Things To Do
in Mpika
Mpika is a highland town in Zambia’s Muchinga Province, perched along the Great North Road at coordinates -11.83, 31.46. It serves as a gateway to the surrounding highlands, rivers, and nearby wildlife areas, offering a relaxed base for outdoor adventures. The town blends rural charm with a growing set of basic services, markets, and occasional cultural events.
Expect lush scenery, friendly locals, and a slower pace typical of northern Zambia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Mpika and settle into your accommodation. After refreshing, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local cafe to fuel your adventures. Take some time to explore the nearby area and get a feel for the local culture.
Visit the Mpika market, where you can interact with local vendors and sample traditional Zambian snacks. Shop for local crafts and goods, and admire the vibrant atmosphere of commerce and community. Take photographs of the lively scenes to capture the essence of Mpika.
Dine at a rustic restaurant, sampling typical Zambian dishes such as nshima and grilled meats. Enjoy the sounds of the evening, and if available, listen to traditional music or engage in conversations with locals. Retire early to rest up for the adventurous days ahead.
Set off early for Kasanka National Park, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. Arrive and join a guided walking safari to experience the beauty of the Zambian wilderness up close. Keep your eyes peeled for various species of birds and animals as you trek through the park.
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature before embarking on a boat trip on the park’s wetlands. Witness stunning landscapes and possibly catch sight of hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun. Spend the afternoon soaking in the serene atmosphere of this unique ecosystem.
Return to Mpika in the evening and unwind at your accommodation. Relish a dinner featuring local flavors while recounting the day’s highlights. A peaceful night under the stars finishes off your exciting day in the wild.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥪Lunch for two at a midrange restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Local crafts or small souvenir | $3-20 |
| 🏥Basic clinic visit | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes and easy access to escarpment viewpoints
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Low-cost base for exploring northern Zambia
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to bigger cities
- Roads can be rough and travel times longer than expected
- "Moni" - Hello
- "Muli bwanji?" - How are you?
- "Ndine bwino" - I am well
- "Zikomo" - Thank you
- "Chonde" - Please / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Mpika
Visit one of these nice places.
A high vantage point along the river where the winding water and surrounding vegetation create dramatic landscape shots.
A sweeping ridge with panoramic views of the plateaus, valleys, and forested slopes—great for sunrise or sunset photography.
Colorful markets, daily routines, and local architecture offer candid photography opportunities.
Food in Mpika
Mpika Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maize porridge served with a variety of relishes such as greens, peanuts, or tomato-based sauces.
Must-Try!
A peanut-based sauce with leafy greens and vegetables, often enjoyed with nshima.
A traditional tuber-based cake made from wild orchid tubers and peanut flour, often served as a side dish.
Dried small fish fried or stewed and served with nshima for a protein-rich meal.
Slow-cooked meat in a tomato-onion sauce, paired with nshima.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling center for fresh produce, maize, groundnuts, roasted snacks, and simple street meals.
Casual spots offering fried plantains, grilled fish, and quick nshima plates along the main roads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely with a handshake and a warm hello. Address elders with respect and avoid hasty criticisms in public.
Ask permission before photographing people or private property; offer a small token or thank-you note afterward.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in rural areas and places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Mpika
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In better-equipped eateries, a small tip (5–10%) is standard if service is good. For market stalls and basic services, rounding up is sufficient.
Cash (ZMW) is widely accepted; some larger shops may take mobile money or local cards. Mobile money transfers are common among locals for smaller transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler nights and comfortable daytime temperatures; best for hiking and outdoor activities. Roads are typically more passable, and wildlife viewing can be productive near water sources.
Lush vegetation and dramatic thunderstorms; rainfall can make some roads slow or impassable after heavy showers. Pack waterproof gear and be prepared for delayed travel plans.
Mpika at Night
Hiking in Mpika
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A ridge-top route with expansive views over plateaus and forested slopes; best in dry weather.
Shaded riverside path ideal for a leisurely hike and birdwatching; watch for water birds and capers of local life.
Airports
How to reach Mpika by plane.
Small regional airport serving Kasama and surrounding districts; limited scheduled flights.
Major international and domestic airport with broader flight options; commonly used for onward travel to northern Zambia.
Airport serving the South Luangwa region; farther from Mpika but used for longer safari itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority language and cultural influence in Mpika and Muchinga.
Other significant language groups in the region; contribute to local customs and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mpika.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose nshima with peanut sauces, leafy greens, beans, and vegetable stews. Request oil-light preparations and avoid fish sauces if needed; most eateries can accommodate simple veggie dishes.