Kuomboka

Kuomboka is the most famous festival in Zambia, which marks the end of the rainy season.
Because of the flooding of the Zambezi plains, the event, dubbed "one of the last major Southern African ceremonies," became required.

The ceremonial migration of the Lozi monarch (litunga) from his dry season home at Lealui to his rainy season palace at Limulunga is known as Kuomboka, which means "get out of the water." The litunga, dressed as a Victorian envoy, is escorted down the river by a flotilla of barges, complete with musical accompaniment and, of course, plenty of food.

It's a vibrant and thrilling event that draws thousands of visitors from all around the world to see Zambian culture at its best. The Kuomboka ceremony, which dates back over 300 years, is surrounded by fascinating tales and legends. The royal Maoma drums, which reverberate around the royal city the day before Kuomboka, precede it.

April is the ideal season to see numerous animals and birdlife near the swollen Luangwa River, and April to the end of May is the finest time to visit Zambia's Bangweulu Swamps for possible views of the elusive shoebill stork, black lechwe, and innumerable waterbirds.

Date: at the end of the rainy season (anytime from February to May)