Things To Do
in Kaoma
Kaoma is a small market town in western Zambia that serves as a regional hub for surrounding villages and farms. The town is a gateway to rural Western Province life, with markets, rivers and seasonal wetlands nearby that attract birdwatchers and anglers. Local culture is dominated by Lozi traditions and a relaxed, community-oriented pace of life, with bright market days and occasional traditional ceremonies.
Infrastructure is basic compared with larger Zambian cities, but Kaoma offers authentic rural experiences, friendly people and easy access to natural areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and taste some traditional Zambian snacks like nshima and ifisashi. Take time to photograph the colorful market scenes as they offer a glimpse into everyday life in Kaoma.
After lunch, head to the nearby Cultural Heritage Center, where you can learn about the rich history and traditions of the Lozi people. Participate in a traditional dance workshop, immersing yourself in the local culture. Spend time exploring the handcrafted artifacts available for purchase, supporting local artisans.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local eatery known for its authentic Zambian cuisine. Watch as the night transforms Kaoma, with stars twinkling above and the sounds of evening life surrounding you. End your day with a friendly chat with locals, who are eager to share stories about their everyday experiences.
Depart early to Liuwa Plain National Park for a day of wildlife spotting and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a guided safari drive, where you could encounter a variety of animals including wildebeests and zebras. Marvel at the tranquility and vastness of the wetlands, setting the perfect tone for an adventurous day ahead.
After your morning drive, enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature. Continue your exploration with a walking safari, allowing you to feel the wildness of the area up close. Spot rare bird species and learn about the unique ecosystem from your guide.
Return to Kaoma, where you can unwind after a day in the wilderness. Dine under the stars at a local guesthouse, reminiscing about the incredible wildlife experiences. Take a moment to reflect on the beauty of the Zambian landscape as the day comes to a close.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea (local kiosk) | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local bus / kombi ride | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse / room | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Zambian experience with strong local culture
- Low cost of travel and living
- Good opportunities for birdwatching, fishing and cultural interactions
- Friendly, community-oriented locals
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared with larger towns
- Poor road conditions during the rainy season can restrict travel
- Healthcare facilities are basic — serious cases require transfer
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- "Muli bwanji?" - How are you? (Nyanja/Chewa greeting commonly understood)
- "Moni" - Hello (Nyanja)
- "Zikomo" - Thank you (Nyanja)
- "Pepani" - Excuse me / Sorry (Nyanja)
- "Ndine wosavuta" - I am a visitor / I am new here (useful to indicate you are learning local ways)
Places to Visit in Kaoma
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful daily market scenes, portrait opportunities of vendors and vivid arrays of produce and crafts — best in the morning when trading is busiest.
Riverbanks and seasonal floodplains are rich in birdlife and dramatic reflections at sunrise and sunset; bring a zoom lens for wildlife.
Authentic rural architecture, daily chores and traditional dress make for compelling cultural photography with permission from subjects.
Open landscapes around Kaoma provide wide horizons for spectacular sunset and silhouette shots.
Food in Kaoma
Kaoma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Nshima (thick maize meal) served with ifisashi — a green vegetable and peanut leaf stew — is a staple and available at most local eateries and family homes.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught river fish, grilled or fried and served with nshima and relish; ask at the market for whatever fish is in season.
Dishes made from pumpkin or other leaves cooked with groundnuts or tomatoes — commonly prepared in homes and small food stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The busiest place for fresh produce, chicken and fish; try roasted maize, fried snacks and buy ingredients to sample local cooking. Vendors sell seasonal fruits, vegetables, dried fish and handmade goods.
Where local fishers sell their catch — great for very fresh, simple grilled or fried fish if the stalls are operating.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings and a handshake are common — take time to say hello and ask after family or health. Respectful, friendly conversation goes a long way.
Always ask before photographing people, particularly in private moments or ceremonies. A small gift or printed photo makes permission easier.
Dress modestly in town and villages — avoid overly revealing clothing. When visiting rural homes, remove hats and shoes if invited and follow host cues.
Elders are respected in many communities — address them politely and follow local customs during ceremonies or household visits.
Safety
Tipping in Kaoma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but modest. For helpful guides or good restaurant service leave a small tip (the equivalent of a few kwacha or a dollar or two). Tipping is informal and not expected in every situation.
Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) is the local currency and cash is king in Kaoma; carry smaller notes for markets. ATMs and card acceptance are limited — you may need to withdraw cash in Mongu or Lusaka. Mobile money is growing in Zambia but acceptance varies locally.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Heavy rains can make dirt roads muddy and sometimes impassable; many activities shift to the drier hours and river levels rise, improving boat travel and fishing but reducing overland access. Bring waterproof gear and plan for delays.
Cool mornings and evenings with comfortable daytime temperatures — a pleasant time for walks, village visits and birdwatching. Roads are usually in their best condition after the rains have dried.
Temperatures climb and landscapes dry out; water points shrink and wildlife may concentrate around permanent water sources. Carry plenty of water and sun protection.
Kaoma at Night
Hiking in Kaoma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal riverbank walks along the Luampa provide birding, gentle hiking and opportunities to see riverine life — best in the dry season or at lower water levels.
Short hikes to nearby low hills for panoramic views and photography; trails are informal and best done with a local guide or host.
Walks through seasonal wetland edges and floodplain channels during drier periods — great for spotting waterbirds and wetland specialists with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Kaoma by plane.
The closest regional airport in the provincial capital; offers limited domestic flights and is typically the most convenient air gateway to Western Province. From Mongu, Kaoma is reached by road (several hours depending on conditions).
Zambia’s main international airport (Lusaka). Many visitors fly into Lusaka and continue by domestic flight to Mongu or by road to Kaoma — road journeys can be long, so consider flight-plus-road combinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the dominant ethnic groups and cultural influences in the region; Lozi traditions and language (Silozi) are important locally.
Various neighboring ethnic groups live in the district, each contributing to the cultural mix in villages and markets.
Kaoma and surrounding areas have a largely young, rural demographic engaged in farming, fishing and small-scale trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — local matches and community games are common and a great way to connect with residents.
Netball and athletics are commonly played at schools and in community competitions, especially among women and youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaoma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can do well on nshima and vegetable relishes, beans and peanut-based dishes. Informal places may not label ingredients, so ask about cooking with fish or meat stock; guesthouses are more likely to accommodate specific requests.
Vegan options are possible but limited to plant relishes and maize nshima; cross-contamination with animal products may occur. Gluten is uncommon in traditional dishes, but always confirm preparation methods if you have celiac disease.
Halal-specific outlets are rare; inquire about meat sources. If you have food allergies, communicate them clearly and consider preparing some of your own food where possible.