Chama Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Chama, Zambia with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and tips for safety and transportation.


Introduction to Chama

Chama is a small town located in Eastern Zambia, near the border of Malawi. The town is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. It is a great destination for travelers who are seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Zambia.

List of Places to Visit in Chama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Chama has a rich cultural heritage that can be discovered through several museums and historical places. Here are some must-visit attractions:

  • Chama Museum - This museum displays artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Chama and the surrounding areas.
  • Mukanda Rock Paintings - These prehistoric rock paintings are located near the village of Mukanda and are believed to be over 5000 years old.
  • Chikwa Ruins - These ruins are the remains of an ancient city that was believed to be a trade center between Zambia and the East African coast.
  • Chief Nkula’s Palace - This is the former residence of the Chief Nkula, who played a significant role in Chama’s history.

Natural Attractions of Chama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chama is blessed with natural beauty and diverse landscapes that attract adventurers and nature lovers. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Chama:

  • Lukusashi River - This river is a popular spot for fishing and camping.
  • Mafinga Hills - These hills offer scenic views and are perfect for hiking and rock climbing.
  • Lundazi Forest Reserve - This reserve is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, including rare birds and animals such as the Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest.
  • Mambilima Falls - These majestic waterfalls are a popular picnic spot and offer a refreshing swim during hot days.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chama

Chama has several hiking and biking trails that offer adventurers a chance to explore the region’s natural landscapes. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Mafinga Ridge Hike - This 7 km hike offers stunning views of Mafinga Hills and the surrounding areas.
  • Lukusashi River Trail - This 5 km trail runs along the Lukusashi River and is ideal for nature walks and bird watching.
  • Chivunda Trail - This 19 km trail passes through the heart of Chama’s countryside and provides a glimpse into the region’s rural life.

Best Things to Do in Chama: Activities and Tours

Chama offers several exciting activities and tours for tourists. Here are some of the best things to do in Chama:

  • Visit a local village - Visitors can experience Chama’s rural life by visiting the local villages and interacting with the locals.
  • Fishing - The Lukusashi River is a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can rent fishing equipment and try their luck.
  • Bird watching - Chama’s diverse landscapes, including the Mafinga Hills and Lundazi Forest Reserve, attract a wide variety of bird species, making it an ideal destination for bird watching.
  • Cultural Festivals - Visitors can experience Chama’s rich cultural heritage by attending traditional festivals such as the N’cwala Ceremony.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chama

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Chama:

Day Activity
1 Visit Chama Museum, Mukanda Rock Paintings, and Chikwa Ruins
2 Hike Mafinga Ridge and explore the Mafinga Hills
3 Visit Lundazi Forest Reserve and observe rare bird species
4 Visit Chief Nkula’s Palace and learn about Chama’s history
5 Go fishing on the Lukusashi River
6 Explore Mambilima Falls and enjoy a picnic lunch
7 Attend the N’cwala Ceremony and experience Chama’s cultural heritage

Food and Drink Scene of Chama

Must-Try Dishes

Chama’s cuisine is largely based on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Nshima - A staple food in Zambia made from maize flour and served with various stews and vegetables.
  • Ifishimu - A traditional dish made from dried fish, groundnuts, and vegetables.
  • Chikanda - A popular snack made from the roots of the orchid plant and served with tomato and onion sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Maheu - A traditional drink made from maize meal, left to ferment overnight, and served chilled.
  • Munkoyo - A drink made from maize and millet, left to ferment for a few days, and served chilled.

Where to Stay in Chama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chama offers several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Chama:

  • Chama Lodge - A comfortable and affordable hotel located in the heart of Chama town.
  • Lukusashi River Camp - A serene and scenic campsite that offers camping and lodging facilities.
  • Chief Nkula’s Guesthouse - A traditional guesthouse located near Chief Nkula’s Palace.

What to Buy in Chama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Chama is known for its traditional crafts and handmade products. Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy in Chama:

  • Baskets - Chama is famous for its woven baskets made from natural materials such as bamboo and reeds.
  • Carvings - Hand-carved wooden figures, masks, and sculptures are popular souvenirs in Chama.
  • Textiles - Locally made fabrics such as chitenge and kikoi are perfect souvenirs to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Chama

Chama’s culture is strongly influenced by the Bemba and Chewa ethnic groups. The region is known for its traditional dance, music, and festivals, such as the annual N’cwala Ceremony, which celebrates the harvest season.

Best Time to Visit Chama

The best time to visit Chama is during the dry season between May and October when the weather is cooler and the landscapes are greener.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chama

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and explore the traditional crafts.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Show public displays of affection.
  • Touch someone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful in Zambian culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chama

Chama is a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take the necessary precautions such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep personal belongings close and secure.
  • Use a reputable tour operator for outdoor activities.

Health in Chama

Visitors to Chama should take the necessary health precautions such as:

  • Get vaccinated against malaria and other diseases before traveling.
  • Drink only bottled or filtered water.
  • Avoid street food and eat only from reputable establishments.

Getting to Chama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chama is located about 500 km from Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia. Here are some ways to get to Chama:

Airports Near Chama

  • Mfuwe International Airport - The airport is located about 200 km from Chama.

Bus Stations Near Chama

  • Isoka Bus Station - Located about 45 km from Chama.

Other Options

  • Visitors can arrange for a private car transfer or hire a car from Lusaka and drive to Chama.

How to Get Around in Chama

Chama is a small town, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance. Visitors can also hire bicycles or cars from the town center for transportation.

Where to Go Next from Chama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • South Luangwa National Park - Located about 300 km from Chama, South Luangwa is one of Zambia’s premier wildlife reserves and is known for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
  • Lake Malawi - Located just across the border in Malawi, Lake Malawi is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and water sports.

Conclusion

Chama is a hidden gem in Zambia that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. From its natural landscapes to its rich culture and history, Chama has something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan your trip and explore this beautiful region of Zambia.