Zambia · Village Tours

3-Hour Mukuni Village Tour from Livingstone with Leya Culture

3 Hours Round trip from Livingstone Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Enjoy a warm and traditional welcome ceremony
02 Learn about different community members' unique beliefs, social structure, and roles
03 Witness or even try your hand at traditional craft-making
04 Experience the vibrant rhythms and dances of the Leya people
05 Taste traditional Zambian dishes, giving you a glimpse of the local flavours

Experience the daily lives, traditions, and customs of the Leya people on this cultural visit to Mukuni Village near Livingstone. Meet local community members, see traditional homes, and gain insight into the village's history, social structure, and way of life. Enjoy a warm traditional welcome, experience the vibrant rhythms and dances of the Leya people, and witness traditional craft-making with local artisans.

Upon arrival at Mukuni Village, you'll be greeted with a traditional welcome dance by the village's local guides.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

City Livingstone

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Mukuni Village Cultural Experience

Your local guide will pick you up from your hotel in Livingstone and take you to Mukuni Village, located just 10 km from Livingstone town.
Upon arrival at Mukuni Village, you'll be greeted with a traditional welcome dance by the village's local guides. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the village's history, traditions, and way of life.
Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the village, where you will see traditional homes and craft markets and learn about the daily lives of the Leya people. You'll also have the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions.
After the village tour, you can participate in craft-making with the local artisans. You can try your hand at making traditional crafts such as baskets, pottery, and wooden carvings. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about traditional Zambian crafts and take home a unique souvenir.
After the Mukuni Village tour, your guide will take you back to your hotel in Livingstone, where you can reflect on the experiences of the day and share your newfound knowledge of Zambian culture with others.

Where this trip takes you

Mukuni Village, Livingstone, traditional homes, craft markets

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Livingstone 1 city · 3 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Livingstone
Transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
Professional guide and driver
Guided walking tour of Mukuni Village, led by a knowledgeable local guide
Traditional greeting and hand-washing ceremony
Visits to local homes and meetings with villagers
Cultural performances, including traditional dancing and singing
Opportunity to learn about the customs and traditions of the Leya people
Opportunity to purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs at the village market
A portion of the tour fee is typically donated to the village community to support local initiatives
Bottled water

What's Not Included

Gratuities for the guide and any other staff members - while tipping is not mandatory, it is customary to tip the guide and any other staff members at the end of the tour to show appreciation for their services.
Personal expenses, including any additional activities, souvenirs, or items purchased during the tour that are not included in the tour package price.
Travel insurance - while not mandatory, it is recommended that you purchase travel insurance before embarking on the tour to cover any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies that may arise.

What to bring

Comfortable clothing: Wear lightweight, breathable, and modest clothing. Avoid revealing or offensive attire to show respect for the local customs and culture.
Sun protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the African sun.
Insect repellent: To avoid insect bites, especially in the evening, carry mosquito repellent containing DEET or a suitable alternative.
Comfortable footwear: Opt for sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain during the village tour.
Water and snacks: Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and pack some non-perishable snacks for energy during the tour.
Cash: Bring some local currency in small denominations for purchasing handicrafts or contributing to the community, as credit card facilities might be limited.
Camera and binoculars: Capture the region's moments and beautiful landscapes. Binoculars can be handy for birdwatching if you're interested.
Respectful gifts: If you wish to offer gifts to the community, consider bringing educational materials, school supplies, or practical items instead of candies or sweets.
Notebook and pen: Taking notes or jotting down observations during the tour can help you remember the insights gained.
Respectful attitude: Most importantly, bring an open mind, respect, and a willingness to learn about the local culture and customs. Remember that you are a guest in the village, and being respectful and considerate is of utmost importance.

Know before you go

Respectful behaviour: Research and familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions of the Leya people. Understanding and respecting their way of life is crucial to having a positive and meaningful experience.
Health precautions: Check with your healthcare provider or travel clinic for necessary vaccinations or health precautions for travelling to Zambia. It's also essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Visa and travel documents: Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months' validity from your travel dates. Check the visa requirements for Zambia and obtain the necessary visa before your departure.
Currency and payments: Familiarize yourself with the local currency, the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). Bring enough cash in small denominations for your expenses, as credit card facilities may be limited in the village.
Language: While English is the official language of Zambia, some villagers in Mukuni might primarily speak their local language, such as Toka-Leya. Learning a few basic phrases or greetings in the local language can be appreciated by the locals.
Photography and respect for privacy: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their belongings. Some communities may have specific rules about photography, and respecting their privacy and wishes is essential.
Pack accordingly: Bring appropriate clothing for the climate, which is generally warm, especially during the summer months. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
Local etiquette: Learn about the do's and don'ts of interacting with the local community. For example, using your right hand for greetings and eating is considered respectful, while the left hand is traditionally reserved for personal hygiene purposes.
Conservation and environmental awareness: Be mindful of the environment and the impact of your actions on the delicate ecosystem around Victoria Falls. Avoid littering and support eco-friendly initiatives.
Cultural sensitivity: Be open-minded and sensitive to cultural differences. Avoid discussing sensitive topics or engaging in behaviour that might be inappropriate or offensive to the local community.