Matusadona Cruise Boat

Location: Lake Kariba | Zimbabwe

Price guide: £££££ More than £500 per person per night

The Matusadona is a boat like no other. A floating behemoth with a surface area of approximately 5,400 square metres, it cruises along Lake Kariba – the largest man-made reservoir in the world – by harnessing hydroelectric power from the connecting Zambezi River. This is a wildlife cruise that offers a water-based game viewing experience that is different to the land-based equivalent, with the chance to see herds of elephants frolicking in the water at close proximity.

Perfect forFamilies or groups of up to seven.

In the know

Warm up in the cosy saloon with a Cognac on chilly evenings while enjoying wildlife documentaries
The luxurious cabins can host up to 7 people
Head to the game-viewing pontoon to see animals in the water

Recommended for...

Cruise
Family-friendly
Honeymoon
Off the Beaten Track

Hotel Overview

Sense of place

The Matusadona Cruise Boat will take you on a thrilling adventure on the picturesque Lake Kariba – the world's largest man-made reservoir by volume.

Rooms on Matusadona Cruise Boat

There are three comfortable air-conditioned cabins, featuring African timber and en-suites, that can sleep up to seven passengers in style and luxury.

Food & Drink

The middle deck comprises an al-fresco breakfast area and indoor saloon with a dining area, while the upper deck has a dining and bar area.

Facilities

On the upper deck you'll find a spacious open-plan outdoor entertainment area, with lake views, two lounges, and a dining and bar area – as well as an open-air Jacuzzi. The game-viewing pontoon is perhaps where you'll have most fun, watching the local wildlife of the area.

Activities on Matusadona Cruise Boat

On board the Matusadona, you'll get to see the most breath-taking sunset views with a the lush green backdrop of the Zimbabwean landscape stretching out endlessly. Fishing and game-viewing are the top activities and main attractions of the Matusadona. The game-viewing pontoon isn't just a great place for watching the local animals but doubles as a great platform for budding photographers to snap some amazing holiday shots.

Best time to go

Best time to travel

Good time to travel (but some limitations)

Travel is possible (but it’s not the best time)

Travel is not recommended

Best time to go

Jul-Nov

Hotel location

The Matusadona Cruise Boat cruises around Lake Kariba, which can be reached from Kariba Airport or Bumi Hills Airfield, or via road from various locations in Zimbabwe and Zambia. You can embark at Marineland Harbour (a 25-minute drive from Kariba Airport or a 15-minute drive from the Zimbabwe border), or at Bumi Hills Airfield, which is on the shores of the lake (a mere five-minute transfer to the jetty).