Choma - Discovering Zambia

Travelling to Choma

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Choma, a pretty good destination in Zambia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Choma and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Choma, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zambia, here's everything to know about Choma for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Choma

Choma is a town located in the Southern Province of Zambia. It is the provincial capital and is situated about 185 kilometers south of Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia. Choma has a population of approximately 70,000 people and is known for its agricultural production, including maize, sugar cane, and livestock. The town is also a hub for transportation, serving as a junction for several major roads that connect it to neighboring towns and cities. Choma has a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, including the Choma Museum and Crafts Project, Lake Chipepe, and the historic railway station which is now a national monument.

What to visit in Choma

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Choma, Zambia: 1. Kalomo Hot Springs: Located about 30 km from Choma, Kalomo Hot Springs is a beautiful natural attraction where you can relax in the hot spring pools while enjoying the surrounding lush greenery. The hot springs are said to have healing properties and are rich in minerals like iron, sulfur, and calcium.
2. Choma Museum and Crafts Project: Choma Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Zambia's Southern Province. The museum features exhibits on traditional customs, artifacts, and local artists. It also has a crafts project where visitors can purchase beautiful handmade souvenirs.
3. Mukumi Park Game Ranch: Mukumi Park Game Ranch is home to a wide variety of African wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more. You can go on a game drive and observe these animals in their natural habitats. There are also hiking trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
4. Choma Lulamba Cultural Village: The Choma Lulamba Cultural Village is a living museum where you can learn about the traditional lifestyles and customs of the Tonga people. You can see how they cook, make baskets, weave, and even try their delightful local cuisine.
5. Lake Kariba: Although Lake Kariba is about an hour's drive from Choma, it is definitely worth a visit. The lake is enormous and offers a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. You can also take a sunset cruise and marvel at the stunning landscape.
I hope this helps with your trip planning to Choma!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zambia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Choma

The best time to visit Choma, Zambia is during the dry season which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is cooler and less humid, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities such as game drives and safari tours. The dry season also offers better wildlife viewing opportunities as the animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. However, if you're looking to see the Victoria Falls in full flow, it's best to visit during the wet season which runs from October to April.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Choma

Choma is located in the Southern Province of Zambia, and there are several ways you can get there: 1. By car: You can drive to Choma from Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, which is about a 3-4 hour journey depending on the traffic. You can also hire a car and a driver from a car rental company if you do not want to drive yourself.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services to Choma from Lusaka and other major cities in Zambia. Some popular bus companies include Mazhandu Family Bus Services, Juldan Motors, and Euro Bus.
3. By plane: The nearest major airport to Choma is Livingstone International Airport, which is located about 200 km away. You can fly to Livingstone from Lusaka or other major cities in Zambia, and then take a taxi or hire a car to drive to Choma.
4. By train: Zambia Railways operates a passenger train service between Livingstone and Lusaka, with a stop in Choma. However, train schedules are limited, and it may not be the most convenient mode of transport.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Choma, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Choma

Choma is a town located in Zambia and it is known for its traditional dishes. Here are some of the typical foods of Choma with a short description for each of them: 1. Nshima - This is a staple food in Zambia, made from maize flour and water. It is similar to stiff porridge and is often served with a side dish.
2. Impwa - Also known as the African Eggplant, this vegetable is commonly used in traditional Zambian dishes. It is usually cooked in a stew or relish with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
3. Kapenta - A type of small fish commonly found in the Zambezi and other rivers, kapenta is usually dried or smoked and then used in a variety of dishes, including stews and relishes.
4. Chikanda - Made from grated wild orchid tubers mixed with groundnuts (peanuts) and spices, chikanda is a popular snack food in Choma.
5. Chibwabwa - A type of pumpkin, chibwabwa is a popular vegetable used in stews and other dishes.
6. Ifisashi - A stew made from groundnuts, vegetables, and spices, ifisashi is a common meal in Choma.
7. Inswa - Also known as mopane worms, inswa are a type of edible caterpillar that is commonly eaten in Southern Africa. They are usually dried and then fried or boiled before being eaten.
8. Munkoyo - A traditional Zambian drink made from the roots of the munkoyo tree, this beverage is often served as a refreshing drink on hot days.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zambia here.

Is Choma an expensive destination for tourists?

Choma, Zambia is generally not considered an expensive destination for tourists. Accommodation, food and drinks are relatively affordable compared to other destinations. However, the cost of travel and tours may vary depending on the activities you choose to do. It's always recommended to do research and plan your budget accordingly before traveling to any destination.

Where to find accomodation in Choma

In Choma, it is best to find accommodation within the city center or along the Lusaka-Livingstone road for easy access to local attractions and amenities. Areas like Macha Road, Namwala Road, and Zambezi Drive have a good variety of lodges, hotels, and guesthouses. Moreover, some lodges and resorts are located close to beautiful natural sites such as Lake Kariba, providing a serene and scenic environment.
You can check hotel prices at Choma here:
Booking.com

Is Choma a safe destination for tourists?

Choma, Zambia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended to stay in well-lit and populated areas, not to carry large amounts of cash, and to be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is also important to follow the advice of local authorities and to respect local customs and traditions. Overall, Choma, Zambia is a beautiful destination with friendly people and a rich cultural heritage.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zambia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Choma.

What type of travelers will enjoy Choma the most?

Choma, Zambia offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. However, it is primarily a destination for families and couples who are interested in nature, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Families can enjoy visiting the Choma Museum and Craft Centre, which offers a great insight into the local history and culture. They can also go on safaris to explore the beautiful natural parks, national reserves, and wildlife. Some popular natural attractions to visit include Lake Kariba, Victoria Falls, and Kafue National Park.
Couples can take romantic walks through the lush forests or take a boat ride down the Zambezi River. They can also explore the various waterfalls, including the Victoria Falls, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Young people looking for fun may not find Choma to be their perfect destination. However, for those interested in outdoor activities, there are opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing that can be enjoyed with friends.
Overall, Choma is perfect for any traveler who is interested in nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

How to get around Choma

In Choma, there are few options available for transportation: 1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Choma. They can be hailed on the street or at a taxi rank. It is advisable to agree on a fare before embarking on the journey.
2. Minibuses: Minibuses are a common mode of public transportation in Choma. They operate on set routes and can be flagged down on the street.
3. Buses: Buses are available for longer distances outside of Choma. These are usually used for travelling to other towns in Zambia.
4. Car hire: Car rental services are available in Choma for those who prefer to drive themselves. It is advisable to check the condition of the vehicle before hiring it.
5. Walking: Walking is a viable option for short distances in Choma. The town is relatively small and most amenities are within walking distance.

What to see around Choma

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Choma, Zambia. Here are a few options: 1. Livingstone: This is a popular tourist destination located about 3 hours from Choma. It is home to the stunning Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world. You can also see wildlife at the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park or visit the Livingstone Museum.
2. Kafue National Park: This is one of the largest national parks in Africa and is located about 2 hours from Choma. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and many species of antelope.
3. Kalomo: This is a town located about 50 km from Choma. It is known for its beautiful scenery and offers several hiking trails, scenic drives and charming local markets.
4. Lusaka: Zambia's capital city, Lusaka, is located about 3 hours from Choma. It offers a vibrant city atmosphere, shopping malls, museums, and cultural sites to visit.
5. Lake Kariba: This is the largest man-made lake in the world and is located about 4 hours from Choma. It offers stunning views, fishing and boating activities and game viewing tours.
6. Chirundu: This is a town located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is known for its scenic drive and the spectacular Kariba Dam wall that spans the Zambezi river.
For every travel information about Zambia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.