10 Amazing Year-Round Things to Do in Kabwe Zambia

Key Takeaways:

• Kabwe is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful city with off-the-beaten-path experiences available every season.

• From ancient sites to vibrant markets and nearby nature reserves, Kabwe offers a unique blend of history and eco-tourism.

• Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or community art, Kabwe is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking something authentic.

Located in Zambia’s Central Province, Kabwe—formerly known as Broken Hill—is a city with deep roots in mining, colonial history, and prehistory. It was once one of the country’s most important industrial hubs and is famously the site where the “Broken Hill Man” (an early human skull fossil) was discovered in 1921. This blend of scientific legacy, urban energy, and surrounding natural beauty makes Kabwe a fascinating year-round destination.

Today, Kabwe is undergoing a cultural and environmental renaissance. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring the heart of Zambia. From lively markets to ancient caves and scenic wildlife spots, the city offers travelers a unique mix of education, adventure, and real local flavor—no matter what time of year you visit.

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Iconic Broken Hill Man Monument and Site

2. Hike and Picnic at Lukanga Swamp Viewing Points

3. Visit Kabwe Golf Club for Scenic Greens and Local Flavor

4. Shop for Traditional Crafts at Kabwe Main Market

5. Learn Local History at the Railway Museum

6. Discover the Mita Hills Dam and Water Sports

7. Hike the Rocky Trails of Mulungushi Hills

8. Experience Local Music at Weekend Open-Air Shows

9. Visit the Jacaranda-Lined Streets During Bloom Season

10. Volunteer or Tour a Community Art and Education Project

1. Explore the Iconic Broken Hill Man Monument and Site

One of Kabwe’s most historically important sites is the place where the Broken Hill Man skull was discovered—an early Homo heidelbergensis fossil that placed Kabwe on the global anthropological map. Though the original skull is now in London’s Natural History Museum, a monument stands in its honor, and there are ongoing calls for its return. Visiting the site gives travelers a chance to connect with the city’s global significance and understand its deep historical roots.

The monument area is accessible year-round and is an ideal place for reflection, photography, and learning. Local guides and teachers often share the story behind the discovery and its importance to human history. For those who enjoy science and archaeology, this is a powerful starting point to explore Kabwe’s legacy.

2. Hike and Picnic at Lukanga Swamp Viewing Points

Located west of Kabwe, Lukanga Swamp is one of Zambia’s most important wetlands, teeming with birdlife, fish, and seasonal floodplains. While much of the swamp is marshy and accessed by canoe or boat, there are nearby elevated areas with hiking paths that offer stunning panoramic views over the ecosystem.

A short drive from the city, these natural lookouts are perfect for an early morning or late afternoon picnic. It’s a peaceful year-round escape from the city’s bustle where you can spot herons, fish eagles, and even hippos in the distance. If you’re lucky, you’ll also cross paths with traditional fishermen in dugout canoes.

3. Visit Kabwe Golf Club for Scenic Greens and Local Flavor

Established during the colonial era, the Kabwe Golf Club is more than just a spot to tee off—it’s a local hub for socializing, relaxing, and enjoying one of Zambia’s oldest golf courses. The lush fairways contrast beautifully with Kabwe’s dry terrain, making it a refreshing retreat right in the city.

Even if you don’t golf, the clubhouse restaurant and bar are open to visitors, and events are frequently held here, including live music nights and charity tournaments. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming year-round, making it a great spot to meet locals or simply soak up some green space.

4. Shop for Traditional Crafts at Kabwe Main Market

Kabwe Main Market is a vibrant, bustling place where locals shop for everything from handmade baskets to fresh produce and brightly colored chitenge fabrics. The market is open daily and truly comes alive on weekends when vendors from surrounding villages come to sell goods, creating a lively mix of sound, color, and commerce.

You can find traditional wooden carvings, woven mats, and jewelry—perfect for souvenirs or gifts. The market is not only a shopper’s paradise but a cultural immersion where you can interact with vendors and learn about their crafts. It’s a year-round favorite for travelers who love authentic experiences.

5. Learn Local History at the Railway Museum

Located at Kabwe’s historic train station, the Railway Museum is a small but fascinating stop that tells the story of Zambia’s rail network—once the backbone of Central Province industry. Inside, you’ll find preserved locomotives, historical maps, colonial-era tools, and displays about the people who built and worked along the railway lines.

The museum is open throughout the year and is especially good for visitors looking to understand Kabwe’s rise during the mining boom. It’s a quiet, informative way to spend a morning or afternoon, and there are often railway staff or locals who are happy to share stories that bring the exhibits to life.

6. Discover the Mita Hills Dam and Water Sports

Just about 40 minutes from Kabwe, Mita Hills Dam offers a scenic escape with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating. The dam’s calm waters and surrounding hills provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day trip or weekend stay. Local lodges near the reservoir offer rentals, picnic setups, and guided fishing excursions.

Mita Hills is great year-round, but particularly enjoyable during the dry season when skies are clear and waters are calm. Many locals use this spot to escape the city heat or celebrate special occasions. Whether you’re looking to try a new sport or simply enjoy a peaceful lakeside lunch, this destination delivers.

7. Hike the Rocky Trails of Mulungushi Hills

If you’re craving a bit of elevation and nature, the Mulungushi Hills provide hiking routes with views over Kabwe’s landscape and lush terrain after the rains. These hills also have deep historical roots as a meeting point for Zambia’s independence movement, adding cultural weight to their natural appeal.

The trails are open all year, but the greenery is most vibrant between January and April. Hikers enjoy spotting native flora and birds, with cool breezes that make the climbs enjoyable. Be sure to bring water, a camera, and possibly a guide if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain—it’s a rewarding adventure off the tourist radar.

8. Experience Local Music at Weekend Open-Air Shows

Kabwe’s music scene is grassroots and authentic, with open-air performances happening most weekends across neighborhoods and bars. These gatherings blend traditional beats, Afro-pop, gospel, and spoken word, often hosted in makeshift stages or beer gardens. Whether it’s a local artist debuting a single or a reggae band jamming through the night, the vibe is always communal and high-energy.

Ask around town or check local bulletin boards—events aren’t always advertised online. These shows happen all year and are a fantastic way to connect with the community, dance, and support homegrown talent. Just show up, order a local Mosi beer, and let the rhythms carry you.

9. Visit the Jacaranda-Lined Streets During Bloom Season

While it’s a seasonal event, Jacaranda bloom season (typically around September to October) transforms Kabwe’s streets into a dreamy tunnel of purple petals. These iconic trees line major roads and parks, creating one of the city’s most photogenic times of the year.

Even outside the bloom window, the tree-lined streets are a lovely place to walk or cycle, with shady paths and laid-back cafés nearby. For visitors in the right season, it’s a natural spectacle that adds magic to morning walks or evening drives. Bring your camera—it’s an underrated highlight of the city.

10. Volunteer or Tour a Community Art and Education Project

Kabwe is home to several grassroots initiatives that welcome travelers to learn, contribute, or just visit for cultural exchange. Organizations like Lubuto Library Project or local youth centers often run art workshops, reading programs, and skills development events. These places offer real insight into life in Kabwe beyond the tourist lens.

Many of these programs operate year-round and appreciate visitors who show up with curiosity and kindness. Whether you volunteer your time or just attend a storytelling session or craft day, these experiences offer meaningful connections with the local community. It’s travel that gives back—and leaves a deeper impression.

What to do if you have kids?

Kabwe is a surprisingly family-friendly city with plenty of outdoor spaces and safe community hangouts. Kids love the Railway Museum for its real trains and interactive displays, and Mita Hills offers safe swimming and paddle activities. Many parks and lodge properties around the outskirts offer clean, open spaces for running, playing, or picnicking. During weekends, markets and music events often have snacks and entertainment that appeal to young visitors. With warm, welcoming locals and lots of nature access, Kabwe is a great place to slow down and explore as a family.

Where can I find free events in Kabwe Zambia taking place this weekend?

To discover fun and free events happening in Kabwe, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. This AI-powered platform curates the most relevant happenings in your city, from live music and cultural fairs to open mic nights and walking tours. It’s perfect for travelers and locals who want to explore without spending hours searching or overspending. Whether you’re into art, food, wellness, or community gatherings, PlanMyWeekend shows you what’s on with just one click—no alcohol or clubbing required.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Kabwe

Kabwe is one of Zambia’s most under-the-radar destinations, offering a rich combination of history, culture, and natural beauty that’s accessible all year long. From the powerful story of the Broken Hill Man to its blooming jacaranda trees and lakeside escapes, the city invites you to experience Zambia in a deeper, more authentic way. Whether you’re here for a few days or passing through the Central Province, take the time to explore Kabwe’s hidden gems—you’ll leave with stories, smiles, and a stronger connection to the heart of the country.