The Mukuni Immerse: A Living Village Experience
Live the Story, Not Just Hear It.
The Philosophy & Core Concept
The Mukuni Immerse is not a tour; it is an invitation. It is a carefully facilitated, yet intentionally unscripted, opportunity to step into the daily rhythm of life in Mukuni Village, home to the Leya people for over 700 years. We move beyond observation to participation, replacing schedules with spontaneity and tourist transactions with genuine human connection.
This experience is built on three pillars:
We offer a real glimpse into village life, not a performed cultural show.
We facilitate meaningful interaction between guests and the community.
A significant portion of your fee goes directly to your host family and a community development fund.
Who Is This For?
This experience is designed for the traveller who:
- Seeks deep, meaningful cultural exchange over superficial sightseeing.
- Is adaptable, curious, and possesses a willing spirit.
- Values human stories and connections.
- Travels responsibly and wants their visit to have a positive impact.
- Is physically capable of light manual activity and gentle hiking.
Please Note: This experience involves basic amenities and an unstructured schedule. It is not suitable for those requiring rigid itineraries, luxury accommodations, or complete privacy.
Experience Mukuni Village
What's Included & Not Included
What's Included:
- Accommodation in a traditional thatched-roof hut within a family homestead
- All meals (authentic Zambian cuisine prepared by your host family)
- Bottled water throughout your stay
- Dedicated English-speaking guide from the community
- All activities and participation in daily village life
- Community fees and contribution to the Mukuni Chiefdom
What's Not Included:
- Travel/Medical Insurance
- Gratuities for your guide and host family
- Personal purchases (e.g., crafts from local artisans)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Visas for Zambia
Detailed Itinerary: The Flow of Days
Your experience will be unique, but this outlines the typical structure.
Day 1: The Welcome & Integration
3:00 PM: Meet your dedicated guide at the pre-arranged meeting point. Welcome and orientation briefing.
3:30 PM: Walk to your host family's homestead. Introduction to the family and settling into your hut.
Late Afternoon: Immersion begins with simple tasks: fetching water, shelling peanuts, or preparing vegetables.
Evening: Share your first home-cooked meal with the family. Time for conversation and stories.
Day 2: Living the Rhythm
Morning (Pre-Dawn): Gentle hike to a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunrise over the village.
Breakfast: Return to the homestead for a simple breakfast.
Daytime: Your day to live, not tour. Activities may include helping in the fields, domestic tasks, cultural learning, or community interaction.
Evening: Another shared meal and time for reflection. Learn traditional songs or listen to folklore.
Day 3 (For 2-Night Option): The Farewell
Morning: After breakfast, perhaps one final task with the family.
Late Morning: Heartfelt farewell ceremony with your host family. Return to the meeting point.
Accommodation & Meals
Your Hut: Constructed in traditional style with mud walls and thatched grass roof. Equipped with a comfortable bed, mosquito net, and solar-powered lighting.
Bathroom Facilities: Private, clean long-drop toilet and bucket shower enclosure with heated water.
Meals: Authentic Zambian cuisine prepared hygienically using local ingredients. The staple is nshima served with various relishes. Please communicate dietary restrictions when booking.
Practical Information
What to Pack: Modest, respectful clothing; sturdy footwear; headlamp; refillable water bottle; biodegradable toiletries; sunscreen; insect repellent.
Health & Safety: The village is very safe. Your guide is first-aid trained. Medical facilities are in Livingstone for emergencies. Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
Cultural Etiquette: Ask before taking photos; dress modestly; use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items; be open and respectful.
Pricing & Booking
How to Book:
Due to the intimate nature of this experience, spaces are extremely limited and require advance booking.
Inquire
Contact us with your preferred dates and questions
Confirm & Pay
We'll confirm availability and provide payment details
Prepare
Receive pre-departure guide with all necessary information
Cancellation Policy: Full refund 15+ days prior, 50% refund 7-14 days prior, no refund <7 days prior.
Book The Mukuni Immerse
Thank You for Your Booking Request!
We have received your inquiry for The Mukuni Immerse and will contact you within 24 hours to confirm your cultural experience.
Your request has been sent to info@tubasafaris.com and etikensital@gmail.com