Lake Kariba in Zambia is the largest man-made lake in the world. Completed in 1959, it was designed to provide hydroelectric power to Zambia and Zimbabwe. 280 km of river became a huge lake of 5200 km2! Chete Island looks out from Lake Kariba. Historically, the construction of Lake Kariba was surrounded by much debate: thousands of BaTonga villagers were immediately displaced and much of the wildlife drowned despite the ‘Operation Noah’ initiative to save and relocate animals as the waters rose. However, that was fifty years ago and today the lake is home to rich fish and aquatic life, and its shorelines are rich in wildlife and beauty. This is a place to fish, a place to quietly relax in stunning natural surroundings, and a place to go on safari – a kind of three-for-one experience!
Chete Island is a private wildlife reserve and bird sanctuary and is the largest island in the lake (27 km2). It is a remote southern island, very isolated except for the glimpse of kapenta (Limnothrissa miodon) fishing gear in the distance.
Known as a “wildwater wilderness,” this is a place where game and birds thrive, fully protected and unadulterated. Despite the small size of the island, its game is not tame. Although populations are not as dense here as they are in other Zambian national parks (Luangwa and some areas of Kafue), animal sightings are still exciting here.
There are
- a resident herd of elephants of around 80-100,
- a pride of lions
- possibly half a dozen leopard
- a herd of elands
- many impalas, waterbucks and antelopes
- some kudu
- a wide variety of birds – 378 species recorded to date
- and of course lots of crocodiles and hippos!
The island has a feeling of solitude, charm and wild nature that only a wild island can give. Away from the adrenaline-junkie powerboats of the shores of Lake Kariba, this remote island lies largely unknown and virtually unvisited by the tourist world.
Some would define solitude as heaven, but for those who want a little action, activities are another optional ingredient.
- Game drives with an island guide are an obvious must-do experience.
- Bird watching will happen by accident, but an organized session can be arranged.
- While surrounded by water, bird watching and canoeing puts another spin on it.
- Many have said that fishing in the water of the lakes is worth a trip on its own.
- And sunset and sailing cruises will relax your mind and body, whether you want them to or not!
Chete Island offers luxury camping with only 8 Meru style tents. A place where elephants choose to roam idly, where the haunting sound of hippos bellowing across the bay and where the magnificent African sunset amazes the few visitors lucky enough to set foot here.
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