Musango Safari Camp

Sitting atop its very own island in the expanse of Lake Kariba, not far from Bumi Hills, is Musango Safari Camp. As with Bumi Hills, it’s just outside the Matusadona National Park. A small, well-established safari lodge, Musango is owned and run by the well-known Steve Edwards, former conservationist and warden of Matusadona.

Island life at Musango

The Musango island is densely forested with very little beach in the wet season – and sweeping beaches in the dry season (July to October). There is a perimeter fence around the lodge so it’s quite safe to walk around the camp area day and night.

Rustic, island-style chalets

The 16-bed accommodation at Musango comprises small tents under thatch which look out over the lake towards the morning sunrise. Although simple, they’re elegant with fine attention to detail and comfort. The chalets are about 10 metres from the water’s edge in the wet season, almost double that in the dry season. The atmosphere here is rustic and relaxed. There are no air conditioners or overhead fans and no electricity, but there is a generator in the evenings that lights up the lodge. Hot water is provided by donkey boilers – which are very efficient (heated by fire) and there are battery-based electrical points at reception where you can charge your camera batteries by day.

Food is fresh, delicious and beautifully served.

Most activities on offer

The lodge is private and secluded and perfect for all water-based activities from boat and sundowner cruises to boat-based game viewing and fishing. There are more activities on offer here than at any other safari lodge in Zimbabwe. Game driving is offered as well as bush walks with an experienced guide and visits to the local fishing villages which are extremely popular.

Game viewing at Musango

Musango is outside the national park and has its own concession area for game drives. However, the bush can be dense (especially in the rainy season) and the best game viewing is on the flood plains close to the shores of Lake Kariba. You’re very likely to see game like waterbuck, impala, kudu and buffalo as well as lots of hippos, crocodiles and elephants. Lions are about but more elusive, as are the other predators. There are over 400 species of birds here. Steve is a superb guide with a profound knowledge of the area, its history and its many inhabitants: furry, feathered, four-legged, horned, scaly or insectivorous.

Getting there

The easiest route to Musango is a short flight from Victoria Falls, Harare or Kariba. Transfers by boat and road are also available.

Our take on Musango Safari Camp

Musango is a wonderful place to go and simply unwind. You’re surrounded by spectacular scenery and, perhaps because it’s on an island, there’s a slow, unhurried pace to daily life here. Soon after arriving, you’re made to feel part of Steve and Wendy’s welcoming family. It’s one of those special places on earth - one you’ll always feel it’s too soon to leave. And one you’ll always want to hurry back to.