Livingstone , Zambia

Mukuni Traditional Village Tour

Active

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Chief Mukuni invites visitors to his village, home to the Leya people. This is a unique opportunity to see how the local people live in a working village, not one built for tourists.

A member of the village will show you around and you can see how traditional huts are built and decorated. Take a look inside, meet the residents and see the locals at work.e.

Dr David Livingstone visited this village on more than one occasion, sitting under a giant mango tree in the middle of the square, to meet with the current chief.

As the Chief viewed David Livingstone as an unbeliever, he was not allowed into the chief’s compound. It was also two men from this village, long time retainers of David Livingstone, who carried his body all the way to the coast after he died near Lake Bangweulu. The descendants of these men still live in the village.

Available options

Mukuni Traditional Village Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Return transfers from Hotels/Lodges within Livingstone

Services of a Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Chief Mukuni's Village is a Royal village which was founded around the 13th Century. It is home to about 7,000 Leya people. The chief has invited visitors into his village to get a glimpse of how his people have lived for generations and to learn a little about their traditional customs and beliefs.

The Chief’s guides and the people of the village are more than happy to show visitors their huts. They will show you inside, explain how they are built and decorated, introduce you to various craftsmen and women at work and ask you to taste some traditional foods and beer.

This is a working village, not a purpose built tourist attraction, and it is a privilege to be welcomed into their lifestyle.

What's not included

Items of Personal Nature

VISA and Passports

Tips and any Social Assistance

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Livingstone

Livingstone is a vibrant town in Zambia, famous as the gateway to the magnificent Victoria Falls. Known as the 'Adventure Capital of Africa,' it offers a wealth of adrenaline-pumping activities and cultural experiences. The town's colonial charm and proximity to one of the world's natural wonders make it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Victoria Falls

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, is a breathtaking waterfall on the Zambezi River. It offers stunning views and a range of adventure activities.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

This national park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including elephants, giraffes, and a variety of bird species. It also provides a scenic drive and walking trails.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate

Livingstone Museum

The Livingstone Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Zambia, with exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and the history of the region. It's a great place to learn about the local heritage.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget

Zambezi River Cruises

A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River offers a unique opportunity to see wildlife, such as hippos and crocodiles, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It's a relaxing way to end the day.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive

Adventure Activities

Livingstone is famous for its adventure activities, including white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and microlight flights. These activities offer an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective of the falls and the Zambezi River.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Nshima with Relish

Nshima is a staple food made from maize meal, served with a variety of relishes such as vegetables, beans, or meat. It's a must-try Zambian dish.

Main Course Vegetarian options available.

Kapenta

Dried small fish from Lake Kariba, usually fried and served as a snack or with nshima.

Snack Contains fish.

Ifisashi

A traditional dish made from cassava leaves cooked with groundnuts and served with nshima.

Main Course Vegetarian.

Chikanda

A traditional Zambian dish made from wild orchid tubers, ground into a paste and mixed with peanuts or vegetables.

Snack Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

White-water rafting Bungee jumping Microlight flights Ziplining Canoeing Zambezi River cruises Spa treatments Sunset views at Victoria Falls

Best Time to Visit

May to October

The best time to visit Livingstone is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The falls are at their most spectacular during this period, and wildlife viewing is excellent.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, Lozi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Livingstone is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Livingstone Railway Station

By bus

Livingstone Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Public transport is affordable and widely available, but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long distances.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Café City Maramba Mosi-oa-Tunya Road

Day trips

Zambezi National Park

30 km from Livingstone • Full day

Zambezi National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including elephants, giraffes, and a variety of bird species. It's a great place for a safari experience.

Mukuni Village

20 km from Livingstone • Half day

Mukuni Village offers a glimpse into traditional Zambian life. Visitors can learn about local customs, see traditional dances, and even participate in craft-making.

Zambezi River Canoeing

10 km from Livingstone • Full day

Canoeing on the Zambezi River offers a unique perspective of the river and its wildlife. It's a peaceful and scenic way to spend a day.

Festivals

Victoria Falls Waterfront Festival • August Livingstone Marathon • July Zambezi Music Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit Victoria Falls at sunrise for a magical experience with fewer crowds.
Book adventure activities in advance, especially during peak season.
Hire a local guide for a more informative and enjoyable experience.
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered water to reduce plastic waste.
Learn a few basic phrases in local languages to enhance your cultural experience.