Watch Tales From Zambia

Tales From Zambia is a fascinating documentary series from Smithsonian Channel Plus, that takes viewers on an immersive journey through the landscapes, culture, and history of Zambia, a country situated in the heart of Africa. The show showcases spectacularly diverse natural settings that include pristine forests, majestic waterfalls, and vast savannahs, whilst also exploring Zambia's rich cultural inheritance through its people and their customs.

The series features six unique episodes, each packed with insightful and informative narration from local experts, historians, and environmentalists. The series begins with a glimpse of the country's history and evolution, highlighting low points such as the slave trade, colonialism, and the fight for independence. The series then moves on to explore Zambia's diverse ecosystem and the wildlife like lions, leopards, and more that call it home. The audience gets to gain insight into the country's great mammal migrations, species extinction and replication alongside other Great Plains of Africa, and how humans have interacted with the land over time.

Tales From Zambia then delves deeper into Zambia's unique cultural heritage, with a focus on its diverse tribal customs and sacred rituals. One episode focuses on traditional fire ceremonies that communities use to seek healing and honor ancestors. The show also features an episode on traditional music, which is often interpreted as a representation of their heritage and evolution since the independence of Zambia in 1964. Mostly in rural areas, communities perform songs that tell stories about the environment, the importance of family and community, or even the political situation. Through the show, the audience gains an understanding of how these traditions, such as music and dance, are disappearing over time with modernization.

Throughout each episode, Tales From Zambia provides a deep understanding of the country's biodiversity and the habitat. Additionally, conservation efforts to preserve wildlife, like elephants, will help keep Zambia's flora and fauna flourishing. The episodes give an overview of current environmental concerns and how it is affecting the land and communities living there, especially wildlife. The show doesn't shy away from displaying elephants that become victims of poaching, the displacement of wildlife with mining, and overfishing in the rivers.

The show concluded by reflecting on the beauty and wonder of Zambia, pondering what might be lost as the country develops. The message is clear: while Zambia is ever-changing, the beauty and uniqueness of the land and her people will live on through Tales From Zambia. In truth, this is what makes the series a true gem, a show that finely telescopes into the soul of an African country like no other.

Overall, Tales From Zambia is a must-watch for those intrigued by Africa's various forms of life and history. The series covers just enough information on wildlife, history, and culture to convince anyone to book a ticket and visit Zambia themselves. The show provides a vast array of stunning visuals and an excellent narrative that encapsulates the richness of Zambia. Tales From Zambia is a well-crafted documentary series and a perfect example of Smithsonian Channel's profound dedication to uncovering the world's story. It is a show that genuinely raises awareness about the need to protect Zambia's natural and cultural heritage while also highlighting its importance to humankind. Whether environmentalists, wildlife enthusiasts, or armchair travelers, anyone with an appreciation for new experiences and cultural heritage will find Tales From Zambia a delightful and rewarding watch.

Tales From Zambia is a series that ran for 2 seasons (15 episodes) between April 28, 2019 and on Smithsonian Channel Plus