Mpika - Discovering Zambia

Travelling to Mpika

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mpika, 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 Mpika 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 Mpika, 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 Mpika for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mpika

Mpika is a town located in the northern part of Zambia, near the southern end of the Great Rift Valley. It is the administrative center of Mpika District and is known for its diverse cultural heritage and unique natural scenery. The town boasts a population of around 18,000 people and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, hotels, and other amenities for travelers. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and lush forests, and is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Some of the main attractions in the area include the North Luangwa National Park, the Chisomo Safari Camp, and the Kapishya Hot Springs.

What to visit in Mpika

Mpika is a town located in the Northern Province of Zambia, and it has several tourist attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the popular tourist attractions of Mpika are: 1. Shiwa Ng'andu Estate: This is a beautiful English-style mansion located in the heart of the Zambian bush. This estate was built by Sir Stewart Gore-Brown in the 1920s, and it is now open to visitors. The estate offers a glimpse into Zambia's colonial past and the lifestyle of the early explorers.
2. Mpika Mosque: This mosque is one of the oldest buildings in Mpika and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture in Northern Zambia. Visitors can admire the intricate design of the mosque's exterior and experience the peacefulness of the mosque's interior.
3. Mweru Wantipa National Park: This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. Visitors can take game drives and guided tours to see the wildlife up close.
4. Chimpempe Eco Lodge: This lodge is located in an eco-friendly environment and offers visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Zambian bush in a sustainable way. The lodge offers several activities such as birdwatching, guided nature walks, and fishing.
5. Chishimba Falls: These beautiful falls are located approximately 50km from Mpika town and are a popular destination for visitors. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and are a great spot for picnics and relaxation.
6. Kundabwika Falls: These falls are located approximately 20km from Mpika town and offer visitors a chance to enjoy beautiful scenery, swim in the natural pools, and take a picnic.
7. Mpika Central Market: This market is a great place for visitors to experience local culture and buy souvenirs. The market is bustling with activity, and visitors can find a variety of goods such as fresh produce, crafts, and clothing.
In summary, Mpika offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to enjoy, from exploring historic estates and mosques to admiring the natural beauty of the falls and wildlife. Visitors can have a fulfilling experience in this part of Zambia.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mpika.

When to go on holiday to Mpika

The best time to visit Mpika in Zambia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the game viewing is excellent, making it a great time for a safari trip or to explore the various nature reserves in the area. The wet season, which lasts from November to April, can be quite humid and rainy, with some of the roads becoming difficult to navigate. Therefore, it's best to plan your trip during the dry season to avoid any inconveniences.

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

How to get to Mpika

To get to Mpika, Zambia, you would first need to fly into the nearest international airport, which is Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Mpika Airport or hire a car and drive to Mpika. It's a bit of a journey by car, as it's over 500km from Lusaka to Mpika, but the drive will take you through some stunning countryside so it's worth the effort. There are also a number of bus companies that operate routes to Mpika from Lusaka, but the journey can take up to 10 hours depending on the route and the traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mpika, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mpika

Mpika is a small town in the Northern Province of Zambia known for its unique cuisine. Here are some typical foods found in Mpika with a short description of each: 1. Chikanda - also known as African Polony, is a dish made from pounded groundnuts, cassava leaves, and other spices. It is a popular snack in Mpika and other parts of Zambia.
2. Nshima - is a staple food in Zambia made from maize meal and water. It has a consistency of mashed potatoes and is typically eaten with a stew or relish.
3. Kapenta - is a type of small freshwater fish that is found in the Zambezi River. It is typically dried or salted and is often used as a flavoring in stews or eaten as a snack.
4. Ifisashi - is a vegetable stew made from ground peanuts, vegetables such as pumpkin or sweet potato leaves, and sometimes meat or fish. It is served with nshima.
5. Munkoyo - is a traditional thirst quencher made from boiled maize or sorghum meal, which is then mixed with water and sweetened with sugar. It is popular beverage in Mpika.
6. Chibwabwa - is a popular vegetable in Mpika, also known as pumpkin leaves. They are high in nutrients and can be cooked in stews or steamed and eaten with other vegetables. 7. Chimbuya - also known as sweet potato leaves, are often used in Zambian cuisine in stews, soups, and other mixed dishes. 8. Bream – Known as “kapenta”, this fish is quite popular in Mpika, and is often fried or cooked into a traditional stew.
9. Impwa – This vegetable is similar to an eggplant in texture, and is often boiled or fried as a side dish.
10. Mubi – This is a type of cassava, which is widely consumed across Zambia. It is often boiled and served with stew or used to make flour for nshima.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zambia here.

Is Mpika an expensive destination for tourists?

Mpika is not known to be a major tourist destination within Zambia, but it serves as a convenient stopover for those traveling to or from the Northern Province or Luangwa Valley. The cost of traveling to Mpika largely depends on individual budgets and preferences, as well as the season of travel. Generally, the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation in Mpika is relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in Zambia. However, the cost of visiting nearby national parks such as Kasanka National Park or North Luangwa National Park may be relatively higher due to park fees and game drive costs. Overall, the cost of traveling to Mpika will vary depending on individual needs and the type of experience one desires.

Where to find accomodation in Mpika

The best areas to find accommodations to visit Mpika in Zambia are usually around the town center and along the major roads that lead in and out of the town. Some popular spots include the Great North Road, which is a major transport artery in the region, and the nearby Mporokoso District. There are a variety of accommodation options available in Mpika, including hotels, lodges, and guesthouses. It is advisable to book early and check online reviews to choose the best accommodation for your needs and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Mpika here:
Booking.com

Is Mpika a safe destination for tourists?

Mpika, Zambia is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and keep safety in mind at all times. It is recommended to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas, especially at night, and to be aware of your surroundings. It is also important to take precautions to prevent theft, such as using a money belt or keeping valuables out of sight. Overall, Mpika is a beautiful and exciting destination, but it is always wise to be careful and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
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 Mpika.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mpika the most?

Mpika, Zambia is a great destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the local cultures. It is a perfect place for families, couples, and solo travelers who love the wildebeest migration, game drives, and bird watching. The young visitors who want to explore the natural terrain, river canoes, and interacting with the wildlife will also love it here. In summary, Mpika is an ideal destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure.

How to get around Mpika

In Mpika, the most common modes of transportation are public buses and taxis. There are also motorcycle taxis or "boda bodas" available for short trips around town. However, it is recommended to hire a private 4x4 vehicle for exploring the surrounding national parks or for long-distance travel.

What to see around Mpika

Sure, here are some options for day trips from Mpika in Zambia: 1. Shiwa Ng'andu: This is a historic estate with a mansion and beautiful gardens with colonial-style architecture. It is a good location for a relaxing picnic or a stroll through the gardens.
2. North Luangwa National Park: This is a perfect location for wildlife lovers and is famous for its diversity of animal species like elephants, lions, crocodiles, and buffalos. Visitors can take guided game walks to explore the park in a safe manner.
3. Kasanka National Park: It is home to the largest mammal migration in the world. Kasanka National Park is famous for the annual bat migration which is spectacular. During the migratory season, millions of fruit bats descend into the swamp forests.
4. Chishimba Falls: A beautiful waterfall located in Kasama town (about 120 km from Mpika). Visitors can relax and enjoy the scenic view of the waterfall or take a swim in the fresh water.
5. Bangweulu Wetlands: This is a unique destination with a lot of bird species for bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts. The wetlands offer an incredible variety of wildlife, including the endemic black lechwe antelope.
I hope this list helps!
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