Zambia

Zambia is a peaceful, sparsely-populated country in Southern Africa. Its size is about that of Texas. Languages spoken include English, Bemba, Tonga, Lozi, Lunda, Luvale, Kaonde, Nyanja, and Chewa. Most of these names correspond to that of an ethnic group in the country that speak it. Zambia also has a real mix of religious practices. Some traditions have been shielded from outside influence and modernization. Copper mining has traditionally helped support the economy, but it has become problematic, and today agriculture is more important.

Most of the country is on a high plateau, and there are also mountains and river valleys. The climate is mostly tropical, with some small semi-arid areas. The spotted hyena, the Nile crocodile, the hippopotamus, and an antelope called the lechwe are large animals that exist in Zambia outside of game parks. You could spend an entire vacation looking at the waterfalls of Zambia if you wanted. Victoria Falls are world-famous and were once described as Mosi-oa-Tunya meaning the smoke that thunders, but Kalambo Falls are the second-highest in Africa. It would behoove you to visit both, and there are over a dozen other falls in the country. The Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, on a farm in the bush, is a great place to see chimpanzees.

Rice, millet, and sorghum have traditionally been important grains. Other starches are cassava, maize, and sweet potatoes. Popular vegetables include tomatoes, mushrooms, cabbage, and varied leafy greens. Wild game, fish, and sour milk are commonly eaten. If you visit during the rainy season, try wild mushrooms in crushed or pounded peanuts. Some restaurants in Lusaka do have vegetarian items on their menus. Village Chicken is a special homemade dish with a free-range bird boiled for over four hours, then heated in a pot with Village Curry (turmeric), tomatoes, onions, and, if you’re lucky, green peppers. Natives sometimes brew their own beer on special occasions, so cross your fingers that your visit will be one of those!