• Zambia,
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  • Zambia
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Zambia

By Amy Adejokun Amy Adejokun Section editor
Follow the path of the explorer David Livingstone along the Zambezi River, discover the African fauna in the Luangwa National Park and marvel at Victoria Falls. Apart from its transport infrastructure shortfalls, Zambia is lacking nothing in comparison to its Tanzanian and Namibian neighbours. The 70 tribes that make up the Zambian population offer a pleasant level of cultural diversity, with passionate ancestral traditions. Its crafts are also very rich, such as its basket making talent, considered as one of the best in Africa. This destination is not yet invaded by tourists, so travel to Zambia while it remains at its best?

Our Editorial team's advice

Zambia is a country of nature reserves of wild animals that should not be missed under any circumstances. Accommodation is often costly but it is always possible to find cheaper options for places to stay the night.

pros

  • +Diversity of the tropical fauna.
  • +Exceptional landscape, most notably the course of the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls.

cons

  • -The relative insecurity around certain borders.
  • -Tourism is still quiet

Traditions

Zambian traditions come from a mixture of more than 70 different ethnicities. Young people from the cities try to embrace western traditions, while old tribal customs persist in the rural areas. Here, people greet one another before speaking. Women must hold out their hand first when greeting a man.
The receiving of a gift is a sign of friendship or gratitude. Therefore, never refuse a gift. Thank the person offering the gift and take it with both hands.

Food

Zambia is not well known for its culinary culture. There are often extreme food shortages. You should reserve well in advance for the few restaurants that there are.

Souvenirs

Traditional Zambian crafts are very varied as they are not mass produced. Basket making is particularly prevalent, made of bamboo, creeper, roots, papyrus or bark. These are everyday objects, decorated with symbolic designs and painted using natural dyes. It is particularly men who undertake woodwork. From this trade come masks, canes, percussion instruments, cooking utensils or representations of wild animals. Pottery is also very popular. Shops and markets are open from 8:00 am to midday and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Monday to Saturday.