Conservation and Community in Matusadona National Park

Welcome aboard the MV Matusadona, your gateway to one of Zimbabwe’s most revered natural treasures – Matusadona National Park. Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Kariba, this park is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, including the majestic Black Rhino, sprawling mega herds of Elephant, and robust Lion populations.

Conservation and Community at Matusadona National Park

Reviving a Wilderness Gem

In 2019, a transformative partnership between African Parks and Zimparks began, marking a new era for Matusadona National Park. Their collective efforts are dedicated to restoring the park’s ecological health and wildlife populations, ensuring it regains its status as a premier wilderness area.

“Thanks for a wonderful experience in amazing surroundings. We will return.”


Vanashree & Anant

Conservation Highlights

Tracking for Conservation: Our initiative to collar ten elephants provides crucial data on their movements, helping us better protect these gentle giants and their habitat.

Enhanced Protection Efforts: Through stringent conservation law enforcement and active community engagement, we’ve seen a significant decrease in poaching activities, safeguarding our precious land and aquatic life.

Photo: Sean Hind
Photo: Sean Hind

Empowering Our Community

Sustainable Fishing Practices: By promoting legal access to commercial fishing grounds and supporting sustainable practices, we’ve not only improved fish populations but also the livelihoods of local fishermen.

Boosting Local Economy: Reinvestments in the tourism sector have sparked job creation and instilled a sense of pride among those employed by the park. This, in turn, enhances your experience, as every staff member you meet is a dedicated guardian of our natural heritage.

Educational Outreach: The Happy Readers Programme, operating in eight local schools, is dramatically improving literacy rates, ensuring the community grows with the park.

Join Our Cause

As you relish the serene beauty of Lake Kariba from the decks of the MV Matusadona, consider supporting our ongoing conservation efforts. Your contributions are pivotal in sustaining this magnificent park and its communities. To learn more about our partnership with African Parks and how you can help, please visit African Parks Partnership. If you feel inspired, donate here to make a difference.

Bookings & Enquiries

Contact details

Contact Linda Fisher:

Tel: +27 (0)33 342 7498
Whatsapp: +27 (0)82 806 4074

Send an email

Dates & Seasons

Lodge is open:

1 March – 30 November

Green Season:

1 Mar – 30 June & 1 – 30 November

High Season:

1 July – 31 October