Try one of the Zambian traditional tribal ceremonies. Few tourists go to these presently, but are becoming more popular each year.

The Bemba ceremony Mutombuko is one of many that happen throughout the year. This is one that I will try to fit in the next time around. www.chiefsofzambia.homestead.com/mutomboko.html

Luangwablondes,

That looks like a good one you posted. Are there any safari operators (not tour operators) you know of that arrange a visit?

Here is one more cultural experience that has been on my radar for some time now:

http://www.royalbarotsesafaris.com/package_Kuomboka.htm

This would combine well with someone wanting to be in Zambia for "Wild Dog Season" or to see the Shoebill Storks in the Bangweulu Swamps. Also, Victoria Falls would truly be The Smoke That Thunders in March/April rather than later in the year.

The only downside is that parks like Lower Zambezi, Kafue and North Luangwa would not yet be open, for the most part.

These would be fascinating.

Mutombuko takes place at the same time of the year every year-end of July, so you can make a plan to get there.

The Kuomboka takes place when the chief decides its a good time to change villages. Which could be anytime between Feb and April according to the variety of sources available. So overseas visitors don't stand much of a chance of seeing it. Pretty much the case for the vast majority of the ceremonies worth seeing.

One operator that may organize safaris there would be Shiwa Safaris.Basically whoever organises a safari with him first at that time.

Personally, If you had 3 or 4 people, I would hire a 4x4 with a driver and do a tour that included the ceremony, Kasanka, Bangweulu,Shiwa, NLNP,SLNP, and other interesting places. Not a lot a driving in between if you organise right and lots of good places to stay at.

For the horseback rider, there are some great places too. And if you have at least 3 weeks, do a canoe trip on the Zambezi. With 4 weeks you can get in 2 good ceremonies and VF easily.

If you are a camper and don't mind selfcatering, you wouldn't believe how inexpensive it gets. With 4 people for a 4 week holiday , less then what you spend for 6 days at Chiawa with the above places and activities.

Ive been in contact with Nickson at the Zambian Safari Company. This is the only itinerary or company for that matter that I could find with a trip exclusively for the Mutombuku.

Umutomboko 2007

www.chiefsofzambia.homestead.com/mutomboko.html


THE UMUTOMBOKO CEREMONY OF THE LUNDA PEOPLE OF LUAPULA VALLEY FROM 28TH TO 30TH JULY 2007

ITINERARY

FRIDAY, 28TH JULY 2007

We depart Lusaka at 07.00 hours for Kazembe to arrive at about 16.00 hours. With stop-overs at Luapula Bridge , Lake Bangweulu and Mansa for site-seeing lunch and refreshments. Arrive at Kazembe and join in the afternoon/evening festivities and celebrations. Transfer to accommodation in Kawambwa for diner and overnight.



SATURDAY, 29TH JULY 2007

Early breakfast, followed by a transfer to the Mwata’s palace to join in the morning rituals and festivities.

At about mid morning transfer to from the palace to Ntumba-Chushi Waterfalls for sightseeing followed by lunch here.

At 13.00 hours depart to the arena for the main event which will last until sun-set. Transfer to the Mwata’s palace or designated area for the evening come together (drinks on cash bar)

At 20.00 hours transfer party to Kawambwa for diner and over night



SUNDAY, 30TH JULY 2007

Early breakfast, continue sight seeing today and travel 2 hours by road to Lumangwe and Kalungwishi Rivers . Time permitting we may visit more than 2 waterfalls – picnic lunch by the waterfalls Return to Kawambwa for over night and accommodation.



MONDAY, 31st AUGUST 2007

Full breakfast, followed by a visit to the Chief’s palace to bid farewell and have pictures with the chief, and proceed back Lusaka with refreshment and stop-overs along the way. Arrive in Lusaka at Central Park at 17.00 hours


COST US $400.00 per person

To Include the following

• Return road transfers in a 60 seater coach (Marcopolo Scania coach or equivalent) from Lusaka to Kazambe return and we will use the same coach for excursions

• 3 nights accommodation in up market local guest houses with clean rooms, cold and hot showers on shared basis. Single occupancy will be charged at 30% of the above quoted rates.

• All meals such as all breakfast, lunches, diners and snacks in between meals.

• Sight seeing tours en-route and in the area and access fees

• Prime sitting spots during the main event, entry to the chiefs palace and a chance to meet the chief, have a chat with him and take picture with him.

• The trip will be guided and led by Mr Nickson Chilangwa

Luangwablondes have you been to this in Mfuwe? The Malaila Ceremony in October; it is held every year to honour past chiefs and commemorate an ancient battle.
sounds interesting....

The one time I was aware of the ceremony, I was stuck in a bush camp.

Also, Malaila ceremony has now become an annual event and is celebrated every second Saturday of September each year after the people have done their harvest. The ceremony of the Kunda people of Malambo in the Luangwa Valley near South Luangwa National Park is headed by Chieftainess Nsefu. It lasts for 2-3 days and involves alot of feasting and dancing. It is open to all kinds of visitors, and you can expect to see traditional dances paying tribute to ancestors in a traditional way.

That is the short story of it. Not one of the 'Big 5' ceremonies of Zambia, but worth a trip on Saturday if you are at SLNP, I have heard.

thanks luangwablondes!