Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe? If you're planning to go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi
  2. Important essentials for Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi
  3. Activities for Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi
  4. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe

Based on the climate and weather in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe by month

January

January for Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

March

If you go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in March, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

April

April here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

May

May very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

June

June here very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to choose the right kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in July, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in August, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

September

If you go to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in September, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

October

October in this region very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

November

November is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you are traveling to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi in December, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

What to do in Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe

Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi is a top tourist destination in Zimbabwe, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a diverse range of wildlife. The lake is the largest man-made lake in the world and is located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The area is renowned for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and water activities. Here are the top tourist attractions you can enjoy in Kariba-Lower Zambezi.

1. Kariba Dam and Wall

The Kariba Dam is the largest dam in Zimbabwe and is an engineering marvel. The dam was built between 1955 and 1959 to generate hydroelectric power and create the Kariba Lake. The wall stands at 128 meters, and visitors can explore the dam and learn about how it works. The spectacular view of the dam and lake from various viewpoints is not to be missed.

2. Kariba Houseboats

Kariba houseboats are a unique way to experience the lake, offering an unforgettable holiday. The boats are equipped with modern facilities, including a kitchen, a lounge, and a bedroom. Visitors can go for fishing, bird-watching, or even visit the local villages along the lake's shoreline. The houseboats provide a tranquil, relaxing experience on the water.

3. Chizarira National Park

Chizarira National Park is a remote and rugged wilderness park located on the Zambezi Escarpment's edge. Visitors can discover the park's beauty through guided walks or game drives. It is best known for its stunning views overlooking Lake Kariba, the wildlife that roam the park, and waterfalls flowing with crystal clear water.

4. Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park adjoins the Lake Kariba on the Zimbabwean side. The park is a perfect destination for wildlife lovers, boasting of an impressive collection of hippos, crocodiles, buffalos, and elephants. Other animals you may encounter in the park include lions, leopards, hyenas, and many more.

5. Mana Pools National Park

This ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most picturesque places in Zimbabwe. The park is situated along the banks of the Zambezi River and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including African wild dogs, buffalos, hippos, crocodiles, and many others. Mana Pools National Park is popular with tourists who want an authentic and adventurous wilderness experience.

Conclusively, a journey to Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi is a must-visit experience for those seeking an authentic wilderness adventure in Zimbabwe. With unparalleled scenic beauty, unmatched wildlife, and a wide range of activities to undertake, any tourist to Zimbabwe cannot afford to miss visiting the lake. Moreover, it provides a unique opportunity to have a glimpse of the rich history, culture, and traditions of Zimbabwe.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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