Things To Do
in Zambezi

Zambezi, Zambia is a small town located near the banks of the Zambezi River, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It serves as a gateway to many outdoor adventures, including fishing, game viewing, and river safaris. The town is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers breathtaking views of the river, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

With a blend of traditional Zambian culture and modern conveniences, Zambezi welcomes visitors to explore its beauty and hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Zambezi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Zambezi River for a scenic boat cruise, enjoying views of the wildlife and stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and shop for traditional crafts and fresh produce.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can try traditional Zambian dishes while enjoying live music.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Take an early morning fishing trip on the Zambezi River, known for its bountiful fish species.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby national park for an afternoon of game viewing, where you can spot elephants, hippos, and various bird species.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset walk along the riverbank, followed by a relaxing dinner at a riverside café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
🏨Mid-range hotel night$50-$100
🚌Local transport fare$1-$2
🛒Groceries for a week$30-$50
🍺Local beer$1-$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.
  • Rich cultural heritage and warm local hospitality.
  • Affordable costs for meals and accommodations.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Inconsistent infrastructure and services.
  • Potential for mosquito-borne diseases during wet season.
  • "Mulibwanji" - Hello
  • "Natotela" - Thank you
  • "Ndi bwino" - I am fine
  • "Eya" - Yes
  • "Ayi" - No

Places to Visit in Zambezi

Visit one of these nice places.

Zambezi River Banks

Capture stunning sunset views over the river, with reflections of the vibrant sky.

Local Market

A vibrant setting filled with colors, sounds, and expressions of local culture, perfect for street photography.

Nearby National Park

A wildlife haven where you can photograph majestic animals in their natural habitat.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zambezi

Zambezi offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Zambian cuisine and international flavors. Visitors should not miss trying local dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural produce.

Zambezi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nsima

A staple food made from ground maize, often served with vegetables and meat.

Must-Try!

Chikanda

Also known as African polony, it is made from ground tubers and is often enjoyed as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zambezi Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, traditional snacks, and handcrafted goods.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors offer quick bites like grilled meats and fried dough snacks, perfect for a casual meal on the go.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zambezi experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season (November to March) brings high humidity and rainfall, while the dry season (April to October) features sunny days and cooler nights. Temperatures can range from 15°C (59°F) in the cooler months to 35°C (95°F) in the hottest months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm greeting is important; a handshake is common, often accompanied by a smile.

Respect for Tradition

Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites or cultural events.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting local homes or religious places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zambezi is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take common precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables secure, and being vigilant in crowded areas. It's also wise to stay informed about local wildlife safety if venturing into nature.

Tipping in Zambezi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in restaurants and for guides, usually around 10-15% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Wet Season (November to March)

Expect heavy rains and higher humidity; however, this is also when the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Dry Season (April to October)

A popular season for tourists, with clear skies and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Cool Season (June to August)

Temperatures drop, making it pleasant for outdoor activities; pack layers for cooler evenings.

Transition Months (September and October)

Hot and dry weather precedes the rains, making wildlife congregate near water sources.

Nightlife Guide

Zambezi at Night

Zambezi has a relaxed nightlife scene with local bars and lodges offering live music, dance, and cultural performances. Most venues close by midnight, making it ideal for an early evening out. Local beers and traditional drinks are popular, and the atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming.

Hiking in Zambezi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Victoria Falls Trail

A scenic hike that offers breathtaking views of the iconic Victoria Falls, a short drive from Zambezi.

Kafue National Park Trails

Various trails within Kafue National Park provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation in a stunning natural setting.

Airports

How to reach Zambezi by plane.

Kariba Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Zambezi, this airport offers limited domestic flights and serves as a convenient access point for visitors heading to the Zambezi region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zambezi is relatively walkable, with most attractions and local markets within a short distance. However, sidewalks may not be well-maintained, so caution is advised when walking near traffic. The town’s layout is simple, making it easy for visitors to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bantu Ethnic Groups

The majority of the population belongs to several Bantu ethnic groups, each with unique cultural traditions and languages.

European Expatriates

A small but growing community of European expatriates live in Zambezi, often involved in tourism and conservation efforts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Zambia, with local teams and leagues actively engaging the community.

Rugby

Rugby has a growing following, with clubs and schools promoting the sport throughout the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zambezi is generally light, with most locals using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation consists of minibus taxis that are affordable and connect various parts of the town, though they can be crowded at peak times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zambezi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted to suit vegetarian diets, especially those based on vegetables and grains.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional dishes typically use maize, gluten-free options may be available at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Zambezi are basic, with a small clinic available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, travelers may need to visit larger hospitals in nearby cities. It's advisable to have travel insurance and be prepared with necessary medications.

Discover Zambia

Read more in our Zambia 2025 Travel Guide.

Zambia Travel Guide