Things To Do
in Mpika
Mpika is a town located in the Muchinga Province of Zambia. It serves as a commercial and administrative center for the surrounding region. The town is situated along the Great North Road, which is a major transportation route in Zambia.
Mpika is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, and rivers.
- "Muli bwanji" - How are you
- "Natotela" - Thank you
- "Bwanji" - Hello
- "Nanga" - Goodbye
- "Ndikufuna" - I want
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ 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 visit to the nearby wildlife reserves. Take a guided safari tour to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots within the reserve. Spend the afternoon hiking some of the marked trails.
Wind down with a sunset view over the African plains. Relax at your lodge and enjoy traditional Zambian dinner.
Visit a local market to experience Zambian culture and pick up some handmade crafts. Engage with the locals and learn about their way of life.
Participate in a workshop to learn traditional craft-making techniques. Help prepare a local dish with a nearby family.
Join a community gathering and enjoy traditional music and dances. Share stories with locals around a campfire.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and ceremonies.
- Abundant natural resources and scenic landscapes, including the nearby Copperbelt region.
- Community-oriented lifestyle with strong social ties and support.
- Agricultural potential due to fertile land for farming and livestock rearing.
- Emerging tourism opportunities due to the natural beauty and wildlife in the area.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities and services.
- Poor infrastructure, including roads and transportation options.
- Economic challenges with high levels of poverty and limited job opportunities.
- Seasonal climate variations that can affect agriculture and livelihoods.
- Potential for political and social instability in the region.
Best Activities in Mpika
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the wilderness on foot and encounter a variety of wildlife such as elephants, buffalo, and leopards in their natural habitat.
Paddle along the scenic Luangwa River and enjoy close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird species.
Try your hand at fishing for tigerfish and bream while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings and potentially encountering other wildlife.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby villages and learning about traditional customs, crafts, and community life.
Discover the rich birdlife of the region, which includes various species of raptors, hornbills, and colorful migratory birds.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mpika with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mpika
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning waterfall offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities in Mpika, Zambia.
A prime location for capturing scenic views and outdoor photography in Mpika, Zambia.
A picturesque spot for capturing the beauty of nature and wildlife in Mpika, Zambia.
Food in Mpika
Mpika Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A nutritious dish made from wild orchid tubers, groundnuts, and spices, often served as a street food delicacy.
Must-Try!
A staple consisting of thick maize porridge (nshima) accompanied by a savory sauce, such as ifisashi, made from leafy greens, groundnuts, and other ingredients.
A flavorful chicken stew seasoned with local herbs and spices, representing the Bemba culinary tradition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mpika better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant hub of local food vendors and market stalls where visitors can find an array of fresh produce, meats, and street food delights like grilled meats, roasted corn, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mpika, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a smile, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It is also customary to greet elders first as a sign of respect.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in Mpika. It is considered respectful to maintain a decent distance when communicating with others, especially those of the opposite gender.
It is important to show respect for the traditional customs and practices of the local people in Mpika. This includes being mindful of local taboos and traditions, and seeking permission before taking photographs in certain areas.
Safety
Tipping in Mpika
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mpika, Zambia, tipping is not widely practiced. It is not customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for other services. However, if exceptional service is provided, a small tip may be given as a token of appreciation, but it is not expected.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Mpika, Zambia. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in rural areas. It is important for visitors to carry enough cash for their transactions. Some larger establishments in urban areas may accept card payments, but it is always best to have cash on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Mpika as the weather is dry, the roads are accessible, and wildlife is easily spotted around rivers and waterholes.
During this time, Mpika experiences heavy rains, lush green landscapes, and the arrival of migratory birds. However, road conditions may become challenging, and wildlife may be more dispersed.
Mpika at Night
Hiking in Mpika
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kafue National Park is one of the largest national parks in Zambia, offering stunning landscapes and various hiking trails amidst breathtaking wildlife and natural beauty.
A less explored area near Mpika, Tondwa Wilderness offers hiking opportunities with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife spotting.
The Chama River Valley provides scenic hiking routes alongside the river, perfect for those looking to combine hiking with fishing and bird watching.
Located to the south of Mpika, Nsumbu National Park features hiking trails that showcase its lush vegetation and scenic lakes, offering a unique hiking experience.
The Lukulu River Trail offers a combination of river views and forest hiking, ideal for adventurers looking for a serene environment with chances to spot local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Mpika by plane.
The primary international airport serving Lusaka, Zambia, located approximately 578 kilometers from Mpika.
Located in Livingstone, this international airport is about 645 kilometers from Mpika and serves as a gateway to the Victoria Falls.
Located in Ndola, about 540 kilometers from Mpika, this airport provides access to various international flights.
Located in Mongu, approximately 660 kilometers from Mpika, primarily serves domestic flights with some international connections.
A regional airport located in Kasama, approximately 204 kilometers from Mpika, with limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Mpika, known for their agricultural practices and rich cultural heritage.
A significant ethnic group in the region, primarily engaged in farming and also known for their unique cultural traditions.
An important group with a distinct language and cultural practices, involved in both agriculture and livestock keeping.
A smaller group known for their farming skills and traditional crafts.
A less common group in the area, contributing to the diversity of the local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Mpika and across Zambia. It has a strong following, with many local teams and community support.
Netball is a popular women's sport in Mpika, often played in schools and communities, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Track and field events, particularly running, are popular among the youth in Mpika, with various competitions held throughout the year.
Rugby is gaining popularity, with local clubs forming and participating in regional competitions, contributing to the sport's growth in the area.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, with local leagues and community courts attracting young players eager to develop their skills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mpika.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Zambian cuisine heavily features meat-based dishes, some restaurants in Mpika offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as vegetable stews and grilled plant-based skewers.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find options like grilled meats, fresh salads, and rice-based dishes in many restaurants, though it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.