Zambia's
"Coast"
By: Kathy G Mills Photos: Ndole Bay Lodge
Z
ambia is a land-locked country nestled in the very heart of southern Africa. Reaching the sea from within its boundaries is a journey that encompasses thousands of kilometers—whether going to the Atlantic Ocean on the western shores or traveling east to the Indian Ocean. How is it, then, that Zambia boasts a stretch of shoreline that includes pristine beaches comparable to any tropical paradise? The answer is found in the northern province, where Zambia lays claim to 7% of Lake Tanganyika. If that percentage seems small, consider the fact that Tanganyika is the longest freshwater lake in the world, measuring 660 kilometers from north to south and 72 kilometers across. With an average depth of 570 meters, it provides 18% of the world’s fresh water. The lake is shared by four countries. Tanzania and the DRC surround the eastern and western shores, occupying 86% of it between them. Burundi and Zambia cap the northern and southern ends, respectively. Because of its unique ability to
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TRAVEL & LEISURE ZAMBIA
join four distant and diverse countries, Lake Tanganyika is often called the meeting place of Africa where north, south, east and west come together. Although scientific opinions vary, the lake is estimated to be between nine and 15 million years old. True biodiversity is represented with 2,000 animal and plant species, 600 of which are endemic. Varieties of species normally associated with marine life, such as crabs, shrimp, jellyfish and eels share the prehistoric waters with creatures both exotic and enigmatic. A fully aquatic snake known as Storm’s Water Cobra glides through the lake hunting for fish, a staple of its diet. A Goliath Tiger Fish threatens its prey by circling closer and closer, eventually tearing into it with 32 razor-sharp teeth. Living up to its name, this fish can grow up to five feet in length and often weighs in at over a hundred pounds. Locals say it’s the only fish that isn’t afraid of crocodiles.
With warm temperatures and an amazing display of colorful sea life, Lake Tanganyika is the only destination in Zambia where visitors can go snorkeling and scuba diving. Other popular lake activities include sailing, kite surfing, and water skiing.
