Southern Province, Zambia Travel Guide
Explore Southern Province, Zambia: Home to Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba, and rich cultural experiences, offering unforgettable adventures and serene landscapes.
Southern Province in Zambia offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This region is home to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The thunderous roar and misty spray of the falls create a magical atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Nearby, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park provides a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can see elephants, zebras, and rhinos in their natural habitat. The province also boasts the serene Lake Kariba, the world's largest man-made lake by volume. Its tranquil waters and beautiful islands offer perfect spots for fishing, boating, and bird-watching. For those interested in history and culture, the Livingstone Museum provides fascinating insights into Zambia's past and the life of the famous explorer, Dr. David Livingstone. Moreover, Southern Province's vibrant local markets and traditional crafts provide a unique opportunity to experience Zambian culture firsthand. The friendliness and warmth of the local people make every visit memorable, creating a sense of connection and belonging that stays with you long after you've left.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Southern Province.
- Visit Victoria Falls during the rainy season (February to May) for the most spectacular views.
- Carry a waterproof jacket when visiting the falls due to the heavy mist.
- Book safaris in advance to secure spots in popular parks like Mosi-oa-Tunya.
- Try local delicacies at the markets, such as nshima and chibwantu.
- Respect local customs and traditions when visiting villages.
Top City Travel Guides in Southern Province
The cities of Southern Province, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in Southern Province
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Southern Province: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Southern Province
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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All Attractions
Munda Wanga Environmental Park
Explore Munda Wanga Environmental Park: A Wildlife Sanctuary and Educational Hub in Chilanga, Zambia, Perfect for Nature Enthusiasts and Families.
Lake Bangweulu
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lake Bangweulu, Zambia's pristine freshwater paradise, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Parays Animal Sanctuary
Explore the enchanting Parays Animal Sanctuary in Lusaka, Zambia, where wildlife, nature trails, and family fun come together in a harmonious adventure.
Palms Play Park
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Palms Play Park in Chilanga, a perfect spot for relaxation and family fun amidst nature.
Best landmarks in Southern Province
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
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All Landmarks
Victoria Falls
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, where adventure meets natural wonder on the Zambezi River.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife meet the majestic Victoria Falls in Zambia.
Livingstone Museum
Discover the historical treasures of Zambia at Livingstone Museum, a cultural gem showcasing the legacy of David Livingstone and the nation's rich heritage.
Munda Wanga Environmental Park
Explore the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Munda Wanga Environmental Park, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families visiting Zambia.
Best restaurants in Southern Province
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
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All Restaurants
Marlin Restaurant
Experience exceptional steak dining at Marlin Restaurant in Lusaka - where quality meets flavor in every bite.
Turn n' Tender Steakhouse
Discover culinary excellence at Turn n' Tender Steakhouse - where succulent steaks meet unforgettable dining experiences in Lusaka.
Lilayi Lodge
Discover tranquility and luxury at Lilayi Lodge - your gateway to Zambian wildlife and exquisite dining experiences.
#social Rhodespark
#social Rhodespark: A Culinary Haven in Lusaka Offering Diverse Menus and Lively Ambiance Perfect for Families and Friends.
Best bars in Southern Province
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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All Bars
Chicago's Reloaded
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago's Reloaded in Lusaka, where grilled delights meet a welcoming atmosphere for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Harry's Grill Restaurant ,Bar and pool
Discover a culinary gem in Lilayi at Harry's Grill Restaurant, where exquisite dining meets a relaxing atmosphere by the pool.
Keg & Fig Tree Waterfalls
Discover Keg & Fig Tree Waterfalls in Lusaka: where exquisite grill cuisine meets vibrant live music and sports in a beautiful setting.
#social Rhodespark
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Lusaka at #social Rhodespark, where diverse flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
Best nightclubs in Southern Province
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
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All Nightclubs
B Club
Discover the lively nightlife at B Club, Lusaka's premier disco club, where music, dance, and culture come together for an unforgettable experience.
Ravens Club
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kitwe at Ravens Club, where music, dance, and camaraderie come alive in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Comfort Zone Lounge
Discover the lively nightlife of Lusaka at Comfort Zone Lounge, a vibrant disco club where music, dancing, and camaraderie come together.
Edgar's Night Club
Explore Lusaka's vibrant nightlife at Edgar's Night Club, a premier disco club for unforgettable music, dancing, and local culture.
Best shops in Southern Province
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
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All Shops
EastPark Mall
Experience the ultimate shopping, dining, and entertainment destination at EastPark Mall, Lusaka's vibrant retail hub.
Levy Junction Shopping Mall
Explore a vibrant shopping experience at Levy Junction Mall in Lusaka, featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and entertaining activities.
Manda Hill Shopping Mall
Discover Lusaka's shopping gem at Manda Hill Shopping Mall, where retail, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.
Arcades Shopping Mall
Discover the charm of Lusaka at Arcades Shopping Mall, your one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Explore Southern Province on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Southern Province, mapped for you.
Southern Province Essentials
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Southern Province is accessible through various modes of transportation. The primary entry point for international travelers is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka. From Lusaka, you can take a domestic flight to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, the gateway to Southern Province. Alternatively, you can travel by road from Lusaka to Livingstone, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. The T1 (Great North Road) is the main route connecting Lusaka to Livingstone.
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Within Southern Province, you have several transportation options. Buses and minibuses (locally known as 'matatus') operate between major towns like Livingstone, Choma, and Mazabuka. Taxis are available in urban centers and can be hired for the day. Car rentals are also an option, but ensure you have proper insurance and are familiar with local driving conditions. For short distances, bicycles and motorbike taxis are commonly used.
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The official currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, major restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in larger towns like Livingstone and Choma, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before venturing into more remote areas. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and some hotels.
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Southern Province is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places like markets and bus stations. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include the vicinity around bus stations and some parts of Livingstone's town center. Always be vigilant and keep your belongings secure.
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In case of an emergency, dial 991 for police and 992 for medical emergencies. Major hospitals are located in Livingstone and Choma. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in most towns. The US Embassy in Lusaka can provide assistance to American citizens in distress.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a religious site. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport can be crowded and schedules may not be strict. Don’t argue with drivers or conductors. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. A slight nod or bow is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Southern Province like a local, visit the vibrant markets in Livingstone and Choma where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. For a unique experience, take a boat cruise on the Zambezi River or visit a local village to learn about traditional lifestyles.
When is the best time to visit Southern Province?
Useful Local Phrases for Southern Province
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
Here are the phrases I use most often in Southern Province. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloShani
[sha-nee] - GoodbyeTwalumba
[twa-lum-ba] - YesEya
[eh-yah] - NoAwe
[ah-weh] - Please/You're welcomeNdakuwamya
[ndah-koo-wah-mya] - Thank youNatotela
[nah-toh-teh-lah] - Excuse me/SorryNisungile
[nee-soon-gee-leh] - How are you?Muli bwanji?
[moo-lee bwan-jee] - Fine. And you?Ndine bwino. Iwe wanga?
[n-dee-neh bwee-noh. ee-weh wan-gah] - Do you speak English?Ulibe na chingerezi?
[oo-lee-beh nah cheen-geh-reh-zee] - I don't understandSikuwona
[see-koo-won-ah]
- HelloShani
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNshakufwaya ukubona menu, ndakuwamya
[n-shah-koo-fwah-yah oo-koo-boh-nah meh-noo, ndah-koo-wah-mya] - I don't eat meatSikudya nyama
[see-koo-dyah nyah-mah] - Cheers!Nshakukumbatya!
[n-shah-koo-kum-ba-tyah!] - I would like to pay, pleaseNshakufwaya ukukabay, ndakuwamya
[n-shah-koo-fwah-yah oo-koo-kah-bah-y, ndah-koo-wah-mya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNshakufwaya ukubona menu, ndakuwamya
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- Help!Tiwemwena!
[tee-weh-mweh-nah!] - Go away!Tepanga!
[teh-pah-ngah!] - Call the Police!Nifika ku Police!
[nee-fee-kah koo poh-lees!] - Call a doctor!Nifika kwa doctor!
[nee-fee-kah kwa dok-tah!] - I'm lostNdi walilika
[n-dee wah-lee-lee-kah] - I'm illNdi na chibanda
[n-dee nah chee-bahn-dah]
- Help!Tiwemwena!
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- I'd like to buy...Nshakufwaya ukuthenga...
[n-shah-koo-fwah-yah oo-koo-then-gah...] - I'm just lookingNdi kuwona chabe
[n-dee koo-won-ah chah-beh] - How much is it?Chaka chani?
[chah-kah chah-nee] - That's too expensiveIcho chikalamba
[ee-cho chee-kah-lahm-bah] - Can you lower the price?Unga pangisha price?
[oon-gah pan-gee-shah price]
- I'd like to buy...Nshakufwaya ukuthenga...
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- What time is it?Nshani ya nsiku?
[n-shah-nee yah n-see-koo?] - It's one o'clockNdi saana imwe
[n-dee sah-nah eem-weh] - Half past (10)Ndi faasi (10)
[n-dee fah-see (10)] - MorningMuli
[moo-lee] - AfternoonPasheni
[pah-sheh-nee] - EveningNshikala
[n-shee-kah-lah] - YesterdayKale
[kah-leh] - TodayLelo
[leh-loh] - TomorrowKumuka
[koo-moo-kah] - 1Chimo
[chee-mo] - 2Mbili
[m-bee-lee] - 3Tatatu
[tah-tah-too] - 4Nne
[n-neh] - 5Tano
[tah-noh] - 6Tatu
[tah-too] - 7Saba
[sah-bah] - 8Sungani
[soon-gah-nee] - 9Tatu na chenga
[tah-too nah cheng-ah] - 10Kumi
[koo-mee]
- What time is it?Nshani ya nsiku?
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- Where's a/the...?Kuli kuti...?
[koo-lee koo-tee...?] - What's the address?Kuli kuli?
[koo-lee koo-lee?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Unga nshowa (pa map)?
[oon-gah n-show-ah (pah map)?] - When's the next (bus)?Chikala chani (bus)?
[chee-kah-lah chah-nee (bus)?] - A ticket (to ....)Ticket (ku ...)
[tee-ket (koo ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Kuli kuti...?
History of Southern Province
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Monze, one of the oldest towns in Southern Province, holds a significant place in Zambia's history. Named after Chief Monze, a revered leader of the Tonga people, the town has been a center of cultural and traditional activities for centuries. The Monze Agricultural Show, which started in the early 20th century, is a testament to the community's enduring agricultural heritage.
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In 1855, Scottish explorer David Livingstone became the first European to set eyes on the magnificent Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning 'The Smoke That Thunders.' This discovery brought international attention to the area, leading to increased exploration and eventual establishment of tourism. Today, the falls remain one of Zambia's most iconic natural landmarks.
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The arrival of the railway in the early 20th century was pivotal for the development of Livingstone, the capital of the Southern Province. The town was named after David Livingstone and became a crucial hub for the transportation of goods and people. The construction of the Victoria Falls Bridge in 1905 further solidified its importance, connecting Zambia with Zimbabwe and facilitating trade and tourism.
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The construction of the Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River in the late 1950s led to the displacement of the Gwembe Tonga people. The project, aimed at providing hydroelectric power, resulted in the creation of Lake Kariba, one of the world's largest man-made lakes. The resettlement of the Gwembe Tonga was a significant event, impacting their traditional way of life and leading to various social and economic challenges.
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Kalomo, another historic town in Southern Province, was the first administrative capital of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) from 1902 to 1907. The town is home to the Kalundu Mound, an archaeological site that provides insights into the early Iron Age settlements in the region. Kalomo's history as a pioneer town is a reflection of the broader colonial history of Zambia.
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Mazabuka, often referred to as the 'Sweetest Town in Zambia,' owes its nickname to the vast sugar plantations established in the area. The Zambia Sugar Company, founded in the 1960s, has been a major economic driver, transforming Mazabuka into an industrial hub. The sugar estates have also played a role in shaping the local community and economy, providing employment and supporting infrastructure development.
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The Tonga people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Southern Province, have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with the region's history. Traditional ceremonies such as the Lwiindi Gonde, which is held to honor ancestral spirits and ensure good rains, are integral to Tonga culture. The Tonga Museum in Choma serves as a repository of artifacts and information, preserving the legacy of the Tonga and educating visitors about their way of life.
Neighbouring Regions of Southern Province
The closest regions to Southern Province, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Zambia
Looking beyond Southern Province? Discover Zambia for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore ZambiaSouthern Province in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
The Enchanting Heart of Zambia: Southern Province
Southern Province in Zambia offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This region is home to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The thunderous roar and misty spray of the falls create a magical atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Nearby, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park provides a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can see elephants, zebras, and rhinos in their natural habitat. The province also boasts the serene Lake Kariba, the world's largest man-made lake by volume. Its tranquil waters and beautiful islands offer perfect spots for fishing, boating, and bird-watching. For those interested in history and culture, the Livingstone Museum provides fascinating insights into Zambia's past and the life of the famous explorer, Dr. David Livingstone. Moreover, Southern Province's vibrant local markets and traditional crafts provide a unique opportunity to experience Zambian culture firsthand. The friendliness and warmth of the local people make every visit memorable, creating a sense of connection and belonging that stays with you long after you've left.