Zimbabwe: Houseboat on Lake Kariba

Sunday 24 September: After breakfast we make our way, via some wrong turns, cursing and reversing,  to the harbour to find our boat, Zambuka. 

Loading Zambuka

We load everything on board and select our cabins. Zambuka has 4 double air-conditioned cabins and 2 bathrooms. Neil and I have elected to sleep on deck like last time but we have 2 singles, sleeping head to toe, which is not quite as romantic but nevertheless cool and airy. The back upper deck has a well stocked bar and dining table, so we tuck into the beers while a delegation on the tender boat head off to pay park fees. 

Tender boat

We have a staff of 3 - captain, cook and deck hand.We have chosen a fully catered set menu so lunch is served as we set sail. Oh, the luxury of it all.

Cheers Zambuka! Off we go...

Dining Deck

There's a plunge pool on the front upper deck and the party is immediately underway.

Plunge pool party!

Monday 25 September : Every morning after wake up coffee and rusks, the tender boats head out; one for fishing and one for game viewing. There's another excursion every evening with sundowners. 

The houseboat sets sail while we tuck into brunch each morning. Each afternoon the captain finds a mooring in a scenic area to stop for the night. 

 

The houseboat also has a swimming cage at the back which can be lowered into the water. Another party..

The swimming cage

Tuesday 26 September : Repeat. There's plenty of time for chatting, reading, napping, drinking, singing,dancing...

Leopard on the bank...spotted from game tender boat

 

Details: In every way, Maureen at Kariba Houseboat Charters did a wonderful job. Zambuka is a great boat and you can pay for it all in South Africa, which does help the logistics.
A houseboat on Lake Kariba should be on everyone's "Top 10 things to do in Africa" list. And once again..the these fancy safari companies can't match us in authenticity, fun or value.