Ntumbachushi Falls, Waterfall system in Luapula Province, Zambia
Ntumbachushi Falls is a waterfall system on the Ngona River in Luapula Province that splits into two parallel channels with steep drops and flows into pools below. Above the main falls, a series of smaller cascades and natural water basins stretch upstream for several kilometers.
The waterfall system was first formally documented by researchers in 2008, who studied and mapped the different segments of the cascades. This exploration helped establish a scientific understanding of the falls and how they extend across the landscape.
The name Ntumbachushi comes from the local language and means 'the waterfall that falls down', showing how deeply the falls are woven into the identity of nearby communities. The water and its sound shape daily life and remain central to the region's sense of place.
The falls are reachable by road from the nearest town, followed by a walk to reach the base. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the terrain is rough and the sun can be intense in this region.
The water is naturally filtered as it passes through wetlands upstream, which keeps it remarkably clear as it drops over the falls. This filtering process by swampland is uncommon and explains why the water here stays cleaner than in many other river systems nearby.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
