from JEFFREY MANTAMBA in Binga, Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Bureau
BINGA, (CAJ News) – NESTLED on the shores of Lake Kariba in Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, Binga is fast emerging as one of Zimbabwe’s best-kept tourism secrets.
While often overshadowed by Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, Binga offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and authentic experiences that make it a must-visit destination for intrepid travellers seeking something off the beaten path.
Tourists visiting Binga are immediately captivated by the breathtaking vistas of Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.
The lake is ideal for fishing, boating, and sunset cruises, where visitors can watch the waters glow in hues of orange and gold.
For the adventurous, mountain trails and forested hills surrounding Binga provide opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
The area is home to rare bird species, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and cormorants, making it a paradise for ornithologists.
History and culture enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Binga Cultural Village, where local Tonga people showcase traditional dances, music, and crafts.
Tourists can learn about the Tonga’s centuries-old fishing and farming techniques, explore reed mat-making, and witness storytelling sessions that bring local legends to life.
The vibrant Nkayi Falls and Chimanimani-style cliffs also offer visitors a glimpse of natural wonders that remain largely undocumented, giving the adventurous traveller a sense of discovery.
When it comes to cuisine, Binga offers a taste of authentic Matabeleland North flavours.
Visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish from Lake Kariba, particularly kapenta and bream, traditionally cooked with local herbs and vegetables.
Street vendors and local eateries serve sadza (maize meal) with peanut butter relish, wild mushrooms, and fresh greens.
For drinks, tourists can savour mutandabota beer, locally brewed by the Tonga, as well as homemade fruit juices and herbal infusions that refresh after a day of sightseeing.
Entertainment in Binga is as lively as its landscapes.
Local communities host traditional music nights, where drumming, marimba performances, and choral singing bring the culture alive.
Tourists can join in traditional dance workshops participate in fishing competitions, or experience storytelling and folklore evenings around the campfire on Lake Kariba’s banks.
Seasonal festivals, such as the Tonga cultural celebrations, provide an immersive experience that highlights the richness of Binga’s heritage.
Binga’s hospitality is warm and authentic.
Small lodges, family-run guesthouses, and lakeside cottages offer visitors comfortable stays while keeping them close to the region’s natural and cultural attractions.
Community-based tourism ensures that every visit supports the local economy, creating jobs in guiding, hospitality, and artisanal crafts.
In short, Binga is more than a destination — it’s an experience.
Its unspoiled nature, rich Tonga culture, delectable cuisine, and serene lakeside setting combine to create a tourism package that keeps visitors coming back.
For travellers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and tranquility, Binga in Matabeleland North promises memories that linger long after the journey ends.
– CAJ News