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Kasama

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City
—°2
Kasama (Zambia)
ℹ️

Practical info — Kasama

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Kasama is the regional hub for the Northern Circuit; it's a great base for exploring waterfalls.
  • Don't miss the spectacular Chishimba Falls, located just a short drive from the town center.
  • The Mwela Rock Paintings offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient history just east of the city.
  • Minibuses are the main form of local transport, but hiring a taxi for a day trip to the falls is often easier.

🍽 Food

🍽
Nshima and Kapenta

The Zambian staple meal; try it at the local restaurants in the central business district.

🍽
Village Chicken

A flavorful, free-range chicken dish often served with local greens.

🍽
Fresh Bream

Locally sourced fish, usually fried or stewed, available at traditional eateries.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Kasama Central Market

A bustling place to buy colorful Chitenge fabrics and fresh regional produce.

🛍
Craft Stalls

Look out for local wood carvings and woven baskets sold by artisans around town.

🧘
Chishimba Falls Nature Trails

The trails around the falls offer a peaceful environment surrounded by nature.

🧘
Mwela Rocks

A quiet, rocky landscape where you can enjoy tranquility and ancient art.

Kasama serves as the capital of the Northern Province in Zambia and is the administrative and commercial heart of the Bemba people. The city is perched on a central plateau at an elevation of roughly 1,300 meters, surrounded by a rolling landscape. Historically, Kasama gained international prominence at the conclusion of World War I, as it was the site of the final skirmishes between British and German forces before news of the armistice arrived. Nearby, the spectacular Chishimba Falls stand as a major landmark and hold great spiritual significance in local traditions. Kasama is a vital stop on the TAZARA railway line, providing a critical link between Zambia and the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. The regional economy is anchored in agriculture, with coffee, maize, and millet being the primary crops. The city features its own airport and is well-connected via the Great North Road. Furthermore, Kasama is a gateway for exploring ancient Stone Age rock art sites located in the surrounding hills.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212121201917171922252421
Rain mm268199185599434318106245

Geography

Population
179,636 (2026)
Coordinates
-10.21290, 31.18080

Facts

  • Provincial capital of Northern Zambia.
  • Elevated at approximately 1,300 meters.
  • Key station on the TAZARA international railway.
  • Site of the final World War I hostilities in 1918.
  • Famous for the nearby Chishimba Falls.
  • Central hub for the Bemba ethnic group.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kasama (2)

Archdiocese of Kasama📍 landmark

The Archdiocese of Kasama is a Catholic administrative center in Kasama, overseeing numerous parishes in the region.

Apostolic Vicariate of Bangueolo📍 landmark

The Apostolic Vicariate of Bangueolo in Kasama is a historic Catholic mission territory with its own church governance.

Frequently asked questions

What characterizes Kasama?
It is the administrative center of Zambia's Northern Province.
Are there nature attractions nearby?
Yes, there are waterfalls and scenic areas in the surroundings.
Is Kasama heavily visited by tourists?
No, it is rather an under-the-radar destination for travelers off the beaten track.
How do you get there?
Via the main road or the local airport.
What is the best time to visit?
The dry season between May and October features the best visibility.
Kasama: where is it located?
Kasama is located in Zambia.
Kasama: what is there to see?
Highlights include Archdiocese of Kasama, Apostolic Vicariate of Bangueolo.
Kasama: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Aug, Sep.
Kasama: why is it worth visiting?
Kasama serves as the capital of the Northern Province in Zambia and is the administrative and commercial heart of the Bemba people.
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