Northern Plateau Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and rich culture of Northern Plateau in Zambia. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Northern Plateau

Northern Plateau is a region situated in the northern region of Zambia, known for its magnificent landscapes, rich culture, and rare wildlife. The area is a blend of stunning plains, rugged cliffs, and deep valleys, surrounded by hills with lush vegetation. Northern Plateau offers visitors a chance to explore Zambia’s natural beauty, engage with the local population, and learn about the country’s rich history.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Plateau

Northern Plateau has a wide variety of must-see destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kasanka National Park
  • Bangweulu Wetlands
  • Mutinondo Wilderness Area
  • Kasama Arts Market
  • Chishimba Falls

Natural Attractions of Northern Plateau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shiwa Ng’andu
  • Lavushi Manda National Park
  • Lake Chila
  • Lake Tanganyika
  • Kapishya Hot Springs

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Plateau

Northern Plateau offer some fantastic hiking and biking routes with an array of breathtaking views:

  • Lavushi Manda National Park, the Wildlife Corridor Trail
  • Shiwa Ng’andu, the Waterfall Trail
  • Mutinondo Wilderness Area, the Traversing Trail
  • Lake Chila, the Lakeshore Trail
  • Luangwa Valley, the Cultural Trail

Best Things to Do in Northern Plateau: Activities and Tours

  • Discovering Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage
  • Meeting the people of Katete
  • Going wild in West Lunga National Park
  • Visiting Bangweulu Wetlands
  • Enjoying a river safari along the mighty Zambezi

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Plateau

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Northern Plateau:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Northern Plateau and settle down at your accommodation
Day 2 Visit Kasanka National Park
Day 3 Explore the trails of Mutinondo Wilderness Area
Day 4 Discover the Kapishya Hot Springs
Day 5 Enjoy a river safari along the Zambezi River
Day 6 Visit the Chishimba Falls
Day 7 Drive to Shiwa Ng’andu and relax by the lake

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Plateau

Northern Plateau has a vibrant food and drink scene, offering delicious local delicacies and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nshima: A staple in Zambian cuisine made of maize flour, served with vegetables and meat.
  • Kapenta: A small freshwater fish from Lake Kariba, usually served fried or in a stew.
  • Chikanda: A delicacy made of cassava flour, peanuts, and wild greens, and served as a snack or main course.

Local Beverages

  • Munkoyo: A refreshing beverage made from the root bark of a tree, with a sour and slightly sweet taste.
  • Shake-Shake: A cocktail made from Amarula cream liqueur and pineapple juice.

Where to Stay in Northern Plateau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Plateau provides a wide range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to guesthouses and backpackers’ hostels. Some well-known accommodation options are:

  • Shiwa Ng’andu Lodge
  • Kasanka Trust Lodge
  • Mutinondo Wilderness
  • Nsofu Camp
  • Kapishya Hot Springs Lodge

What to Buy in Northern Plateau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Northern Plateau is home to rare handcrafted items and unique artifacts that would make beautiful souvenirs. Some of the best souvenirs to buy are:

  • Handwoven baskets and mats made by local artisans
  • Traditional jewelry and clothing
  • Wood carvings and toys
  • Paintings and crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Plateau

The people of Northern Plateau have a rich culture, with a strong belief in folklore and traditional beliefs. Some cultural customs include:

  • A genuine love for God, with Christianity being the dominant religion
  • The importance of community and family
  • The practice of traditional dance, music and story-telling

Best Time to Visit Northern Plateau

The best time to visit Northern Plateau is from April to October when the climate is dry and pleasant. The months of November to March are the rainy season, and many parks and attractions may be closed due to impassable roads.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Plateau

Do:

  • Respect the local cultures and customs
  • Dress modestly and cover up when visiting religious sites
  • Try the local delicacies and participate in local activities

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs without asking permission
  • Don’t litter or cause harm to the environment
  • Don’t be disrespectful or insensitive to the locals

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Plateau

Northern Plateau is generally safe, but it is always essential to take necessary precautions, such as:

  • Avoiding walking alone at night
  • Keeping your belongings safe and secure
  • Sticking to marked routes when hiking or exploring the wilderness

Health in Northern Plateau

Before traveling to Northern Plateau, it is recommended to get vaccinated against malaria and yellow fever. Other precautions include wearing insect repellent and using mosquito nets.

Getting to Northern Plateau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northern Plateau

Northern Plateau is served by two airports:

  • Mfuwe International Airport
  • Kasama Airport

Bus Stations Near Northern Plateau

The bus service in Zambia is affordable and readily available, with some of the bus companies include:

  • Power Tools Bus services
  • Juldan Motors
  • Shalom Bus Services

Other Options

Taxis are available in Northern Plateau, although they are considerably expensive compared to other modes of transport. Additionally, renting a car is an excellent option for those who wish to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Northern Plateau

Getting around Northern Plateau is easy with the following options:

  • Renting a car
  • Taking a bus or taxi
  • Walking or cycling

Where to Go Next from Northern Plateau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Northern Plateau, here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Zambezi River
  • Victoria Falls
  • South Luangwa National Park
  • Bangweulu Swamps
  • Kafue National Park

Conclusion

Northern Plateau is a hidden gem in Zambia, with so much to offer visitors in terms of natural beauty and culture. From the lush vegetation to the friendly locals, there is so much to explore and discover in Northern Plateau. This guide provides comprehensive information to help you plan the perfect trip to this underrated destination. Enjoy your trip!



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