Culture, Art, and Traditions

The Lunda tribe embodies the rich artistic and cultural legacy of the Lunda Empire, which spread widely across southern Africa and established numerous independent kingdoms. Their traditions reflect a blend of Bantu expansion influences and their own unique identity. Central to their heritage is the Mutomboko Ceremony, a celebration of triumphs and unity under Lunda leaders. This annual festival reenacts the tribe’s migration and settlement, showcasing dramatic artistic styles, traditional drumming, and storytelling.

The Lunda people are also renowned for their artistic styles found in wood carvings, pottery, and ceremonial regalia, which were historically linked to the political organization of the Lunda Empire. These objects often carry symbolic meanings tied to ancestral respect and their connection to river valleys and provinces closely tied to nature. Visitors can participate in workshops that highlight these traditions, offering hands-on insight into the craftsmanship of the Lunda artists living in rural areas.

Highlights

Hear the rhythmic drumming and melodic chants during the Mutomboko Ceremony, a dramatic reenactment of Lunda conquests.
Taste traditional Lunda meals featuring cassava-based nshima, wild game, and seasonal vegetables.
See the stunning artistry in wood carvings and pottery, originally carved to honor Lunda ancestors and leaders.
Feel the spiritual energy of the Lunda territory, exploring its ties to nature and its sacred river valleys.

Community support

Reasons to Visit

Exploring the Lunda tribe is a journey into the historical heart of Central Africa, where the legacy of the Lunda Empire remains alive in the rituals, art, and traditions of its people. The Mutomboko Ceremony, one of Zambia’s most iconic festivals, invites visitors to witness the reenactment of imperial boundaries being established and the celebration of the Lunda people's unity. This vibrant festival features traditional drumming, artistic styles, and ceremonial attire, offering a mesmerizing look into the tribe's history and beliefs.

Beyond the ceremony, travelers can explore the artistic and cultural achievements of the Lunda people, whose influence extends to western Zambia and beyond. Workshops on pottery, wood carving, and beadwork provide interactive opportunities to learn from local artisans. Engaging with Lunda traditional leaders and communities reveals their enduring connection to the upper Zambezi and Luangwa Valley landscapes, fostering an appreciation for their sustainable practices and communal spirit.

How to get Here

Location

Dos

Learn the intricacies of bead crafting, pottery making, and wood carving in workshops led by skilled artisans.
Join the lively Mutomboko Ceremony, celebrating the Lunda’s migration and cultural triumphs.
Enjoy traditional meals featuring cassava nshima, game meats, and local vegetables.
Explore Lunda villages and scenic river valleys, immersing yourself in daily life and their connection to nature.
Sit around the fire to hear Lunda leaders and elders share stories of the Lunda Empire’s legacy and its influence on modern Zambia.

Don'ts

Do not enter areas designated for rituals or the Mutomboko Ceremony without permission.
Always ask for consent before photographing people or sacred events.
Avoid interrupting storytelling sessions or neglecting traditional greetings.
Do not leave waste or disrupt the pristine environment surrounding the Lunda territory.
Refrain from making assumptions about the Lunda language, beliefs, or practices; instead, approach with curiosity and respect.