Boma Dinner & Traditional Drum Show
About This Experience
Experience the rhythm and flavor of Africa with an unforgettable evening at the Boma Restaurant, featuring a spectacular four-course feast of traditional African cuisine accompanied by energetic drumming performances and interactive cultural entertainment.
The evening begins as you enter the atmospheric open-air venue styled like a traditional African village, with torches lighting the paths and the sound of drums in the distance. You'll start with welcome drinks and the opportunity to participate in a traditional face painting ceremony before moving to the main dining area. The menu is an adventurous journey through African flavors, featuring traditional dishes like sadza (maize porridge), boerewors (sausage), crocodile, warthog, and the famous mopane worms—but don't worry, there are plenty of familiar options too.
Throughout the dinner, various entertainment acts take the stage: acrobatic dancers perform traditional routines, storytellers share local legends, and most memorably, drummers create infectious rhythms that will have you tapping your feet. The interactive drumming session is a highlight—guests are invited to join the drummers on stage, learning basic rhythms and becoming part of the performance. The energy is contagious, and by the end of the evening, the entire restaurant is clapping, drumming, and dancing together.
The Boma has won numerous awards for showcasing authentic African culture while remaining accessible and entertaining for international visitors. It's a perfect evening activity that combines food, culture, and entertainment in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the Boma creates a memorable African night that captures the spirit of Zimbabwe's warm hospitality.
What's Included
Why This Activity is Popular
The Boma offers accessible cultural entertainment that's fun for everyone—from adventurous eaters to those who prefer safer options, from shy observers to enthusiastic participants. The interactive elements make you feel part of the experience rather than just a spectator. It's become a 'must-do' evening activity in Victoria Falls.
What to Expect
Evening begins around 6:30-7pm with welcome drinks and traditional face painting ceremony. The atmospheric venue features torch-lit paths, thatched structures, and African decor. Four-course feast includes traditional dishes (sadza, boerewors, crocodile, warthog, mopane worms) plus more familiar options for conservative eaters. Buffet-style with extensive selection ensures everyone finds something they enjoy. Throughout dinner, entertainment rotates: acrobatic traditional dancers, storytellers, and especially the incredible drummers. The interactive drumming session invites guests on stage to learn basic African rhythms—it's surprisingly fun even if you have no musical talent. Energy builds throughout evening, culminating in everyone clapping and dancing together. Dinner lasts 3-4 hours but feels shorter due to constant entertainment. Open-air setting means cool, comfortable evenings. Bar available for drinks (not included in ticket price).
Important Information
Book in advance—this popular venue sells out, especially during high season. Pickup from hotels usually included. Smart casual dress—no need to be formal but resort-appropriate. Bring camera for photos with performers. Vegetarian options available but let them know in advance. The adventurous food tasting (crocodile, worms) is optional—plenty of normal options too. Suitable for all ages—children love the drumming and dancing. Open-air venue means bring light jacket for cooler months (May-August).
Best Time to Book
Popular year-round. Book well in advance during peak season (July-October). Tuesday-Saturday nights typically operate (check schedule as it varies). Earlier in your trip is ideal—it's a great introduction to African culture and makes other experiences more meaningful. Perfect for your first or second evening in Victoria Falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to eat the crocodile and mopane worms?
Absolutely not! These adventurous options are available for those who want to try them (crocodile tastes like chicken, worms are crunchy and salty), but there's a huge buffet with familiar options too. You can stick entirely to normal food and still have a great meal—the cultural experience is about more than just exotic food.
I'm shy about participating—will I be forced to drum or dance?
Not at all. While the interactive elements are encouraged, you're free to observe and enjoy from your seat. The atmosphere is fun and inclusive, not pressuring or embarrassing. That said, most shy people end up participating anyway because the energy is so contagious and the performers make it easy and fun.
Is this authentic or just a tourist show?
It's a professional entertainment experience designed for tourists, but performed by talented local artists using authentic traditional dances, rhythms, and customs. Think of it as an accessible introduction to African culture rather than a pure authentic experience—it's meant to entertain while educating, and it does both brilliantly.
Pro Tips & Insider Advice
Arrive slightly early for best table selection—center tables get best view of performances. Pace yourself on the buffet—it's huge and you'll want to save room for dessert. Tip performers generously if you enjoyed the show (USD or local currency). The interactive drumming looks silly but is genuinely fun—give it a try even if you're nervous. Take photos with the performers after—they're friendly and appreciate the interaction. If you're trying adventurous foods for the first time, start with crocodile (most approachable) before attempting worms. Combine with sunset cruise earlier for a perfect cultural day. This is the single most entertaining evening activity in Victoria Falls—don't skip it.
per person
Perfect For
Location
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia border