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Matusadona National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Zimbabwe

Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park is located on the shores of Lake Kariba, offering a diverse range of wildlife and stunning landscapes. Its remote location makes it a haven for animals and adventurous visitors looking to experience Africa's untamed beauty.

National Park548,0002+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

548,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park is located on the shores of Lake Kariba, offering a diverse range of wildlife and stunning landscapes. Its remote location makes it a haven for animals and adventurous visitors looking to experience Africa's untamed beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Matusadona National Park is situated in northern Zimbabwe on the southern shores of Lake Kariba. The park encompasses a variety of ecosystems, from the floodplains of the lake to rugged mountains and miombo woodlands. Created as a Game Reserve in 1963, Matusadona became a National Park in 1975. Its history is closely linked to the creation of Lake Kariba and the subsequent relocation of wildlife in the Operation Noah. Matusadona is famed for its significant population of elephants and African buffalo, along with predators such as lions and leopards. It also houses over 240 bird species, making it a haven for bird watching enthusiasts. Recreational activities include walking safaris, game drives, and fishing, with the chance to catch tiger fish in the lake. Moreover, the park offers exceptional photographic opportunities, especially during sunset when the light dances on the waters of Lake Kariba.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Matusadona National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Wilderness Escapade at Changa Safari Camp★ 8.2⌖ 11 miWildlife Safaris
Changa Safari Camp

Wilderness Escapade at Changa Safari Camp

Explore Changa Safari Camp situated by Lake Kariba in Matusadona National Park. Enjoy activities like wildlife safaris, fishing, and birdwatching. Ideal for adventure seekers, best visited from May to October.

Wildlife SafarisView Details→
Wildlife Wonders at Matusadona National Park★ 8.5⌖ 18 miWildlife Viewing
Matusadona National Park

Wildlife Wonders at Matusadona National Park

Explore Matusadona National Park, a wildlife sanctuary along Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe. Known for its scenic landscapes, it offers wildlife viewing, boat safaris, and camping opportunities. Visit in the dry season for the best experience.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Lake Kariba: Africa's Enchanting Reservoir★ 8.5⌖ 39 miWildlife Safari
Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba: Africa's Enchanting Reservoir

Experience the wild beauty of Lake Kariba, straddling Zimbabwe and Zambia. Ideal for wildlife safaris and fishing, this serene, remote location is accessible by car. Best explored from May to October, it offers stunning views and cultural insights of the local Tonga people.

Wildlife SafariView Details→
Wilderness Wonder of Zimbabwe★ 8.4⌖ 82 miWildlife Viewing
Chizarira National Park

Wilderness Wonder of Zimbabwe

Explore the remote Chizarira National Park in Zimbabwe, offering wildlife viewing and hiking. Spanning 2,000 sq km, it provides quiet solitude and dramatic landscapes. Best visited in the dry season for spotting elephants and bird species against the Zambezi Valley backdrop.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
The Wild Beauty of Mana Pools★ 8.8⌖ 84 miWalking Safaris
Mana Pools National Park

The Wild Beauty of Mana Pools

Explore Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe for its iconic walking safaris and canoeing adventures. See elephants, lions, and vibrant birdlife while enjoying stunning landscapes. The best time to visit is from May to October for a quiet, remote experience.

Walking SafarisView Details→
Birdwatching Bliss at Lochinvar National Park★ 8.9⌖ 100 miBirdwatching
Lochinvar National Park

Birdwatching Bliss at Lochinvar National Park

Explore Lochinvar National Park in Zambia, a paradise for birdwatchers with over 400 species, including the endangered Wattled Crane. Enjoy cultural tours and hot springs. Best visited from November to April. The park offers solitude in a remote setting.

BirdwatchingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Tashinga Camp for stunning views over Lake Kariba✦ The abundant elephant and buffalo herds in the park✦ Unique bird species, perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts✦ Scenic boat rides on Lake Kariba for unique perspectives
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Matusadona National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Matusadona National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Matusadona National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Matusadona National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Matusadona National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Matusadona National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Matusadona National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Matusadona National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees required; guided safaris recommended.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Matusadona National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Matusadona National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Siavonga
⌖ 18.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Siavonga, Zambia

A waterside town offering vibrant lake-based adventures and access to rugged terrain, perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a blend of water and land activities on Lake Kariba.

May to October (dry season)Explore Town
Kariba
⌖ 22.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kariba, Zimbabwe

A lakeside town perfect for exploring Africa's wild side with serene waters and abundant wildlife, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.

April to SeptemberExplore Town
Chiawa
⌖ 67.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chiawa, Zambia

A remote wilderness area along the Zambezi River offering rich wildlife encounters and authentic African safari experiences focused on water and land adventures.

May to October (Dry Season)Explore Town
Karoi
⌖ 78.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Karoi, Zimbabwe

A serene agricultural town with access to unique outdoor experiences and rich cultural heritage close to Zimbabwe's untamed landscapes.

Winter (May to August)Explore Town
Chongwe
⌖ 96.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chongwe, Lusaka Province

A charming Zambian town offering unique river and wildlife adventures set amidst beautiful landscapes.

Dry Season (May to October)Explore Town
Binga
⌖ 98.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Binga, Matabeleland North Province

Remote lakeside town offering rugged outdoor adventures with a focus on water-based activities and wildlife exploration near Lake Kariba.

April to October (dry season)Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Matusadona National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.