Things To Do
in Kafue
Kafue is a town located in the Lusaka Province of Zambia, known for being situated along the Kafue River. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts due to its close proximity to the Kafue National Park, one of the largest national parks in Africa. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere with its lush surroundings and opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities like fishing and boating.
Visitors to Kafue can experience the beauty of Zambia's natural landscape and diverse wildlife.
- "Muli bwanji" - How are you
- "Natotela" - Thank you
- "Bwanji" - Hello
- "Nanga" - Goodbye
- "Ndikufuna" - I want
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided game drive in Kafue National Park, where you can spot zebras and antelopes. The early morning is the best time for animal sightings as they are more active and visible.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon on a boat safari on the Kafue River, observing hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Return to your lodge for dinner and share stories of the day's adventures. Take in the stunning sunset views over the river while sipping on a refreshing drink.
Embark on a walking safari in the park, guided by an experienced ranger. This unique experience allows you to connect with nature closely and learn about the flora and fauna.
After a hearty camp lunch, visit a local village to learn about the culture and traditions of the Zambian people. Engage with the community and explore their crafts and daily activities.
Spend your evening at a riverside campfire, enjoying traditional Zambian meals. Listen to local music and stories under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity: Kafue National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts and ecotourism.
- Cultural heritage: The area is rich in Zambian culture and traditions, providing visitors with a unique cultural experience.
- Natural beauty: The scenic landscapes of Kafue, including the Kafue River and expansive wetlands, offer stunning views and opportunities for photography.
- Adventure activities: Kafue offers opportunities for fishing, bird watching, and safaris, appealing to adventure seekers.
- Less crowded: Compared to other national parks in Zambia, Kafue is less frequented by tourists, providing a more peaceful experience.
- Access difficulties: Some areas of Kafue can be challenging to reach due to poor road conditions and limited transportation options.
- Limited infrastructure: Accommodation and facilities may not be as developed as in other popular tourist destinations in Zambia.
- Seasonal challenges: The wet season can make certain areas inaccessible, limiting travel options.
- Wild animal risks: Visitors should be cautious of wildlife interactions, as there are inherent dangers in areas inhabited by wild animals.
- Limited services: Health and emergency services may be sparse, making it essential for visitors to be self-sufficient.
Best Activities in Kafue
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a thrilling game drive to spot a variety of wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and more in the Kafue National Park.
Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Kafue River, where you can observe birds, crocodiles, and hippos while taking in the beautiful landscape.
Join a guided walking safari through the untouched wilderness of Kafue, allowing for a more intimate and up-close experience with the natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kafue with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kafue
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of vast grasslands and wildlife against a backdrop of a beautiful sunset.
Provides opportunities for scenic views of the dam and surrounding landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal location for photography.
Food in Kafue
Kafue Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Nshima, a staple of Zambian cuisine, is a thick maize porridge often served with grilled fish. The dish is commonly enjoyed for its hearty and satisfying qualities. Recommended place to try: Local eateries near the Kafue River offering fresh grilled fish with Nshima.
Must-Try!
Kapenta are small, freshwater fish that are typically sun-dried or fried. They are seasoned with local herbs and spices, offering a delightful crunchy texture and a rich umami flavor. Recommended place to try: Look for street food vendors along Kafue's bustling marketplaces or near the riverbanks.
Chibwabwa, or pumpkin leaves, are often stewed and served with Ifisashi, a peanut-based sauce. This dish is a prime example of Zambian comfort food, featuring a harmonious blend of flavors. Recommended place to try: Traditional homesteads or local family-owned restaurants offering authentic home-cooked meals.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kafue better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Kafue Friday Market is a bustling hub of activity, where visitors can sample a wide array of street food, including grilled meats, traditional snacks, and fresh produce. It's an excellent opportunity to immerse in the local food culture and interact with friendly vendors.
Along the picturesque Kafue Riverfront, visitors can discover a myriad of street food stalls offering an assortment of grilled meats, fried delicacies, and flavorful snacks. It's an ideal spot to savor authentic local street food while taking in the scenic views of the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kafue, Zambia, it's important to greet people with a handshake and a smile. Handshakes are commonly used as a sign of respect and should be firm but not overly strong.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Kafue. It's important to address older individuals with proper titles and to show deference in speech and behavior.
It's crucial to be culturally sensitive and respectful of local customs and traditions in Kafue, Zambia. This includes being mindful of dress and behavior in public spaces, such as modest attire and polite language.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kafue with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kafue
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kafue, Zambia, tipping is not a widely practiced custom. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10-15% service charge may be included in the bill. It is not common to tip taxi drivers or service providers in the informal sector.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Kafue, Zambia. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some larger businesses and hotels, but it's always advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting rural areas. Mobile money transactions are also becoming increasingly popular for everyday payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kafue.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for game viewing as animals gather around water sources, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. Temperatures are cooler and there are fewer mosquitoes.
Landscape is lush and green due to the rains, birdlife is abundant, and it's an ideal time for birdwatching. However, some areas may become inaccessible due to flooding, and mosquitoes are more prevalent.
Kafue at Night
Hiking in Kafue
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national park that offers diverse hiking trails through beautiful landscapes, wildlife viewing opportunities, and stunning river views.
Nearby the Kafue region, this area provides various hiking routes within a game management zone, offering chances to spot wildlife and explore natural scenery.
A notable hiking destination near Kafue with trails leading to panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and opportunities for birdwatching.
A scenic trail that follows the Chunga River, providing a unique experience with nature including river landscapes and local wildlife.
This trail offers a chance to explore the beautiful banks of the Lufupa River, rich in flora and fauna, ideal for nature walks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kafue through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kafue by plane.
The largest international airport in Zambia, located near Lusaka, approximately 60 km from Kafue.
An international airport located in Livingstone, approximately 150 km from Kafue, serving one of Zambia's main tourist destinations.
Located in Ndola, this airport is about 300 km from Kafue and serves the Copperbelt region of Zambia.
An airport located in Kasama, approximately 470 km from Kafue, serving the Northern Province of Zambia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in Zambia, particularly prevalent in the Northern and Central Provinces, including areas within Kafue.
The indigenous people of the Southern Province of Zambia, which includes a significant presence in Kafue.
A prominent ethnic group found in Lusaka and surrounding areas, including Kafue.
An ethnic group mainly found in the western parts of Zambia, with some presence in Kafue.
Primarily located in the North-Western Province but also seen in Kafue due to migration and settlement.
An ethnic group mainly found in Eastern Zambia, with some migration into the Kafue area.
A group originally from Malawi but present in parts of Zambia, including Kafue.
Includes various smaller groups and migrants from different regions, contributing to the diverse demographics of Kafue.
The Soul of Kafue
Discover the essence of Kafue through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kafue, drawing large crowds and fostering community spirit through local leagues and teams.
Netball is widely played among women and girls, with many community teams participating in local championships.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with several courts available for play.
Rugby is gaining traction in Kafue, with local clubs forming and engaging in matches with neighboring communities.
Athletics is popular in schools and communities, with events often organized to promote physical fitness and talent.
Cricket is played recreationally, particularly among youth, and there are efforts to formalize it through schools and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kafue.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants in Kafue offer an array of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable stews, lentil-based meals, and fresh salads. It's advisable to communicate specific dietary preferences to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options in Kafue, including naturally gluten-free dishes like grilled meats, fresh fish, and local vegetable-based entrees. While gluten-free products may not be widely advertised, friendly staff are often willing to accommodate special dietary needs upon request.