[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"dest-cat-experiences-in-africa-zambia-southern-choma":3},{"destination":4,"experiences":89,"events":90,"places":91,"hasNextPage":92},{"areaSquareKm":5,"bestTimeToVisit":6,"callingCode":7,"capitalCity":8,"code":8,"createdAt":9,"currency":8,"deletedAt":8,"description":10,"drivingSide":11,"electricity":12,"emergencyNumbers":13,"faq":23,"flag":8,"gettingAround":54,"government":55,"hasChildren":56,"healthInfo":57,"id":58,"images":59,"internal_type":67,"isFavourite":56,"bucketLists":68,"languages":69,"localCustoms":74,"name":75,"parent":76,"population":82,"safetyInfo":83,"slug":84,"status":85,"timezone":86,"type":87,"updatedAt":88,"visaInfo":8},"50","The best time to visit Choma is during the dry season (May to October) when temperatures are mild, and wildlife viewing is optimal. The Nc’wala Festival in February is a cultural highlight.","260",null,"2025-09-11T00:27:20.660Z","Choma, located in southern Zambia, is a vibrant town known for its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. It serves as the capital of the Southern Province and is a gateway to exploring the region's natural beauty. A highlight of Choma is the Choma Museum and Crafts Centre, which showcases the history and traditions of the Tonga people, including intricate crafts and artifacts. The town is also famous for its annual Nc’wala Festival, a colorful celebration of the Tonga harvest. Visitors can enjoy the scenic landscapes, including nearby Lochinvar National Park, known for its birdlife and wetlands. Choma offers a blend of urban convenience and rural charm, making it a unique stop for travelers seeking an authentic Zambian experience.","Left","Type D, G; 230V, 50Hz",[14,17,20],{"key":15,"value":16},"Police","999",{"key":18,"value":19},"Ambulance","992",{"key":21,"value":22},"Fire","993",[24,27,30,33,36,39,42,45,48,51],{"key":25,"value":26},"What is the etiquette for taking photos of locals in Choma?","Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas. Some may decline or expect a small tip.",{"key":28,"value":29},"Are there any local dishes I should try in Choma?","Yes, try nshima (a maize porridge) with local relishes like kapenta (small fish) or ifisashi (vegetables in peanut sauce).",{"key":31,"value":32},"Is bargaining common in Choma markets?","Yes, bargaining is expected in local markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile.",{"key":34,"value":35},"What should I wear to a traditional event like the Nc’wala Festival?","Wear modest, comfortable clothing. Bright colors are appreciated, and you might be offered traditional attire to join in.",{"key":37,"value":38},"How can I support sustainable tourism in Choma?","Buy locally made crafts, respect wildlife and natural sites, and avoid single-use plastics.",{"key":40,"value":41},"Are there any unique laws or traditions I should be aware of?","Avoid pointing with your finger; use your whole hand instead. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.",{"key":43,"value":44},"What’s the best way to experience local culture in Choma?","Visit the Choma Museum, attend a village ceremony, or participate in a community-based tourism project.",{"key":46,"value":47},"Can I drink tap water in Choma?","It’s safer to drink bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach upsets.",{"key":49,"value":50},"What’s the best way to greet someone in Choma?","A handshake with the right hand is common. Greet elders first and use polite titles like 'Ba' for men and 'Ma' for women.",{"key":52,"value":53},"Are there any money-saving tips for traveling in Choma?","Use minibuses for cheap transport, eat at local eateries, and stay in guesthouses or homestays.","Transportation in Choma includes minibuses, taxis, and motorcycle taxis (known as 'okadas'). Minibuses are the most common and affordable option, though they can be crowded. Taxis are more comfortable but pricier. Renting a car is also an option for exploring the surrounding areas.","Municipal Council",false,"Travelers to Choma should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria is prevalent, so antimalarial prophylaxis and mosquito repellent are recommended. Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.","c689d0d3-04bb-47be-821b-6652eb92e3b1",[60,61,62,63,64,65,66],"destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/0.jpg","destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/1.jpg","destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/2.jpg","destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/3.jpg","destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/4.jpg","destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/5.jpg","destinations/africa/zambia/southern/choma/6.jpg","CITY",[],[70,71,72,73],"Bemba","Tonga","English","Nyanja","Respect for elders is important in Tonga culture. Greetings are often lengthy and involve handshakes. When visiting homes or villages, it's polite to bring a small gift. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas.","Choma",{"id":77,"slug":78,"name":79,"images":8,"type":80,"internal_type":81,"flag":8,"parent":8},"8a70a027-e848-4ef2-a373-ae5324f415bb","africa-zambia-southern","Southern","Province","STATE","0.1 million","Choma is generally safe, but travelers should take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure. Petty crime can occur, so be vigilant in crowded areas.","africa-zambia-southern-choma",true,"Africa/Lusaka +02:00 (GMT)","city","2026-05-07T15:04:21.220Z",[],[],[],{"experience":56,"event":56,"place":56}]