HARARE, 9 February (BelTA - ZBC) - Gastronomy tourism is
increasingly anchoring Zimbabwe’s tourism growth, with Victoria Falls’
iconic Boma Dinner and Drum Show emerging as a major drawcard for
visitors seeking authentic Zimbabwean cuisine and cultural experiences.
If one wants to understand a culture, they often start with its food, and at The Boma, that experience has reached new heights. In 2025 alone, the renowned venue hosted more than 80 404 guests, averaging about 220 diners every night throughout the year.
The figures paint a picture of a destination thriving on the strength of its cultural heritage.
As dusk settles over Victoria Falls, the aroma of traditional dishes fills the air. From slow-cooked meats to local grains and relishes, The Boma offers more than a meal, it provides a cultural journey. For many visitors, food has become a gateway to Zimbabwe’s identity.
Some tourists described the experience as deeply immersive.
“It is not just dinner, it feels like we are being welcomed into Zimbabwean culture,” said one tourist.
“The flavours are so unique, you can taste tradition in every dish. I have travelled a lot, but this is one of the most authentic food experiences I have had.The combination of food, drums and dance makes this unforgettable,” said another.
Inside The Boma, gastronomy blends seamlessly with performance. Each dish, drumbeat and dance tells a story, transforming dinner into a celebration and strengthening Victoria Falls’ status as a culinary tourism hub.
The Boma manager, Mr Gerald Kapesa, said the experience reflects both local authenticity and global appeal.
“What this means is that the world is coming to Victoria Falls. What we host at The Boma reflects the essence of Victoria Falls and Zimbabwean culture. We offer the taste of Zimbabwe, and while we make it palatable to different nationalities, we maintain our traditional flavours. That is what visitors come for. This experience goes beyond entertainment, we are showcasing Zimbabwean cuisine and preserving our culture,” he explained.
Beyond the cultural value, gastronomy tourism has a significant economic impact.
Ventures such as The Boma support local farmers, artisans and performers. Every plate of sadza or skewer of game meat contributes to a value chain that extends well beyond the safari estate, reinforcing tourism’s role in community livelihoods and national development.
If one wants to understand a culture, they often start with its food, and at The Boma, that experience has reached new heights. In 2025 alone, the renowned venue hosted more than 80 404 guests, averaging about 220 diners every night throughout the year.
The figures paint a picture of a destination thriving on the strength of its cultural heritage.
As dusk settles over Victoria Falls, the aroma of traditional dishes fills the air. From slow-cooked meats to local grains and relishes, The Boma offers more than a meal, it provides a cultural journey. For many visitors, food has become a gateway to Zimbabwe’s identity.
Some tourists described the experience as deeply immersive.
“It is not just dinner, it feels like we are being welcomed into Zimbabwean culture,” said one tourist.
“The flavours are so unique, you can taste tradition in every dish. I have travelled a lot, but this is one of the most authentic food experiences I have had.The combination of food, drums and dance makes this unforgettable,” said another.
Inside The Boma, gastronomy blends seamlessly with performance. Each dish, drumbeat and dance tells a story, transforming dinner into a celebration and strengthening Victoria Falls’ status as a culinary tourism hub.
The Boma manager, Mr Gerald Kapesa, said the experience reflects both local authenticity and global appeal.
“What this means is that the world is coming to Victoria Falls. What we host at The Boma reflects the essence of Victoria Falls and Zimbabwean culture. We offer the taste of Zimbabwe, and while we make it palatable to different nationalities, we maintain our traditional flavours. That is what visitors come for. This experience goes beyond entertainment, we are showcasing Zimbabwean cuisine and preserving our culture,” he explained.
Beyond the cultural value, gastronomy tourism has a significant economic impact.
Ventures such as The Boma support local farmers, artisans and performers. Every plate of sadza or skewer of game meat contributes to a value chain that extends well beyond the safari estate, reinforcing tourism’s role in community livelihoods and national development.
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