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Southern Province
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Southern Province, Zambia combines Victoria Falls, Zambezi wildlife, Tonga culture, Lake Kariba and open agricultural landscapes.

Southern Province occupies a broad, varied stretch of southern Zambia, extending from the Kafue Flats and fertile farming country towards the Zambezi River, Lake Kariba and the Zimbabwean frontier. Its best-known gateway is Livingstone, a historic tourist centre beside Victoria Falls, but the province extends far beyond the falls. Choma, Monze, Mazabuka, Kalomo, Sinazongwe and smaller settlements reveal a quieter agricultural and cultural landscape, while the southern escarpment and Zambezi valley bring warmer conditions, wildlife and dramatic changes in altitude.
Read more about Southern Province
Livingstone is the province's principal international destination and the most developed base for visitors. Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or the Smoke That Thunders, is the defining natural landmark, but the town also preserves evidence of the region's colonial-era railway history and its place in the travels of David Livingstone. Nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park protects a small but important wildlife area along the Zambezi, including one of Zambia's notable rhinoceros conservation projects. River excursions, heritage visits and adventure activities are concentrated around Livingstone, with conditions varying considerably between the high-water and low-water seasons.
Away from the falls, the province is shaped by the Tonga people's long association with the Zambezi valley, plateau farming and cattle keeping. Southern Province is one of Zambia's principal maize-producing areas, and its open fields are especially visible around Monze, Choma and Mazabuka. The Tonga and Ila cultural presence is expressed through language, music, foodways, craft traditions and community life, although the province is socially diverse and should not be reduced to a single cultural identity. Choma's cultural institutions offer useful context for visitors wishing to understand the region beyond its major natural attractions.
The Kafue Flats, including Lochinvar National Park, provide a contrasting environment of floodplain, lagoon and grassland. Seasonal water levels influence birdlife, wildlife viewing and road conditions, while the park's remoteness gives it a markedly different character from the organised tourism around Livingstone. Further south, Lake Kariba's shoreline and the settlements around Sinazongwe offer fishing, boating and broad views across one of the world's largest artificial lakes. Access and facilities are more limited here, so journeys require advance planning and realistic expectations.
Southern Province rewards an itinerary that combines a few nights in Livingstone with time in the countryside or around Lake Kariba. Distances are considerable, public transport is strongest along the main road corridors, and remote parks are best approached with a capable vehicle and local guidance. The result is a region of major world-famous scenery, living cultural traditions, working agricultural landscapes and wide Zambezi horizons rather than a single, compact resort destination.

When is the best time to visit Southern Province?

Best: May, August–September · 22–25°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January28150
February28125
March28100
April2675
May (best)2325
June2010
July2010
August (best)2225
September (best)2550
October2875
November29100
December29150

Getting to and around Southern Province

How to get there

Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport is in Livingstone and receives domestic and some international services, with routes varying over time. Livingstone is also reachable by road from Lusaka, across the Kazungula area from Botswana, and from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe via the border crossing, subject to immigration requirements. The TAZARA railway serves parts of Zambia but is not a direct substitute for reaching Livingstone. Choma and other provincial towns are primarily reached by road from Lusaka or Livingstone, while Lake Kariba destinations require further road travel. Check current border, flight and road arrangements before departure.

Transportation

Livingstone has taxis, private transfers, tour vehicles and local minibuses, while intercity buses and minibuses connect the main towns along the principal highways. A car is useful for reaching rural areas, cultural sites and Lake Kariba, but remote roads may be rough or difficult after rain. Lochinvar National Park and other wildlife areas are best visited with an experienced driver and a suitable vehicle. Walking is practical in parts of Livingstone, but distances between attractions are substantial; cycling and informal transport require care on busy roads. Do not assume that map distances represent quick journeys.

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.

Best attractions in Southern Province

Southern Province's attractions are led by Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya, where viewpoints, guided walks and river-based activities present different aspects of the Zambezi gorge and cataracts. Livingstone also offers museums and railway heritage, as well as access to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, a compact wildlife area where guided drives may encounter elephant, giraffe, buffalo and rhinoceros. Away from Livingstone, the character changes. Lochinvar National Park protects floodplain and lagoon habitats on the Kafue Flats, with birdwatching and seasonal wildlife viewing dependent on water levels and road conditions. Lake Kariba provides a broad setting for fishing, boating and quiet lakeside stays near Sinazongwe, while the southern plateau offers agricultural scenery and cultural visits around Choma and Monze. These attractions are dispersed rather than concentrated in one resort zone, and remote areas have fewer facilities, making local guides, advance arrangements and flexible timing valuable.

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Best landmarks in Southern Province

Victoria Falls is Southern Province's defining landmark: the Zambezi plunges into a series of gorges along a dramatic basalt escarpment, producing the spray and thunder described by its local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya. The river and gorge are also central to the visual identity of Livingstone, whose historic railway buildings and colonial-era townscape recall the transport networks that opened the area to long-distance travel. The Livingstone Museum is an important civic landmark for interpreting regional archaeology, history and culture, while nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park preserves a rare wildlife landscape close to an urban centre. Further south, Lake Kariba forms an immense horizontal landmark rather than a single monument, with its shoreline, changing water levels and settlement history defining the Zambezi valley around Sinazongwe. On the plateau, open agricultural country and the Kafue Flats provide geographical landmarks whose importance lies in their scale, seasonal character and role in local livelihoods.

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Explore Southern Province on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Southern Province

Dining in Southern Province ranges from international and Zambian menus in Livingstone's hotels and restaurants to simple cafés, market stalls, roadside food and family-run eateries in the provincial towns. Local meals commonly draw on maize meal, vegetables, beans, chicken, beef and freshwater fish, with nshima serving as a central accompaniment. Around the Zambezi and Lake Kariba, bream and other locally caught fish may feature when available, while farming districts supply maize and seasonal produce. Livingstone has the widest choice, including restaurants aimed at international visitors, bakeries, cafés and places serving contemporary versions of regional food. In Choma, Monze and smaller settlements, dining is generally more informal and opening arrangements can be limited outside daytime and early evening. Ask about ingredients and preparation where necessary, and carry provisions on journeys into remote parks or lake country.

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Best bars in Southern Province

Livingstone has Southern Province's broadest evening scene, with hotel bars, restaurants, casual pubs, live entertainment and venues oriented towards visitors near the town centre and tourism areas. Some establishments offer views or excursions associated with the Zambezi, but river conditions and seasonal operations vary, so arrangements should be confirmed locally. Choma and other larger towns have informal bars, cafés and social venues, while evenings in rural districts tend to centre on local taverns, lodges or private gatherings rather than a substantial club circuit. Lake Kariba lodges may provide relaxed drinks and evening meals, but nightlife is generally quiet and location-dependent. Visitors should use reliable transport after dark, respect local communities and avoid assuming that alcohol is the only way to participate in local evening life.

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Best nightclubs in Southern Province

Livingstone has Southern Province's broadest evening scene, with hotel bars, restaurants, casual pubs, live entertainment and venues oriented towards visitors near the town centre and tourism areas. Some establishments offer views or excursions associated with the Zambezi, but river conditions and seasonal operations vary, so arrangements should be confirmed locally. Choma and other larger towns have informal bars, cafés and social venues, while evenings in rural districts tend to centre on local taverns, lodges or private gatherings rather than a substantial club circuit. Lake Kariba lodges may provide relaxed drinks and evening meals, but nightlife is generally quiet and location-dependent. Visitors should use reliable transport after dark, respect local communities and avoid assuming that alcohol is the only way to participate in local evening life.

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Best shops in Southern Province

Livingstone offers the province's most developed shopping for visitors, with craft markets, gallery-style outlets, hotel shops and independent sellers offering woodcarvings, baskets, textiles, artworks and jewellery. Buy thoughtfully: ask about materials and provenance, avoid wildlife products and check Zambia's export rules before purchasing antiques, cultural objects or protected natural materials. Food shops and markets in Livingstone, Choma and other towns are useful for fruit, vegetables, baked goods and everyday supplies, while rural roadside stalls may sell seasonal produce and locally made items. Choma is a practical stop for regional crafts and provisions rather than a large-scale retail destination. The main towns have ordinary high-street shops and supermarkets, but shopping becomes sparse around Lochinvar and Lake Kariba. Bargaining may be customary in some informal markets, though it should remain polite and proportionate.

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Southern Province essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the Zambian kwacha, coded ZMW, as throughout Zambia. Hotels, established restaurants, larger shops and many tourism businesses in Livingstone commonly accept cards, although connectivity or payment terminals can fail. Carry small amounts of kwacha for markets, local transport, rural purchases and smaller settlements; United States dollars may be accepted by some tourism businesses, but visitors should clarify the exchange rate and change arrangements. Outside the main towns, access to cash and reliable electronic payments is less predictable.
Safety
Take normal precautions with valuables, particularly in busy transport areas, markets and at night, and use established taxis or transfers. Around Victoria Falls and the Zambezi, follow guides' instructions and stay behind barriers, since slippery surfaces, strong currents and changing river conditions create genuine hazards. Wildlife areas require visitors to remain with guides and keep a safe distance from animals. Long-distance driving calls for daylight travel, careful speeds and attention to pedestrians, livestock, potholes and changing road conditions. Heat, sun exposure and dehydration are practical concerns during outdoor activities.
Emergency Situations
For urgent police, fire or ambulance assistance in Zambia, try the national emergency numbers 999 or 991, although response arrangements and network coverage can vary. In a serious incident near Victoria Falls or on the Zambezi, alert the tour operator, lodge or park staff immediately; water and wildlife emergencies should not be handled independently. Remote areas around Lochinvar and Lake Kariba may be far from medical facilities, so comprehensive travel insurance, medical information and a charged phone are important. Confirm local emergency procedures with accommodation providers on arrival.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress modestly in villages, markets and community settings, and ask before photographing people, homes, ceremonies or cultural displays. Follow park rules, never feed wildlife and do not cross barriers at Victoria Falls or approach animals on foot without an authorised guide. Greet people courteously and allow time for formal interactions rather than treating every encounter as a transaction. Tipping is discretionary but appreciated for good service, particularly by guides and lodge staff. Do not remove natural materials, archaeological objects or cultural artefacts, and avoid promising gifts to children.
Local Tips
Plan Victoria Falls visits around both the season and your interests: high water produces spray and powerful flow, while lower water can reveal more rock detail and alter viewpoints. Choma provides useful cultural context between Livingstone and the plateau farming districts. Lake Kariba trips are best arranged in advance because accommodation, fuel, boats and supplies can be widely spaced. The province is large, so pairing Livingstone with one additional area is usually more rewarding than attempting to cover every attraction in a rushed circuit.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
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 ...)]

History of Southern Province

Early Settlement and the Tonga Cultural Landscape

Southern Province has a long history of human settlement shaped by the Zambezi, the Kafue Flats and the surrounding plateau. Tonga-speaking communities developed agricultural, fishing and cattle-keeping economies adapted to seasonal rivers and grasslands, while neighbouring Ila and other communities contributed to the region's cultural diversity. Archaeological evidence across southern Zambia points to settlement and trade over many centuries, although surviving heritage is often less monumental than the region's natural landscapes. The continuity of local languages, food traditions and land-based livelihoods remains an important part of the province's identity.

Nineteenth-Century Trade and Missionary Encounters

During the nineteenth century, the Zambezi corridor connected southern Zambia with wider networks of trade, migration and political power. European missionaries and explorers travelled through the region, and David Livingstone's journeys brought international attention to the Zambezi and its cataracts. His 1855 visit to the falls, which he named Victoria Falls in honour of Queen Victoria, entered the European mapping and colonial record, although the falls were already known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya. These encounters altered regional politics and helped establish routes later used by colonial administrators and commercial interests.

Colonial Rule and the Railway

Southern Province became part of Northern Rhodesia under British colonial rule. The railway was central to the colonial economy, linking mining centres farther north with southern routes and ports, while roads and administrative stations expanded around older settlements. Livingstone developed as an important transport and administrative centre near the falls, and agriculture became increasingly commercialised on the plateau. Colonial boundaries and institutions reshaped land use and authority, often sidelining existing systems of governance. Railway buildings, town plans and surviving civic structures in Livingstone still reflect this period.

The Kariba Dam and the Zambezi Valley, 1950s

The construction of Kariba Dam on the Zambezi, completed in the late 1950s, transformed the valley shared by present-day Zambia and Zimbabwe. The reservoir generated hydroelectric power and created a major inland fishing and boating economy, but its construction also displaced communities and altered riverine environments. In Zambia, settlements around the developing lake, including areas near Sinazongwe, became part of this new economic and ecological landscape. The project remains a powerful example of the social costs and large-scale ambitions of late colonial infrastructure development.

Independence and Regional Change, 1964

Zambia became independent in 1964, with Kenneth Kaunda as its first president. Southern Province entered national life with an economy based on agriculture, cattle, transport links and tourism around Livingstone. Post-independence governments expanded education, public administration and agricultural services, while the province's border position gave it continuing importance for trade and travel. The political and economic changes of the independence era also encouraged stronger recognition of local cultural identities within the Zambian nation.

Livingstone and the Growth of Tourism

From the late twentieth century onwards, Livingstone became one of Zambia's leading tourism centres, built around Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River and cross-border travel with Zimbabwe. Hotels, lodges, guiding companies and adventure operators expanded, while conservation initiatives developed in and around Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Tourism has brought employment and international visibility, but it is also seasonal and sensitive to water levels, economic conditions and conservation pressures. The town's contemporary character combines heritage, hospitality and access to one of Africa's most important natural landmarks.

Conservation and Contemporary Rural Economies

Modern Southern Province is shaped by the interaction of conservation, farming, fishing, tourism and expanding transport networks. Lochinvar National Park protects part of the Kafue Flats, while Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park safeguards habitat close to Livingstone. Around Lake Kariba, fishing and lake-based livelihoods remain significant, although changing water conditions and environmental pressures affect communities. Agricultural production around the plateau continues to play a major role in the provincial economy. These overlapping uses make land management, community participation and wildlife protection central issues in the region's future.

Southern Province in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Southern Province, Zambia

Discover Southern Province with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, tours, and more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Evendo is the essential travel guide for exploring Southern Province, Zambia. This free app offers detailed information on attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more, helping you make the most of your trip.

  • History of Southern Province
  • Travel essentials for visiting Southern Province
  • Curated local tips to experience the destination like a local
  • Easy navigation through the app and the city/destination
  • 'Near Me' feature to easily see what is around you, no matter where you are
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Southern Province, Zambia, a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With Evendo, your adventure starts with just a tap. This 100% free app-based travel guide is designed to help you seamlessly explore everything Southern Province has to offer.

Begin your journey at the famous Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Feel the spray of the mighty Zambezi River as you stand in awe of its power and beauty. Next, visit the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including the endangered white rhino.

For a taste of local culture, explore the vibrant streets of Livingstone. Discover unique shops, bustling markets, and top-rated restaurants like Cafe Zambezi and Olga's Italian Corner. The app provides detailed descriptions, images, local tips, and contact details, making it easy for you to plan your visit.

Whether you're looking to book a hotel, arrange a tour, or find out about local activities, Evendo has got you covered. With our easy-to-use interface, you can navigate through Southern Province effortlessly. Use the 'Near Me' feature to discover attractions, bars, and restaurants around your current location.

Download Evendo today and unlock the best of Southern Province, Zambia, all in one place. Your unforgettable adventure awaits!

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