A night at the Boma in Vic Falls
TOURISTS from across the globe, united by a desire for adventure and relaxation, settle into the exotic ambiance of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the Zambezi National Park, an enticing prospect awaits them: a captivating evening at the Boma, a traditional dining experience brimming with African culture and culinary delights.
The Boma, meaning “enclosure” in Swahili, transports guests to a bygone era, traditional fabrics, vibrant and colourful, are offered for guests to adorn themselves with, adding a touch of local flair to the evening.
As they settle around the crackling bonfire, the rhythmic beat of drums fills the air, setting the stage for a night of unforgettable entertainment.
The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly the African feast itself. A symphony of flavours unfolds as guests are presented with a selection of authentic dishes, each a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Sadza, a staple starch made from cornmeal, forms the base for many dishes, accompanied by an array of game stews.
Mopane worms, a local delicacy, offer a unique and adventurous culinary experience for the curious palate.
Beyond the food, the Boma comes alive with the vibrant energy of traditional dance performances, skilled dancers, adorned in colourful attire, showcase the rich tapestry of African culture through their captivating movements and infectious enthusiasm, the rhythmic beats and graceful steps weave a spellbinding narrative, drawing guests deeper into the heart of the continent's vibrant artistic soul.
Africa Albida Tourism sales and marketing co-ordinator Lookout Ndlovu said the Boma gives tourists a taste of the local culture from the activities to the cuisine.
“We want to give guests a unique authentic African dining and drumming experience. At Boma, you are welcomed by traditional dancers, and inside you get to indulge in our African cuisine.
“We have face painting for every guest, drumming and there is also a traditional healer or fortune teller on sight with his hut stationed inside the Boma,” Ndlovu said.
He noted that the cuisine is prepared using fire, which gives the guests the village or traditional setup with cutlery used as enamel cups.
“We serve traditional beer, and the variety of food are local delicacies like Mopani worms that are harvested locally, and we also serve game stews,” Ndlovu said.
The time spent at Boma is unforgettable. Before being led to their table, guests get a traditional face painting and receive a vibrant African gown upon arrival.
A platter of appetisers, soup from the bonfire, a braai (barbecue) buffet, vegetarian alternatives, and a variety of desserts are all included in the restaurant’s four-course dinner.
The more daring diner can sample smoked crocodile tail, deep-fried kapenta, tender warthog fillet, kudu steak, impala kebabs, guinea chicken, Zambezi bream, and more at the buffet.
Following supper, traditional dancers congregate in the centre of the dining area to enthral patrons with drum performances. Visitors can briefly take free drum lessons.
The idea for the Boma décor originated with the customary cooking huts, which combined elements of many Zimbabwean tribes.
The traditional art form of decorating the walls and shelves with pigment dates back a while, but it is currently being revitalised as a new art form.
The entrance is shown with enamel cooking utensils, plates, and cups.
Boma is a component of Africa Albida Tourism, which also manages Ngoma Safari Lodge in Chobe, Botswana, and a number of facilities in Victoria Falls, including Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges, and The Boma — Dinner and Drum Show.
The guests depart from the Boma carrying more than just satisfied appetites; they take with them a newfound appreciation for the rich tapestry of African culture, its captivating flavours, and the warmth of its people.
Australian traveller Katherin was glad she had made decision to visit Boma because a friend of hers suggested it.
“I love and enjoy everything here, from the entrance being welcomed by traditional dancers, giving us the African print to the cuisine.
“The whole evening was full of entertainment, frankly I have never been this happy seeing such a culture and I would do it over and over again,” she said.
The Boma experience is not just a meal; it is a journey into the heart of Africa, leaving an indelible mark on all who partake in its magic.