A boma dinner is a quintessential part of an authentic African safari, especially when staying in Victoria Falls as part of your Zimbabwe safari. Boma is a Swahili word for an enclosure and refers to the wall or fence that surrounds the area where people are dining (to protect them from any surprise visits from wildlife). It is characterized by a fire and the thrill of being exposed to the elements of the bush at night, and is a time for storytelling, dancing, drumming and enjoying delicious food and drinks with your fellow travellers.
What to expect from the Boma Dinner and Dance show
Dinner times are always a treat in Africa and one of the best dining experiences are to be had at The Boma in Victoria Falls. Zimbabwe traditional dishes including a wide selection of game meat and vegetables, are prepared over open flames and served in the most sublime setting.
It is a festive affair full of traditional music, dancing, drumming, food and entertainment with the senses tantalised with the sights, sounds and tastes of this Victoria Falls extravaganza. The evening starts off with a welcome ritual performed by traditional dancers. At the same time, guests’ faces are dotted and streaked with paint to signify the beauty of African women and the warrior look of African men.
The four-course feast of the Vic Falls Boma Dinner
Traditional dishes served on the Vic Falls boma dinner include mouth-watering specialities like peppered impala, smoked crocodile tail, Zambezi bream, sadza (a thick maize meal porridge) with a variety of sauces, indumba bean fritters and local organic produce. The dishes are prepared on an open fire, or a braai (barbecue), adding to the flavour and overall experience. Those feeling adventurous can indulge in sautéed mopane worm, a local delicacy harvested in Victoria Falls, and will be awarded a special certificate. Dessert is a delectable affair with a variety of sweet treats, including the traditional malva pudding (baked dessert) and koeksisters (syrup dough). The interactive drumming session, the only one in Victoria Falls Zimbabwe, takes place after dinner. Local musicians entice guests to participate, handing them djembe drums and teaching them a few rhythms. Once the beat gets going, everyone is up on their feet, dancing the African night away.
Towards the end of the festivities, an acapella group serenade guests as they toast yet another unforgettable day on safari in Africa.
Boma dinner on safari with Hideaways
At Hideaways we make enjoying the absolute best the wilds of Southern Africa have to offer possible through unrivalled hospitality and unique experiences. Having dinner at The Boma in Victoria Falls is one such experience. Add the dinner to any of our African safari packages that include Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe like the Botswana Wildlife Safari with Victoria Falls or the Hwange and Victoria Falls Safari that combine incredible game viewing with an adventure stop in Victoria Falls.
