake Kariba stands as a testament to human engineering, providing energy, supporting wildlife, and offering recreational opportunities, while also prompting considerations about the environmental impact of large-scale water management projects.