Culture of Zambia
Discover the traditions, heritage and culture of Zambia with tips from our experts.
The Zambian culture has its roots in native traditions but it is usually only in the rural regions that they are strictly followed, such as lobola, a dowry that is given to the parents of a new bride. Most Zambian people follow Christianity although there are a few Muslims and Hindus and followers of traditional tribal belief systems. When a member of a community dies, morning is done loudly and emotionally during the burial.
Music and dance are an integral part of the culture of Zambia. When you enjoy one of our Zambia tours you will find that there are many initiation ceremonies in the society that involve drumming and dance. A thumb piano known as the mbira is an integral part of local music. It was near extinction in the 1930s, but made a comeback in the 1960s and is now popular in the world music scene.
Culture is best seen in the busy markets where the local Zambian people congregate and shop.
Kwela, a penny-whistle based street music, Afro-jazz, gospel, and jit (electric-guitar focused pop music), rumba and Bulawayo (Zimbabwean hip hop)are also all popular musical styles, which you can experience on your Zambia tours.
Top Zambian Travel Tips – Culture
- If someone approaches you, it is expected that you will give the first greeting, which is important for establishing a conversation
- Handshakes are popular but men should not offer their hand upon greeting a woman unless she offers it first
- Gift giving is considered a sign of friendship and honor, therefore it is considered insulting to refuse a gift
- Always accept gifts with both hands as you thank the person.
Dream Carefree
Go ahead and dream big. Enchanting Travels experts are here to help you plan the ultimate escape. Tell us your vision for the trip of a lifetime and we’ll make it a reality.
Plan Carefree
One of our destination experts will reach out to craft a completely customized itinerary. Book your personalized journey and know that our flexible policies have you covered.
Travel Carefree
Relax and prepare for takeoff, knowing that your trip is perfectly planned and you have a personal concierge on call 24/7. Our experts are here to keep you safe and handle the details.
Meet Simba And Friends On A ‘Lion King’ Inspired African Safari
Embark on a journey through raw, wild and wondrous Africa as you retrace the footsteps of Simba and his friends and discover the lands that inspired The Lion King.
More Reasons to Tour Africa: Top Nine Movies Set in the Wild
Planning to tour Africa? To help you plan your vacation, we've made a list of the top nine movies set in Africa.
9 Cultural Experiences in East Africa
Uncover the top cultural experiences in East Africa on your tailor-made tour.
Zambia: Victoria Falls and Safari Highlights
13 Days: $ 13,790 / person
“This was truly an “Enchanting” adventure! The value and service was beyond excellent! The entire team ensured every detail was taken care of and went out of their way to welcome us! And every hotel and excursion was amazing, and we were greeted with welcoming open arms every where we stayed! Nothing was left to chance…and we felt so secure knowing Enchanting Travels had everything lined up for us! Even our lodges said Enchanting Travels was a top-notch company!”
“We have used Enchanting Travels twice to help us with our African adventures, and totally appreciate the details and planning. Visiting several countries in Africa requires transfers and planning, and Enchanting were on top of everything.”
“We received complete support from Enchanting’s travel experts from day 1. They were very prompt in developing an itinerary that fit into our budget and interests; answered all our questions with clarity and advised on various options and special arrangements we wanted to make.”
“This was the trip of a lifetime for my husband and I. It was first class service from the moment we landed. The ease of having everything pre-booked for us really allowed us to enjoy our trip. I would highly recommend this service for anyone looking to plan a trip like this.”
“We chose Enchanting Travels for a Kenya, South Africa and Botswana trip. We will not hesitate to rely on them in the future. Everyone from start to finish was informative and dependable. Enchanting Travels even surprised us with an awesome dinner experience for just the two of us.”
“We have traveled with Enchanting five years in a row. The travel experience with Enchanting has always been unique and memorable for us, for they offer fully customized itineraries that perfectly suit our needs. They always go above and beyond to fulfill our needs throughout our travel.”
One of the very best travel experiences I have ever had. We even got updates once at 3 am! He also made one change in one day’s itinerary to accommodate our wishes which was very wonderful. For business, I have traveled to Europe, Russia, all over Asia and South Africa but was blown away by all the beautiful sites in Argentina and Chile.
All the little touches made by our Enchanting Travel consultant, Amelia Edwards, were noticed and recognized by my wife and I. Thank you for making our milestone trip (25th wedding anniversary) such a memorable one! We look forward to engaging Enchanting Travels again for our next South American adventure!!
This was my first adventure as a solo traveler. But while I may have traveled on my own, I was never alone. I was well taken care of by a superb team of planners, trip coordinators, guides and drivers.
Do you have a vacation in mind? Let us help you create the trip of a lifetime.