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Besides a host of southern African safari adventures, high-adrenalin activities and must-see destinations, Zambia has a softer and enlightening side to offer the visitor.
Museums, markets and cultural showcases are found all over this interesting country if you know where to look.
The Railway Museum
Thanks to the high demand for Zambian timber all over the world, as well as a location on the edge of Victoria Falls, Zambia has a rich railway heritage.
Find out more about the country’s role in Dr. Livingston’s Cape to Cairo ambitions at The Railway Museum. The museum was officially opened in 1987 by Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and is located right alongside the town’s sawmill.
Because of the timber connection, the sawmill was once the site of a bustling railway station built entirely of timber. Today the site showcases the rise of the railway in Zambia and the important role that the sawmill played in this.
Here you’ll find what remains of some of the original Zambezi Rail locomotive and passenger cars. You’ll also hear fascinating stories about the perils of rail travel back in the day, including man-eating lions.
Children love to clamber aboard these old relics, while adults still find the guided tours of interest.
The Jewish Museum
Right alongside the Railway Museum, lies a reminder of the role of Livingstone’s Jewish community who arrived here in the 1890’s.
The photographic displays highlight how these resourceful people made a life for themselves from nothing. Fleeing persecution in Lithuania, these people made their way to Zambia via South Africa to become successful business people in Livingstone.
The Livingstone Museum
The largest and oldest museum is named after the town’s founder, Dr. David Livingstone. The museum was opened in 1934 and underwent an extensive revamp in 2003.
Today it showcases an amazing array of Dr. Livingstone’s personal effects. You can read his diary in its glass-enclosed case and see many of the items he collected during his travels. These displays offer an insight into what drove this remarkable man to explore so much of Africa as we know it.
Dip into Culture at Maramba
While it’s not strictly a historical showcase, you would do well to pop in to the Maramba Cultural Village while you’re in town. Here’s you’ll find excellent examples of local art and you may even catch a show by the resident Zambia National Dance Troupe.
Along with traditional song and dance displays, you can catch up with your curio shopping at one of the many stalls offering inexpensive hand-crafted items for sale.
Visit Zambia
With so much on offer, planning a trip to Zambia can be quite a feat. Work with us to craft a southern African itinerary that appeals to your interests.
