Fothergill Island-a Families Paradise.

A Family’s Five-Day Adventure on Fothergill Island.

Fothergill Island, a family’s paradise, is located on the shores of Lake Kariba and is a true gem on Zimbabwe’s varied landscape!

Whilst we frequently enjoy cruising on a houseboat across Lake Kariba, this time we had the privilege of exploring Fothergill Island, which lies just off Matusadona National Park.

If you are seeking the perfect getaway in Southern Africa, your search ends at Fothergill Island, where the service, cuisine, and varied activities rival those of any luxury lodge. All this spoiling and comfort comes with an exceptional personal experience…

With three teenage children in tow, there were activities available for them all, from dawn to dusk, and they certainly took full advantage of every opportunity.

The introduction of Mackair flights from Harare means that we can now skip the long, challenging drive from the city. This is a refreshing change, as one can now relax on a quick one-hour flight, directly to Fothergill Island!

The Island Suite.

Since we were two families, we had the opportunity to stay in the Island Suite, a small self-contained camp that accommodates six people, in three separate luxury tents, connected by a boardwalk. It includes a dedicated entertainment area, a swimming pool, and a butler service… Each room offers lovely views of the foreshore and lake.

If you are in search of a private Island Suite, nothing else on Lake Kariba can match the serenity, tranquility, and exclusivity of this peaceful accommodation.

Incredible Game drives.

Our guide Moses, along with his vehicle Molly, were ready to accompany us on all game drives. Moses possesses an incredible amount of knowledge about wildlife. During our first afternoon drive, we were treated to breathtaking views of more than one hundred and fifty buffalo, grazing along the lakeshore. Enjoying the buffalo and the sunset, whilst sipping sundowners, marked an unforgettable beginning to our stay. Each teenager had a camera in hand, eagerly trying to capture stunning photos of animals, landscapes, and birds.

One early morning, during a game drive, we encountered a hyena with an impala catch. This is a rare sight, so we took time to follow the hyena, as the sun rose behind us. We also spotted two side-striped jackals moving near the lake’s edge. Elephants and impala were everywhere, as we soaked in each moment of the drive.

The late afternoon sighting of two male lions basking on a sandbank, was truly spectacular, and then the evening was beautifully wrapped up by a sighting of a silver mongoose, something which none of us had ever seen before.

If you prefer not to go on game drives, you can still view herds of impala, kudu, elephants, and warthogs from the Island Suite pool deck, as these animals often visit the waterhole in front of the pool deck.

Gorge Hill Climb.

At dawn, a few members of our group set off by boat, down to the Gorge, where they embarked on a three-hour climb up a mountain, to see the Rupert Fothergill memorial plaque and enjoy breathtaking lake views. The effort is definitely worth it for the scenery, and it is a fantastic way to burn off some teenage energy!

Trip to Kariba Dam Wall.

Fothergill Island offers an extraordinary morning tour of the Kariba Dam wall. As Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake, it is worthwhile taking this tour. We departed early and went swiftly across the lake in a speedboat, just in time to meet the tour bus and guide.

These guides possess extensive knowledge of the history relating to the construction of the dam wall. Strolling along the wall and exploring the historical sites was an engaging experience and gave us a deeper insight into the lake’s history.

Elephant Tracking.

An early morning adventure on foot, led by our knowledgeable guide Moses, was truly unforgettable… We were treated to a large bull elephant tracking experience in the bush, where we also gained more knowledge about the ecosystem. This was an incredible opportunity to get very close to elephants, who even treated us to an impressive mock charge!

The adrenaline rush was exhilarating, and it’s clear that these gentle giants deserve our highest respect. I believe that this experience a must for all nature lovers.

Fishing.

Going fishing on Lake Kariba, in the morning or afternoon, is a favourite family activity of ours. Although the tiger fish were hard to catch, the bream were active, along with the pesky squeaker fish. When the fish weren’t biting, we played charades, which provided plenty of entertainment! – As always, the stunning sunsets over Lake Kariba, provide a truly spectacular end to every fabulous day.

Archery and Pellet Guns.

For an hour, in the early afternoon, teams faced off in some intense Archery and Pellet gun shooting competitions. It’s a fantastic activity for those who prefer not to take an afternoon nap – like teenagers!

Pool time.

There is always pool time in between activities. Sipping cocktails, served on the pool deck, whilst taking a midday swim is very enjoyable. The teenagers also enjoyed evening swims, having returned from all their afternoon activities.

1km Track and Gym.

The enthusiastic teenagers had a great time at Fothergill Gym, and our son opted to run the 1km track around Fothergill camp. He focused on trying to surpass the track record. Although he didn’t quite achieve it, he greatly appreciated the challenge that resulted in him finishing in third place.

Conclusion.

Fothergill Island offers incredible cuisine, that accommodates all dietary needs and preferences. The staff work very diligently and are always keen to help. Each evening the dinner table is set up in a different spot on the Island Suite deck, creating a special atmosphere for very memorable meals.

Thank you, Fothergill Island, for your dedicated hospitality and service.

I highly recommend adding Fothergill Island to your bucket list, as it provides an unforgettable family experience, filled with outstanding outdoor activities and many opportunities for making lasting memories.

Thanks to the teenagers’ photography skills, we came home with some very special photos.

To end…I must address the tragedy that occurred on Lake Kariba while we were at Fothergill Island. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all the families who lost their loved ones on August 11, when a DDF Ferry capsized. May God comfort you all.

“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1