How to Experience Authentic Zambian Culture as a Tourist

Zambia is a country in East Africa. Some of its top attractions include Victoria Falls and wildlife safaris. While the country is known for its natural wonders, it also has a rich culture and heritage. There are over 70 ethnic groups, each having unique traditions, culture and languages. Visiting Zambia is a great way to connect with the authentic traditions of Africa. Here is how to experience the best of its culture:

Join a Traditional Ceremony

Zambia is known for its colourful and symbolic ceremonies which provide an insight into the tribal heritage of the country. One of the most popular of these is the Kuomboka Ceremony of the Lozi people. It is held each year, around the time when the Zambezi River floods. The king, known as Litunga, moves from the flooded palace to higher ground during this time. This is accompanied by a grand procession that features decorated boats, with music and dance.

The Nc’wala Ceremony of the Ngoni is another well-known event which is held to celebrate the first fruits of the harvest. The Mutomboko Ceremony of the Lunda is a great place to watch the warrior dances and historical re-enactments. By attending these festivals, you can learn more about the history and legends of Zambia.

Visit a Village and Stay with Locals

If you want to experience authentic Zambian culture, you need to spend time with the locals. Travel to rural villages, to find out how the natives live. You can see them go through their daily tasks and work. Tourists will also have a chance to experience cultural tours and homestays. This way, you can gain first hand experience. Learn about the natives’ farming practices, family life, customs and traditions.

Popular activities include pounding maize to make nshima (a staple food). You could also help locals tend the fields and end the day by sitting around the fire and sharing stories. While learning about the culture this also helps support local families. Mukuni Village near Livingstone or Kalunda Village near South Luangwa are top places to head to for this purpose.

Explore Zambia’s Arts and Crafts

Zambia is known for its traditional craft industry such as woodcarving, basket weaving, beadwork, and pottery. These are an important part of the livelihoods of the locals. Travellers can visit markets like Kabwata Cultural Village in Lusaka and the Livingstone Arts and Crafts Market. They are great places to find handmade goods and even meet the artisans.

Apart from the crafts, Zambia also has a wonderful music and dance scene. You’ll find everything from traditional drumming to tribal dances, to ceremonies. If you’re looking for modern music, you could watch live performances of kalindula music—a modern genre blending traditional rhythms with guitars.

Taste Zambia’s Local Cuisine

To truly experience the local culture of the country, visitors should also taste local cuisine. The staple food of the Zambians is nshima, a thick maize porridge served with vegetables, beans, fish, or meat. The traditional way to eat it is with your hands.

There are hotels like Avani Victoria Falls Resort where guests can taste a traditional Boma Dinner.

Other dishes you must try include ifisashi (vegetables in groundnut sauce), chikanda (a vegetarian delicacy called “African polony”), and tilapia from Lake Kariba. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are unique snacks like fried caterpillars, a seasonal delicacy that is full of protein. Visitors can also dine with locals, at family homes or in eateries to feel closer to the native culture.

Learn About Zambia’s History and Traditions

To dive deeper into the history and culture of Zambia, pay a visit to its museums and cultural centres. One of the oldest and largest museums in the country is the Livingstone Museum. It has artefacts from pre colonial times, traditional crafts, and traces Dr. David Livingstone’s expedition to Africa. Another must-visit museum is the Moto Moto Museum in Mbala. It focuses on the Bemba culture with a great collection of ethnographic exhibits.

Take Part in Community-Based Tourism

There are several community based tourism projects that offer authentic experiences for tourists. Visitors will be able to go on a safari, and enjoy cultural experiences at locations like South Luangwa National Park. Some activities offered are cooking, craft workshops and storytelling.

Supporting these projects will allow travellers to gain a more wholesome and rich experience. You are also helping to preserve the traditions and livelihoods of the people.