FAQs

Music and dancing are a vital aspect of Zambian life. They are utilized in rituals, festivals and storytelling. As a guest, you may enjoy traditional performances in numerous venues around the nation.

In Zambia, greetings are more than polite exchanges - they reflect respect, connection, and social harmony. Knowing how to greet properly helps build positive relationships in both urban and rural communities. Greetings in daily life Zambians are kind and welcoming. A frequent approach to welcome someone is with a handshake. In certain tribes, males may grasp hands while gently bending their head. Women may kneel or curtsy slightly when greeting elders. These actions show humility and respect. English greetings can be “Hello”, “How are you?” or “Good morning”. Many people are often interested in your health and your family. Even short conversations start with these greetings. It’s polite to return the same question. Avoid rushing through greetings. Take your time. Notes: In some communities and among certain ethnic groups, women may kneel or curtsy slightly when greeting elders, especially in rural settings. This custom is not universal across all of Zambia, but it is widely respected where practiced. Common greetings in local languages: “Muli shani?” – “How are you?” (Bemba) “Bwanji?” – “How are you?” (Nyanja) “Shani?” – informal version of “Hi” (Nyanja/Bemba) “Mwabonwa” – “Good day” (Lozi) Notes:  “Shani?” is an informal greeting used mostly among peers or younger people. Avoid using it when addressing elders or in formal situations. English is the official language of Zambia, so greetings like “Good morning” and “How are you?” are commonly used, especially in urban areas, schools, and workplaces. Respect for elders Zambian culture values elders greatly. Whenever you enter, greet the older people in the room first. Call someone “Uncle”, “Auntie” or “Sir” if you do not know what to address them as. While giving something to an elder, always use both hands. Respect in rural areas In villages, traditional customs are stronger. People sometimes kneel when meeting older women as a sign of respect. It’s not expected for visitors to follow each gesture, but being polite and making an effort is valued. Smiling and using respectful language goes a long way. What to avoid Do not interrupt someone who is speaking, especially an elder. Avoid using strong or sharp gestures when talking. Do not call someone by their first name alone, except if they tell you it’s okay. Do not use a raised or angry tone when talking. Conclusion: Greet people in Zambian culture In Zambia, respect is shown by greeting someone in a friendly way. When you greet people in a friendly way, they usually respond in the same way. It may seem small, but it helps you a lot and introduces you to the local way of life.

Zambia’s museums offer visitors a chance to explore the country’s diverse tribal traditions. Its museums are important for preserving and disseminating the traditions of its various ethnic groups. A display, artifacts and stories will have visitors walking away with knowledge of the past and the present. There are a handful of must-see museums while visiting. Livingstone Museum It is one of the oldest and biggest museums in Zambia. It's in Livingstone, close to Victoria Falls. Its exhibitions are divided into several sections, such as archaeology, history and ethnography. You’ll be able to gaze at ancient human tools, traditional apparel, musical instruments and crafts. One section is dedicated to Dr. David Livingstone, with letters and maps from his explorations. The Lusaka national museum In the capital city, Lusaka National Museum focuses on both history and modern culture. The ground floor displays art by contemporary Zambian artists. The upper floor has historical items, including traditional weapons, masks and models of village life. It’s a great place to learn how the country has changed over time. The Moto Moto museum This museum is in Mbala, in northern Zambia. It is named after a Catholic missionary who collected many local items. The Moto Moto Museum primarily focuses on the Bemba culture but also features broader ethnographic collections from other northern Zambian ethnic groups, along with prehistoric artifacts and colonial-era displays. You will see items such as musical instruments, carvings and tools used in daily life. It’s far from the main tourist areas but very rich in culture. Choma museum and crafts centre Located in southern Zambia, this museum focuses on the Tonga people. It showcases their customs, history and crafts. The museum also supports local artists by selling baskets, carvings and fabrics made by Tonga artisans. Additional museums to explore Railway Museum (Livingstone) – A museum dedicated to Zambia’s colonial-era railway history, showcasing vintage locomotives and the development of transportation. Lechwe Trust Art Gallery (Kitwe) – Although not a traditional museum, this gallery plays a key role in preserving and promoting contemporary Zambian art. It features exhibitions by both established and emerging local artists. Ngoma Cultural Museum (Mfuwe) – A small cultural museum located near South Luangwa National Park. It offers insights into local traditions, wildlife and environmental heritage, providing added context for eco-tourists in the region. Travel tips for Museum visitors Most major museums are open from 9 AM to 5 PM, though operating hours may vary in rural areas. Entry fees typically range from 20 to 100 ZMW (approximately $1 to $5 USD). Photography may be restricted in some areas, ask before shooting. In smaller or regional museums, English signage may be limited and guided tours may not always be available. Bringing a translation app or hiring a local guide can enhance your experience. Conclusion: Museums in Zambia Museums in Zambia offer a window into the country’s soul. Each one tells a different story. Whether you visit Lusaka, Livingstone or smaller towns, you’ll come away with a deeper respect for Zambia’s culture and people.

Yes, food is a big part of Zambian life. Tourists who want to learn more about the culture can join cooking classes or eat traditional meals with local families. These experiences are both fun and educational. They offer a deeper connection to the local way of life.

Zambia provides a vast selection of traditional gifts. These goods are frequently handcrafted and represent the country’s culture, nature and history. When visiting, you’ll discover several alternatives to pick from. Each one offers a narrative and helps you recall your journey.

Shopping for souvenirs in Zambia is a rewarding experience. It lets you help local artists and carry something significant home. Lusaka and Livingstone are the ideal cities for this. Both have vibrant marketplaces and cultural hubs loaded with handcrafted goods that capture the unique customs of the nation.

Zambian beliefs are founded on spirituality, the respect of ancestors and nature. Zambia has currently been largely Christian because of the historical missionary activities, but the Zambians cling on and practice the indigenous beliefs, especially in the rural population. Such beliefs are usually handed down orally from one generation to the next and observed in conjunction with modern religions.

Zambia is home to more than 70 distinct ethnic groups, each with unique languages, customs, dances, and spiritual beliefs. This variety is proudly demonstrated in traditional cultural celebrations which are celebrated throughout the year. These events not only preserve traditional heritage but also foster intergenerational knowledge and cultural pride.

A traditional Zambian breakfast meal is robust, uncomplicated and usually made from locally grown produce. The meals that most Zambians start their day with are the meals that are traditional to the country, and based on the country’s agricultural realities even though Western style breakfasts are available in urban areas and in hotels. Such meals are sufficient to eat and help provide energy for daily work, especially for rural communities.

When it comes to experiencing untamed African beauty, few places can rival Zambia - and at the heart of its wild charm lies Kafue National Park. As the oldest and largest national park in the country, Kafue offers a rare blend of raw wilderness, ecological diversity, and serene solitude. Stretching across three provinces, this park is a hidden treasure for safari lovers, nature photographers, and anyone seeking an authentic encounter with Africa's natural splendor.