Changa Safari Camp (Kariba)

Experience an unforgettable Zimbabwe wildlife safari at Changa Safari Camp. It is in a remote and secluded part of the Matusadona National Park, Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe. This romantic camp enjoys a private concession area within the Park. This waterfront lodge boasts nearly 4 kilometers of lake shore frontage for your Lake Kariba big 5 safari. The East African Styled luxury tents are private and exclusive with commanding views of the rugged Matusadona Mountains. A hidden gem in Zimbabwe.

Changa Safari Camp is an oasis of tranquility and offers a unique and authentic safari experience. On the shores of Lake Kariba. The lodge blends in with the environment. An ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The open air lounge area with welcoming leather chairs and sofas is shaded by a thatch roof. With bursts of color from the individually designed mosaic tiles. It’s a great spot where you can unwind while admiring the scenery.

The inviting swimming pool overlooks the lake and sits in the shade of Mopane trees. This provides a great location for a poolside cocktail or an afternoon dip in the heat of the day.

*For guests staying at Changa, this is an exciting reminder that they are witnessing a conservation success story in real time.

Skip to Changa Safari Camp Rates, Activities, or Specials, and Packages

Changa Safari Camp Accommodation

Changa Safari Camp has 6 x luxury en-suite tented rooms. The en suite has an outdoor bath, and a shower. They have private verandas with lake views.

Each luxury tent is tastefully decorated with unique African influences. From rustic wood to leather and woven basketry, crisp white linen to locally crafted furniture. All tents are mosquito proofed with specialized netting. There are fans for your comfort during the hot months.

There are also two family units. These consist of the normal luxury safari tent, and to this; a smaller replica of the tent. The second tent has two 3/4 beds which can be joined together to make a king bed. They also have a dressing room, separate shower, separate toilet, wash hand basin, and an outside deck. A secure tented corridor links the two tents. This allows children to move freely between their tent and their parents. In complete safety and privacy. Whilst the 2nd tent can be described as a ‘kids’ tent; it is tastefully furnished, private, and spacious enough to accommodate adults. Therefore the family units are suitable for both families and adult groups traveling together.

Families, couples, and groups of friends love it here. Nothing beats the fun, romance, and excitement of a Changa stay. How about booking out the entire camp for a wildly happy special occasion?

Discreetly positioned in the front facing trees, are small sprinklers that may be turned on. Inviting a flurry of feathers to your doorstep. Watch the colorful bird life darting in and out of the spray. The unique landscape surrounding Changa provides each tent with its own breathtaking view of the unspoiled environment.

Other Camp amenities and services include:

The main deck area leads to a lower deck, a fire pit, and a ‘beach’
Early morning tea and coffee are delivered to your tent at a prearranged time.
Solar power electricity in the camp.
WiFi is available. However, there is limited mobile phone coverage.
Daily laundry service is available.
Bathroom vanity with double basins & luxury amenities.
Outdoor bathtub.
Dressing table and ample cupboard space.
Universal plug points.
Lockable safety deposit bag for all your valuables.
Hairdryers are available at the front reception.
In-room guest amenities.
Wheelchair Friendly.
Curio shop.
On site Spa.

Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park

The Matusadona National Park consists of some 338000 acres of unspoiled and unfenced splendor. Rugged mountains, springs and streams, Miomba woodlands and Mopane scrublands; pristine riverine vegetation, crystal clear lake water, and grass flanked shoreline. All combine to create a unique habitat for healthy populations of African mammals. Elephants, who have adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle, frequent the shoreline. As do numerous species of antelope, their feeding patterns are governed by the ever changing lake levels. Lions, leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs occur in good numbers. A small, but very important population of endangered black rhinos roam the Park.

Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man made lake; covering almost 5,600 square kilometers. This vast expanse of freshwater is home to some fantastic fish species. These include the famous Tigerfish, Tilapia bream, Catfish, and the mighty Vundu.

In 2019, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (PWMA) partnered with African Parks in a 20 year management agreement for Matusadona National Park with the vision to revitalize the park for wildlife and communities. Since then, a holistic management approach that includes good governance, effective conservation law enforcement, community engagement initiatives, and species re-introductions has begun the restoration and conservation of this important landscape.

Besides being a haven for wildlife, the park also supports sustainable enterprises, education, and health services for local communities. These initiatives are accelerating economic development, improving livelihoods, and ensuring that local people benefit from, and support, the conservation of their natural heritage. At the same time, investment in tourism has begun to put Matusadona on the map as a premier destination. Securing employment opportunities and instilling a sense of pride among those employed by the park.

Changa Safari Camp Activities:

There is a varied range of exciting and relaxing activities to choose from. Including both morning and afternoon game drives, fishing for the famed fighting Tigerfish and stunning game walks on the concession; with an experienced and knowledgeable guide.

Or, indulge a little with a calm and rejuvenating massage or treatment in the most idyllic setting. This could not be a more pampering experience. After all, you are on holiday! The Spa at Changa is open at selected times each month.

Details on activities at Changa Safari Camp and a typical day on your Lake Kariba safari ↓

Walking

Arguably the best way to experience and feel in touch with the African bush. Changa’s professional guides have a thorough knowledge of the area. Therefore, you can experience Matusadona National Park ‘at its best’. For your comfort, walks are in the early mornings and late afternoons. We recommend wearing neutral or “bush” colored clothing. Because the terrain can be uneven and rocky; bring appropriate footwear. Track shoes are not ideal and they allow grass seeds and thorns to catch you.

Game Drives

Game drives may be by vehicle or boat on the concession and into the National Park. In the morning before and after breakfast and after mid-afternoon tea. Open game vehicles are the perfect way to discover the area. Providing a fantastic opportunity to see a variety of wildlife; including lions, buffalo, and elephants while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Birding

Bird watching can be done on either a gentle boat cruise or a game drive in the morning or afternoon. The birdlife in the park is prolific, with 350 different species identified in the area. These include ducks, herons, plovers, and storks. That congregate along the waterfront. Darters and cormorants use the putrefied and partially submerged trees that have stood since the creation of the lake some 50 years ago; as a base for their fishing forays. These airy trees, remnants of great hardwood forests; provide homes for bats and insects. Plus, vantage points, and nesting sites for fish eagles, darters, cormorants, and kingfishers. Other adept fishermen are ospreys and the iconic African fish eagle. These are often seen perched majestically on a high branch. Their clear ringing call has to be the most characteristic and evocative sound on Lake Kariba. It is truly a ‘WATER WILDERNESS’.

Fishing

For most of the year, Lake Kariba is one of the greatest places in Africa for fishing. For those guests who would like to have a go at catching their lunch or dinner; you can catch it and the lodge will cook it for you. Or head out for fighting tigerfish with experienced guides.

Boat Cruises

Relax and enjoy one of Lake Kariba’s most popular activities and a favorite at Changa. While drifting along the banks of the lake, you will also encounter some great wildlife sightings in their peaceful surroundings. What better way to end your day in Kariba. Listening to the sounds of hippos around you and witnessing an unforgettable sunset on the lake?

Sanyati Gorge

A short boat ride across the lake will bring you to the scenic Sanyati Gorge. Here you can meander peacefully through the steep cliffs for up to 10 km. The Sanyati Gorge is both unspoiled and undisturbed. An abundance of birdlife, the occasional sighting of antelope, and great fishing. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars for this activity as the dramatic landscape will leave you speechless.

A Typical Day at Changa Safari Camp

Changa endeavors to provide an exclusive, tailor made experience to suit you individually. Where possible activities are planned around you.

5.30 am – Rise and Shine, it’s Safari Time!

As the sun rises at dawn and the sounds of the chirping of birds; a tray of hot tea, coffee, and homemade biscuits arrives at your tent. Mornings are typically cool but tend to get warmer once the sun is up. For clients who are into healthy safaris, yoga is available.

Breakfast Time

Breakfast times at Changa are flexible depending upon which activity you choose to do in the morning. If you go out for an early morning activity, you will have a substantial continental breakfast before you go. Then during your activity, you will stop for tea/coffee and some baked rusks. If you choose to do a later activity; you will be able to enjoy a leisurely cooked breakfast before heading out. Served al fresco on the main elevated deck. Either under the shaded thatched open-air dining room or; under the Zig-Zag Terminalia tree overlooking the private beach.

6 am – 9 am: Your First Activity of the Day

Your friendly guide will meet you in the lounge area before departing for your chosen morning activity.
Whether it’s a game drive, game walk, or a fishing trip on the lake; you are guaranteed an exciting few hours to begin your day in Kariba.
Expert guides will be able to suggest activities and the best times to head out. Based on what they feel would give you the best experience. Game viewing times and fishing spots change with the seasons and the lake levels rising and falling throughout the year. Expect to see elephants, zebra, and buffalo along the lake shoreline or in the park itself. Before heading back to camp, stop for a relaxing tea break alfresco style; while immersed in the African bush.

Now it’s your time to relax

As temperatures rise during the hottest hours of the day; we suggest you follow in the footsteps of the animals and enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation. Make yourself at home in the comfortable lounge area. The perfect spot to read a book or play a board game. Or recline back by the pool area on a sun lounger with an iced cold drink overlooking the lake.

1 pm – Lunchtime

The gourmet cuisine will certainly be a highlight of your trip to Changa Safari Camp. The chefs lovingly prepare a variety of delicious meals for you using the freshest of ingredients. Lunch is al fresco-style. Either under the open air thatched dining room. Or; under the Terminalia tree, overlooking the private beach and the Lake Kariba shoreline. After lunch; enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, document your birdlife and wildlife sightings from the morning activity. Or retreat to your tent for a well deserved siesta or to read a book.

3.30 pm – 7 pm:  Afternoon Tea Time and Your Second Activity of the Day

A tasty afternoon tea in the lounge area with your guide and the rest of the guests in camp. After a glass of homemade iced tea or freshly brewed local coffee, with a range of baked goodies; you will venture out for your next chosen activity. Don’t forget to bring along a hat, sunglasses, sun cream, insect repellent. And of course; a camera to capture that iconic Lake Kariba sunset shot!

With the heat from the afternoon slowly passing, the wildlife becomes a little more active. Your knowledgeable guide will ensure you visit the very best spots to view a variety of game and birdlife; as they emerge from the shaded bushveld.

If this is your first trip to Lake Kariba, you are in for a treat. With the sunsets being some of the most spectacular and breathtaking moments you will witness. Watching the warm colors surround you and reflect off the lake. Paired with an ice cold sundowner; with no one else around you, is sure to be an ultimate part of your day.

Dinner Time

A delicious 3 course candle lit dinner is served with the beat of a drum at 7.30 pm. Dinner is at a different location for each night of your stay. Enjoy a traditional meal set around the campfire on the sandy beach, under starry African skies. Or; a fine dining experience on the lovely deck area overlooking the lake. Private dining is available for those opting for a more personal and romantic setting. Or to celebrate a special occasion.

Time for Bed

With the early wake up calls, most guests are ready to wind down for the day shortly after dinner. Soak up the sounds of the African bush as you enjoy a nightcap from the comfort of your private deck. Or a luxurious open air bath. For those not quite ready to go to bed, enjoy an after dinner tipple; while stargazing under the night sky and sharing the adventures of the day with other guests. Or sitting back and listening to the guide’s fireside tales of Lake Kariba’s history and the legendary Nyami-Nyami. A firm favorite with guests!

Dining at Changa Safari Camp

Changa Safari Camp’s cuisine will certainly be a highlight of your stay. Using only fresh ingredients, the taste and presentation of each dish will leave you looking forward to the next meal. Breakfast and lunch are both served al fresco on the main elevated deck either under the shaded thatched open-air dining room or under the terminalia tree overlooking the private beach.

Afternoon tea is a delight with a selection of teas, local coffee and a sweet treat. Finishing off the day with a candlelit dinner will be served with the beat of the drum at 7.30pm at a different location each night of your stay.

The best time to safari, tiger fish, walking, boat cruise for a Lake Kariba safari:

Activities are available year round.

The rainy/green season months are December to March. The best time for bird watching is November – April. While this is the rainy season, it is excellent for bird watching. Plus seeing the landscape in lush, green condition is great for photography.

The dry season months are April to November. The nights and mornings can be chilly during the winter months of June and July but the days are sunny and warm. While September to October are very hot.

The best time for wildlife is the dry season. The vegetation dries out, making it easier to spot animals. And the water sources attract high concentrations of wildlife. Peak Season is from August – October. These are the hottest and driest months, offering the most intense game viewing.

Where is Changa Safari Camp?

Flying in over Lake Kariba is something truly incredible. Leaving you with a clear idea of just how vast the lake is. You will enjoy views of the rugged Matusadona mountain terrain. Outcroppings of islands. A sea of white trees jutting out of the glass like water. And herds of elephants grazing on the new shoots of green grass on the shorelines.

Light aircraft seat rates are available throughout the year.

Kanjedza Airstrip is the closest airstrip. Only 30 minutes from camp.If you stay for 3 nights, the flight is free! A minimum of 2 people for the flight.

From Kariba Main Airport; it is a 20 minute drive from the airport to Marineland Harbor. This is used during the rainy season months of December to March. Followed by a 40 minute boat cruise across the lake to Changa.

There are several chartered flight options. Either from Harare, Hwange, Mana Pools, or Victoria Falls. You’ll fly into Fothergill Island and then a 15 minute boat ride in wet season or a 30 minute game drive in dry season to the camp. Or Kariba Main Airport based on weather conditions & at the charter companies’ discretion.

Self drive is not recommended unless guests are serious 4×4 enthusiasts. From Harare, the drive will take approx. 10 hours.

Changa Safari Camp Accommodation Rates

These rates are in US$ on an All-Inclusive basis per night including the increased VAT amount that came into effect in 2026.

All rates are valid until 31st October 2027.

Child Policy

Child rates are for kids under 12.
Children under 2 years of age stay for free.

There are 6 x Deluxe tents that can be twin or double bed configurations.
Deluxe tents can accommodate 2 x adults. A child’s bed can be added on request (for those under 12 years). The rate will be 50% of the adult rate.

There are 2 x Family tents that can accommodate 2 x adults in the adult tent, and 2 x children in the kids’ tent. On request, a third child can be accommodated. The third child will pay 50% of the adult rate.
Adults can be accommodated in the kids’ tent if requested. The rate is 20% off the normal per person sharing rate.

Single supplements:

In high season, a 25% Single Supplement applies. This is from 1st June until 31st October.
The rest of the year allows for 1 x free single supplement per booking. Thereafter, a 25% surcharge applies.

Rates Include / Exclude

Rates include accommodation, all meals, and snacks, all beverages including teas & coffees, laundry, WiFi, activities, VAT at 15.5% (since 1st January 2026), and 2% Government Tourism Levy.
Excludes National park fees, Conservation fees, and transfers.

Changa Safari Camp Accommodation Specials

Changa Safari Camp is exclusive and romantic for honeymooners and special occasions. Use these below special offers to create your memorable, exciting and wildly romantic Big 5 safari camp itinerary in one of the world’s most beautiful settings. A truly immersive safari experience awaits.

Stay 6 Pay 5 combo with Changa Safari Camp and The Hide

Treat yourself to an extraordinary experience with this incredible special offer. Spend 6 nights on safari with 3 nights at both of these beautiful camps, and you will receive one night for free. Changa Safari Camp at Lake Kariba & The Hide in Hwange National Park. More information on the Hwange and Kariba combination package.

3 Destinations, 3 Free Flights!

Explore all the very best that Zimbabwe has to offer with this amazing deal. An 8 or 9 night package in 3 exclusive safari camps with 3 free flights!
3 nights at The Hide Safari Camp in Hwange National Park, 2 or 3 nights at Changa Safari Camp on Lake Kariba in Matusadona National Park, and 3 nights at John’s Camp in Mana Pools National Park.

See our 9 or 10 day Classic Zimbabwe Package.

+ Kariba Accommodation

Watch this space – More Kariba Accommodation to follow soon!

Changa Safari Camp (Kariba)

Posted: June 5, 2024

Experience an unforgettable wildlife safari at Changa Safari Camp in the Matusadona National Park, Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe