Kasama, Zambia Travel Guide

Discover Kasama: A serene escape in northern Zambia, where natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance come together for an unforgettable adventure.

Nestled in the northern region of Zambia, Kasama serves as a serene getaway for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. This quaint city is the administrative center of the Northern Province and offers an authentic taste of Zambian life away from the bustling tourist hubs. One of the key attractions in Kasama is the breathtaking Chishimba Falls, a trio of stunning waterfalls that provide an excellent spot for nature walks, picnics, and photography. The local Bemba people consider these falls sacred, adding a layer of cultural depth to the natural wonder. For those interested in history, the Kasama Cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s colonial past, with its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Kasama is also known for its vibrant markets where you can find local crafts, fresh produce, and traditional foods. The friendly locals are always eager to share stories and offer a warm welcome. Whether you’re exploring the natural reserves, visiting historical sites, or simply soaking in the local culture, Kasama promises a fulfilling and enriching experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kasama.

Visit Chishimba Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
Carry local currency (Zambian Kwacha) as many markets and smaller shops do not accept credit cards.
Engage with the local Bemba people to learn more about their culture and traditions.
The best time to visit Kasama is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is more predictable.
Try traditional Zambian dishes at local eateries for an authentic culinary experience.

Explore Kasama: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kasama

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Best Attractions

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Chishimba Falls

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chishimba Falls, a stunning natural wonder in Zambia perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

4.4

Mwela Rock Paintings

Discover the ancient Mwela Rock Paintings, a UNESCO site showcasing Zambia's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

4.3

Chishimba falls

Discover the enchanting beauty of Chishimba Falls, a breathtaking waterfall near Kasama, Zambia, surrounded by lush landscapes and rich natural heritage.

4.5

Mwankole Heritage Site

Experience the vibrant culture and rich heritage of the Mwankole people at the Mwankole Heritage Site in Kasama, Zambia, a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

4.0

Best landmarks in Kasama

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Shoprite

Explore Shoprite in Kasama for a remarkable shopping experience filled with diverse products, local flavors, and unbeatable prices.

3.9

Chishimba Falls

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chishimba Falls, a natural gem in Zambia, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

4.4

Sinamu Lodge Ltd

Discover the serene beauty of Kasama at Sinamu Lodge Ltd, a perfect blend of comfort and local charm in Zambia's stunning landscapes.

3.6

Fubest Mall

Discover the heart of Kasama at Fubest Mall, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique crafts.

3.8

Best restaurants in Kasama

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Kasama Grill Restuarant

Discover authentic Zambian cuisine at Kasama Grill Restaurant – where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.

3.4

Hi-Five Bar and Restaurant

Experience authentic Zambian flavors at Hi-Five Bar and Restaurant in Kasama – where great food meets warm hospitality.

3.7

Gracewood Court Guesthouse

Experience Zambian hospitality at its best with cozy accommodations and local flavors at Gracewood Court Guesthouse in Kasama.

3.9

Scarlett

Discover authentic Zambian flavors at Scarlett in Kasama—where every meal tells a story.

3.0

Best bars in Kasama

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Hi-Five Bar and Restaurant

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Hi-Five Bar and Restaurant in Kasama, where grilled delicacies and local flavors create an unforgettable dining experience.

3.7

The Velvet Vault Pub n' Grill

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Velvet Vault Pub n' Grill in Kasama, a perfect spot for drinks, food, and great company.

4.6

Divas Night Club

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Divas Night Club in Kasama, where music, dance, and great company await you!

3.2

Legacy night club

Discover the heart of Kasama's nightlife at Legacy Night Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.

3.8

Best nightclubs in Kasama

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One Roma Night Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kasama at One Roma Night Club, where unforgettable dance moments and lively socializing await you.

3.6

Divas Night Club

Dive into the energetic nightlife of Kasama at Divas Night Club, where music, dance, and vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.

3.2

Legacy night club

Dance the night away at Legacy Night Club in Kasama, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nightlife experiences.

3.8

Lions Club

Discover the lively atmosphere of Lions Club in Kasama, where refreshing drinks and local culture meet for an unforgettable night out.

3.3

Best shops in Kasama

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Shoprite

Shoprite in Kasama: A vibrant department store offering a wide range of quality products and a delightful shopping experience for tourists and locals.

3.9

Fubest Mall

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Fubest Mall in Kasama, offering a mix of local and international products for every traveler.

3.8

PEP Stores

Discover affordable fashion and local styles at PEP Stores in Kasama, where quality meets value for every traveler.

3.7

Katos

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Katos in Kasama, where local culture meets modern retail in a welcoming atmosphere.

3.4

Explore Kasama on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kasama, mapped for you.

Kasama Essentials

Kasama is located in the Northern Province of Zambia. The nearest international airport is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, approximately 850 kilometers away. From Lusaka, you can either take a domestic flight to Kasama Airport or travel by road. The road journey can take around 10 to 12 hours by bus or car. There are also trains operated by Zambia Railways from Lusaka to Kasama, offering a scenic but longer journey.
Kasama is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Buses and minibuses (known locally as 'matatus') operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Kasama, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Lusaka before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.
Kasama is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Kasama doesn’t have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kasama. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always show respect when visiting churches and traditional sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile and a 'Muli bwanji?' (How are you?) can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Kasama like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Zambian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Chishimba Falls, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the area. For a unique experience, visit the Kasama Cathedral, a historic site with stunning architecture.

When is the best time to visit Kasama?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kasama

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kasama. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMwaiseni
  [Mwai-se-ni]
- GoodbyeSalamuka
  [Sa-la-mu-ka]
- YesEe
  [Ee]
- NoAwe
  [A-we]
- Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [Ta-fa-dha-li]
- Thank youTwalumba
  [Twa-lum-ba]
- Excuse me/SorryPeza
  [Pe-za]
- How are you?Muli shani?
  [Mu-li sha-ni]
- Fine. And you?Napangwa. Iwe?
  [Na-pang-wa. I-we]
- Do you speak English?Mwandikonda cinyanja?
  [Mwan-di-kon-da ci-nyan-ja]
- I don't understandSindikumvetsera
  [Sin-di-kum-vet-se-ra]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNdikufuna kuyaona menu, chonde
  [Ndi-ku-fu-na ku-ya-o-na me-nu, cho-nde]
- I don't eat meatSindidya nyama
  [Sin-di-dya nya-ma]
- Cheers!Tukonkone!
  [Tu-kon-ko-ne]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNdikufuna kulipira, chonde
  [Ndi-ku-fu-na ku-li-pi-ra, cho-nde]
- Help!Chitani!
  [Chi-ta-ni]
- Go away!Pita!
  [Pi-ta]
- Call the Police!Pangani pulis!
  [Pan-ga-ni pu-lis]
- Call a doctor!Pangani daktala!
  [Pan-ga-ni dak-ta-la]
- I'm lostNili pansi
  [Ni-li pan-si]
- I'm illNili wogwilira
  [Ni-li wo-gwi-li-ra]
- I'd like to buy...Ndikufuna kudzala...
  [Ndi-ku-fu-na ku-dza-la]
- I'm just lookingNdili kuoneka
  [Ndi-li ku-o-ne-ka]
- How much is it?Nthawi zina kuti?
  [Ntha-wi zi-na ku-ti]
- That's too expensiveIvi ndiye wachuluka kwambiri
  [I-vi ndye wa-chu-lu-ka kwan-bi-ri]
- Can you lower the price?Mukhoza kupanga chithunzi?
  [Mu-kho-za ku-pan-ga chi-thun-zi]
- What time is it?Nthawi yake ndiyani?
  [Ntha-wi ya-ke ndi-ya-ni]
- It's one o'clockYaiti nthawi yomwe
  [Ya-i-ti ntha-wi yom-we]
- Half past (10)Nthawi ndi nthawi yodwala
  [Ntha-wi ndi ntha-wi yo-dwa-la]
- MorningUsiku
  [U-si-ku]
- AfternoonMawa
  [Ma-wa]
- EveningMawa
  [Ma-wa]
- YesterdayNakale
  [Na-ka-le]
- TodayLero
  [Le-ro]
- TomorrowMawa
  [Ma-wa]
- 1Moja
  [Mo-ja]
- 2Zawiri
  [Za-wi-ri]
- 3Zatatu
  [Za-ta-tu]
- 4Zane
  [Za-ne]
- 5Zachinayi
  [Za-chi-na-yi]
- 6Zachisanu
  [Za-chi-sa-nu]
- 7Zachitatu
  [Za-chi-ta-tu]
- 8Zachinayi nane
  [Za-chi-na-yi na-ne]
- 9Zachinayi kumi
  [Za-chi-na-yi ku-mi]
- 10Kumi
  [Ku-mi]
- Where's a/the...?Ndiyani pakuti...?
  [Ndi-ya-ni pa-ku-ti]
- What's the address?Adilesi yomwe ndiyani?
  [A-di-le-si yo-mwe ndi-ya-ni]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Mukhoza kundipanga (pamapu)?
  [Mu-kho-za kun-di-pan-ga (pa-mapu)]
- When's the next (bus)?Nthawi yomwe yatayika (bus)?
  [Ntha-wi yo-mwe ya-ta-yi-ka (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Chithunzi (kuti ....)
  [Chi-thun-zi (ku-ti)]

History of Kasama

Before the advent of colonial rule, Kasama was primarily inhabited by the Bemba people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Zambia. The Bemba established their kingdom in the region, and their influence can still be felt today in the local customs, language, and traditions. They engaged in farming, hunting, and ironworking, and had a well-organized social structure with chiefs and councils.
In the late 19th century, European missionaries began arriving in the Kasama area. The White Fathers, a Catholic missionary group, were among the first to establish a mission in 1895. They played a significant role in the spread of Christianity and Western education in the region. The influence of these missionaries is evident in the numerous churches and schools that dot the landscape of Kasama.
Kasama became a focal point during the colonial era when the British South Africa Company administered Northern Rhodesia, now Zambia. In 1898, Kasama was designated as the administrative capital of the North-Eastern Rhodesia territory. The town's strategic importance grew as it became a center for colonial governance and trade. This period saw the construction of infrastructure such as roads and administrative buildings, shaping the town's modern layout.
Kasama played a pivotal role in Zambia's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. The town was a hotbed of political activity, with many local leaders participating in the nationalist movement. Notably, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe, a prominent figure in Zambia's independence struggle and the country's first Vice President, hailed from the Kasama region. His legacy is commemorated in various landmarks and institutions in the town.
Following Zambia's independence in 1964, Kasama continued to develop as an important regional center. The town saw investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The establishment of the Kasama General Hospital and various educational institutions marked significant milestones in the town's growth. Kasama also became a hub for agricultural activities, with the surrounding areas producing crops such as maize, beans, and cassava.
Kasama is rich in cultural heritage, with the Bemba people maintaining many of their traditional practices. The Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena ceremony is one of the most significant cultural festivals celebrated in Kasama. This annual event, held in August, commemorates the migration and settlement of the Bemba people in the region. The festival features traditional dances, music, and rituals, offering visitors a vibrant and immersive experience of Bemba culture.
Kasama is not only significant for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its natural attractions. The Chishimba Falls, located approximately 33 kilometers from Kasama town, is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Zambia. The falls are a sacred site for the Bemba people, who believe in the presence of spirits in the area. Visitors can explore the lush surroundings, enjoy the scenic beauty, and learn about the local myths and legends associated with the falls.