Fothergill Island in Kariba, Lake Kariba: Tickets, Hours and Family Guide
Animals and wildlife in Kariba, Lake Kariba
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Fothergill is a proper family safari camp with genuine activities for children. The mini ranger course keeps younger guests engaged, and the boat safaris and fishing are excellent. Expect a remote, unfenced camp with wildlife passing through and a strong conservation focus.
What is Fothergill Island?
Fothergill Island is a relaxed safari camp on the shores of Lake Kariba inside Matusadona National Park. It has two family suites, a swimming pool, and a wide range of activities: 4x4 game drives, walking safaris, boat safaris, fishing for tigerfish and tilapia, and a mini ranger course for younger guests that includes archery, swimming, fishing, and stargazing. The camp is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so children must be supervised, but it is a genuine family-friendly safari experience.
Supports conservation in Matusadona National Park.
Fothergill Island ticket prices 2026
| Visitor type | Adult | Child (All ages) | Yes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard rate | ZWG 500 | ZWG 250 | Free |
From approx. US$500 per person per night. Child rates may apply. Includes accommodation, meals, and activities.
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💡 Money-saving tips for families
- Book early Family suites are limited.
- Mini ranger Confirm ages and activities on booking.
- Book early Family suites limited.
- Supervise Unfenced camp.
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 years | Good | Family suites and supervised activities. |
| 3–5 years | Excellent | Mini ranger course. |
| 6–9 years | Very good | Fishing and game drives. |
| 10–12 years | Excellent | Full activity menu. |
| 13+ years | Good | Safari and fishing. |
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Key details
- Address
- Fothergill Island, Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe, Lake Kariba
- Opening hours
- Reception 24 hours; activities from 06:00
- How long to plan
- Overnight stay
- Suitable ages
- All ages (supervised)
- Setting
- Safari camp on lake
- Booking
- Required; book well ahead
- Payment accepted
- Card, cash
What to expect when you visit
Game drives, boat safaris, fishing, mini ranger course
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Is the camp safe for children?
The camp is unfenced and wildlife passes through. Children must be supervised at all times, and guests are escorted after dark.
Is there a kids’ programme?
Yes, the mini ranger course includes archery, swimming, fishing, and stargazing.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Toddler suitability
- Yes
- Minimum age
- 0
- Facilities
- Family suites
- pool
- restaurant
- Access and parking
- Boat or air access
- Safety notes
Unfenced wildlife area; supervise children
Tickets and costs
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Mini ranger course, fishing, stargazing
Plan your visit
- Best time to visit
- Dry season (June–October)
- Busiest times
- School holidays
- How to get there
Boat transfer from Kariba; camp arranges.
- By car
- Yes, boat or air access
- Uber / Bolt estimate
- Not practical
- Public transport
Not practical
- Combine with
- Matusadona game drives — Big Five safari
- Lake Kariba houseboat — water safari
- What to bring
- Neutral clothing
- Sun hat
- Binoculars
- Insect repellent
- Camera
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
45 minutes from Kariba.
Cool off.
Supervise children.
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Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to visit Fothergill Island?
- Adults pay ZWG 500 and children (ages All ages) pay ZWG 250. Children yes enter free. From approx. US$500 per person per night. Child rates may apply. Includes accommodation, meals, and activities.
- What are the Fothergill Island opening hours?
- Reception 24 hours; activities from 06:00. Busiest: School holidays.
- Is Fothergill Island suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Minimum age: 0. Unfenced wildlife area; supervise children
- How long do you need at Fothergill Island?
- Plan for Overnight stay.
- What payment methods does Fothergill Island accept?
- Fothergill Island accepts Card, cash. It does not accept cash.
- Is Fothergill Island accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Boat or air access.
- What is the best time to visit Fothergill Island?
- Dry season (June–October). It is busiest School holidays.
- How do you get to Fothergill Island?
- Yes, boat or air access. Ride-hailing: Not practical. Public transport: Not practical Boat transfer from Kariba; camp arranges.
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