Sunset at Victoria Falls Photo credit: Mario Micklisch
The big, beautiful country of Zambia is situated in the heart of the African sub-continent, and is largely untainted by commercial tourist development. Nevertheless, it is well equipped to show visitors the warmth, excitement, challenges and adventures of Africa, and it offers an abundance of natural attractions and extreme sports, which has earned it the reputation of being the 'adventure centre' of the continent.
The destination's prime attraction is the spectacular, breathtaking Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Not only do the falls provide unmatched scenery as the water plunges into the depths of the gorge, but they are also the setting for a multitude of adrenaline pumping activities, such as whitewater rafting, bungee jumping from the 364 foot (111m) high bridge, canoeing, abseiling, micro-lighting over the falls, elephant-back safaris, jet-boating through the rapids and much more.
If travellers prefer dry land, Zambia offers dozens of superb game parks stocked with a profusion of birds and wildlife. Chief among the parks is South Luangwa National Park. Centred on the most intact major river system in Africa, it hosts a huge concentration of game. The legendary 'Zambian walking safari' originated in this park and still offers one of the finest ways to experience the African wilderness.
Visitors to Zambia seldom linger in the towns, as they're generally bent on safaris or destined for game lodges and adventure camps. Those who choose to explore the somewhat dishevelled capital, Lusaka, will find it has an interesting charm. More than half of the inhabitants of this over-populated city are unemployed, yet the atmosphere is far from despondent, as the people hustle and bustle, determined to survive. Thousands of stalls line the streets offering a fascinating array of services and goods. Lovers of the outdoors cannot fail to find
everything and more to satisfy them in the varied wilderness of Zambia.
Key Facts
Language:
There are many dialects spoken in Zambia, but the official language is English. Most business is conducted in English and most Zambians speak it fairly well.
Passport/Visa:
All travellers require a return ticket or proof of onward travel, documents for their next destination and proof of sufficient funds. Passport requirements around the necessary number of blank pages vary from country to country, and visas can be issued on arrival, though the conditions will vary according to nationality. It is also possible to obtain an e-visa online prior to departure for Zambia; passengers must have printed confirmation of the e-visa with them upon arrival. There is a special provision for day visitors coming across the border from Zimbabwe into Livingstone. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The Zambian currency is the Kwacha (ZMW), and is divided into 100 ngwee. It is best to bring US Dollars or Pounds Sterling, which can be exchanged at the many bureaux de change found in the main towns; visitors should avoid exchanging money outside of banks or respected hotels. While most of the tourist hotels, restaurants, travel agents and larger shops, especially in Lusaka and Livingstone, accept credit cards, many outlets in the rural areas do not and deal only in local currency. ATMs are available in Lusaka and some of the major towns. Banking hours vary but are usually 8.30am to 3.30pm on weekdays and mornings on Saturdays.
Electricity:
Electrical current in Zambia is 230 volts, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs, as well as two- and three-pin round plugs are in use.
Travel to Zambia
Overview
Zambia introduces foreigners to some of the best natural attractions and adventurous activities the continent has to offer. Tourism is concentrated around a few major sights, such as Lake Kariba, which is a hub for fishing, boating, wildlife safaris and watersports, and Livingstone, the gateway to the wonders of Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River. Zambia also has some excellent wildlife reserves.
The country's poor roads make accessing certain areas difficult, though Livingstone and the capital city, Lusaka, are both fairly well developed. Lusaka is not a popular tourist destination in itself, but many travellers pass through the sprawling city and it is quite an experience. The markets and nightlife can be exciting and fun, and there are a number of small museums to visit. Zambia is accessible to both budget travellers and those in search of luxury, with Livingstone in particular boasting both great backpacker hostels and
incredible luxury hotels.
Climate in Zambia
Zambia is warm all year round but has three distinct seasons. The weather is hot and wet between December and April, cooler and dry from May to August, and hot and dry between September and November. The rains come earlier and last longer the further north in Zambia travellers venture, and the east generally receives more rainfall than the western lowlands. The Zambian summer, between November and March, can get swelteringly hot, with the average temperatures ranging between 77F and 95F (25C and 35C), while in winter, between May and August, the temperature range becomes far greater, as temperatures can measure anywhere between 43F and 75F (6C and 24C). Autumn and spring are short in Zambia and aren't really distinct seasons. During the rainy season, roads often become impassable due to mud and potholes, and many attractions are unreachable, meaning many camps close. The best time to visit Zambia is between June and September, when the nights are cold but the days
are usually sunny and pleasant, and game viewing is at its best.
Health Notes when travelling to Zambia
Typhoid, polio, rabies and hepatitis A vaccinations should be considered for travel to Zambia. Malaria is endemic in the country (prophylaxis is essential), and outbreaks of cholera are common, especially during the rainy season. There is low potential for yellow fever exposure, though proof of vaccination is required if travellers are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs. Visitors to game parks are at risk of African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), which is carried by tsetse flies; insect repellent is ineffective against tsetse flies.
Medical facilities in the country are under-developed and limited to the point that basic drugs and even clean needles are often not available. The small clinics in Lusaka are regarded as superior to the general hospitals, but clinics in rural areas are rarely stocked with anything more than aspirin or plasters. Full travel insurance, including cover for
medical evacuation by air, is essential and it is vital to bring a good first-aid kit. Visitors should avoid food bought from local street vendors and ensure drinking water is filtered and boiled, or bought in sealed, branded bottles.
Safety Notes when travelling to Zambia
Package tours in Zambia are generally safe and most visits are trouble-free, but visitors should be aware that car hijackings and armed robberies are increasing. Mugging, bag snatching and theft from parked cars are common in urban areas, and travellers should avoid displaying valuables on their person. Travellers should also steer clear political rallies, demonstrations, and large gatherings, as they have the potential to turn violent. Cross-border raids are frequent and landmines are a potential danger in the border areas where Zambia meets Angola and the DRC, so travellers should stay away. Many roads can become impassable in the rainy season (November to April), and roads are severely potholed in general. Poorly maintained vehicles, dangerous local driving habits and the presence of stray animals make driving even more risky.
Customs in Zambia
Zambia's culture is largely patriarchal; however, white visitors tend to be treated respectfully regardless of gender. Zambians are curious and visitors should not be offended by stares and questions. Women should refrain from wearing short skirts and low-cut tops, and beachwear should be worn only on the beach. Even when dressed conservatively, women may find the stares from locals disconcerting. The Western practice of 'getting to the point' is not practiced in Zambian culture, and it is polite to say hello and exchange pleasantries before asking a question or requesting assistance. Shaking hands is a common greeting, and many Zambians will continue to hold hands throughout the conversation. It is traditional to eat with the right hand, and utensils are not used in many areas. Homosexuality is condemned by the general population and is considered illegal. Gay travellers should be discreet and avoid public displays of affection.
Duty Free in Zambia
Travellers to Zambia over 18 years do not have to pay duty on the following items: 400 cigarettes or 500g tobacco or 500g of cigars; 1.5 litres of spirits, 2.5 litres of wine and 2.5 litres of beer, and goods to the value of USD 1,000.
Doing Business in Zambia
Although doing business in Zambia is less complicated than in many parts of Africa, it is still a very poor country where bribery, corruption and the lack of infrastructure present problems. Business meetings are formal but seldom punctual; a suit and tie are appropriate attire despite the heat. Office hours are 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, with a one-hour lunch break between 1pm and 2pm. However, in practice workers often arrive late or leave early, so these office hours a mere guideline.
Communication in Zambia
The international dialling code for Zambia is +260. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). WiFi is limited to top hotels and restaurants, though it's best not to rely on it being offered at all; visitors can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones and rely on a big data bundle or unlimited data.
Tipping in Zambia
Tipping in Zambia is about 10 percent and a 10 percent service charge is usually included in bills.
Passport/Visa Note
All travellers require a return ticket or proof of onward travel, documents for their next destination and proof of sufficient funds. Passport requirements around the necessary number of blank pages vary from country to country, and visas can be issued on arrival, though the conditions will vary according to nationality. It is also possible to obtain an e-visa online prior to departure for Zambia; passengers must have printed confirmation of the e-visa with them upon arrival. There is a special provision for day visitors coming across the border from Zimbabwe into Livingstone. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zambia. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
Tourist Offices
Zambia National Tourist Board, Lusaka: http://www.zambiatourism.com
Zambia Embassies
In the United States:
Zambian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 234 4009.
In Canada:
Zambian High Commission, Ottawa, Cananda: + 613 232 4400.
In the United Kingdom:
Zambian High Commission, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 207 589 6655.
In Australia:
High Commission of the Republic of Zambia, Canberra, Australia: +61 261 994 900.
In South Africa:
Zambian High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 326 1854.
Foreign Embassies in Zambia
American Embassy
United States Embassy, Lusaka: +260 211 357 000.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Lusaka: +260 1 250 833.
British Embassy
British High Commission, Lusaka: +260 211 423 200.
Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Harare, Zimbabwe (also responsible for Zambia): +263 242 853 235 55.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Zambia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Zambia.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Zambia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Cholera is a risk in parts of Zambia. CDC recommends this vaccine for adults who are traveling to an area of active cholera transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water can also prevent many cholera infections. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information).
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Zambia, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Zambia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Health recommendation: CDC does not recommend yellow fever vaccine for most travelers to Zambia. However, you might consider this vaccine if you are staying a long time or will be heavily exposed to mosquitoes.
Country entry requirement: The government of Zambia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever (this does not include the US - see complete list: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.)
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Zambia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Zambia.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Zambia. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Cholera is a risk in parts of Zambia. CDC recommends this vaccine for adults who are traveling to an area of active cholera transmission. Most people do not travel to areas of active cholera transmission. Avoiding unsafe food and water can also prevent many cholera infections. Cholera is rare in travelers but can be severe. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information).
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Zambia, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Zambia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Health recommendation: CDC does not recommend yellow fever vaccine for most travelers to Zambia. However, you might consider this vaccine if you are staying a long time or will be heavily exposed to mosquitoes.
Country entry requirement: The government of Zambia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever (this does not include the US - see complete list: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.)
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Zambia, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Zambia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Zambia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Zambia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Zambia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in Zambia. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Zambia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Zambia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Zambia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The Zambian currency is the Kwacha (ZMW), and is divided into 100 ngwee. It is best to bring US Dollars or Pounds Sterling, which can be exchanged at the many bureaux de change found in the main towns; visitors should avoid exchanging money outside of banks or respected hotels. While most of the tourist hotels, restaurants, travel agents and larger shops, especially in Lusaka and Livingstone, accept credit cards, many outlets in the rural areas do not and deal only in local currency. ATMs are available in Lusaka and some of the major towns. Banking hours vary but are usually 8.30am to 3.30pm on weekdays and mornings on Saturdays.
Lusaka International Airport (LUN) Kenneth Kaunda International Airport
Location: Lusaka The airport is situated 12 miles (20km) northeast of Lusaka.
Time: Local time is GMT +2.
Getting to the city: A minibus service runs to the city centre via Great East Road, and taxis are available.
Car rental: Most major car hire companies are represented at the airport. Cars are usually hired with a chauffeur.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport.
Facilities: The airport has a bank with a bureau de change, a post office, restaurants, a bar, shops, and a VIP lounge. A tourist help desk and travel agent can also be found in the airport terminal building, as well as a business centre.
Parking: Long and short-term parking is available.
Ndola Airport (NLA) Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport
Location: Ndola The airport is located one miles (1.2km) south of the Ndola city.
Time: Local time is GMT +2.
Getting to the city: Taxis and rental cars are available.
Car rental: Europcar is represented at the airport. Other car rental companies are available in town.
Airport Taxis: There are many taxis available. It is best to negotiate a fare before departing.
Facilities: Airport facilities are limited, but there is a small duty-free store.
Parking: Parking is available close to the terminal building.
Overview of the Attractions in Zambia
Zambia introduces foreigners to some of the best natural attractions and adventurous activities the continent has to offer. Tourism is concentrated around a few major sights, such as Lake Kariba, which is a hub for fishing, boating, wildlife safaris and watersports, and Livingstone, the gateway to the wonders of Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River. Zambia also has some excellent wildlife reserves.
The country's poor roads make accessing certain areas difficult, though Livingstone and the capital city, Lusaka, are both fairly well developed. Lusaka is not a popular tourist destination in itself, but many travellers pass through the sprawling city and it is quite an experience. The markets and nightlife can be exciting and fun, and there are a number of small museums to visit. Zambia is accessible to both budget travellers and those in search of luxury, with Livingstone in particular boasting both great backpacker hostels and
incredible luxury hotels.
Kafue National Park
Kafue National Park is one of the largest nature reserves in Africa, spanning a diverse 8,650 square miles (22,400 sq km), which makes it roughly the size of Wales. Vast swathes of Kafue have yet to be explored and developed, so it's a wonderful destination for those who want a real African adventure. Although the headquarters of the park are in the south, the southern region is actually less visited and more rundown; the real gem of the park is the flooded grasslands ecoregion in the north, which includes the Busanga Swamp. These rich lands support large herds of herbivores and their natural predators and the area is also noted for its birdlife.
Livingstone is a historic colonial city on the southern border of Zambia. Also known as Maramba, the town was incorporated as part of Northern Rhodesia under British mining magnate and politician, Cecil John Rhodes, and gained prominence in the 19th century as a trading hub for passage across the Zambezi River. As trade and industry in the region have declined, the town has embraced the tourist trade that comes naturally to it. Located just six miles (10km) from the Zambezi River, Livingstone is a popular gateway to the mighty Victoria Falls and has benefitted from the hordes of tourists that flock there every year. Its colonial past means the city has a number of historical buildings, and several decent museums.
Kariba
Lake Kariba is the largest artificial lake in the world, and a very popular tourist destination in Zambia (and Zimbabwe). A number of game and safari parks ring the lake on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, and tour operators offer a number of water activities, such as boat and pontoon cruises. The best way to experience the vast body of water is to hire a houseboat, though there are a variety of accommodation options for those who prefer to sleep on land, including campsites, luxury lodges and self-catering chalets. All budgets will find something on offer. Lake Kariba is an excellent place to see wildlife, but foreigners should be wary of hippo and crocodiles when swimming in Kariba, and on the banks.
The majestic Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), are located on the Zambezi River, on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Explorer David Livingstone named the falls for Queen Victoria when he first saw them in 1855. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the falls have been attracting travellers and adventure seekers for decades; its pounding waters creating a mist that can be seen for miles and the sound of the falls, especially in the rainy season (November to April), make it difficult to hear anything else. There is a trail that runs along the cliff adjacent to the waterfall, which visitors can use to reach the scenic viewpoints, and a helicopter tour is a phenomenal way to see the falls from above.
Big Game Safari
Many visitors to Zambia come for an African safari and usually head for game lodges or safari companies. Chief among the country's parks is South Luangwa National Park, which is centred on the most intact major river system in Africa, and hosts a huge concentration of game, among the richest on the continent. Game concentrations are at their most intense during the dry season, from April to October, making this the best time to visit for a safari. The legendary 'Zambian walking safari' originated in this park and is still one of the finest ways to experience the African wilderness close-up and personal.
Raft the Zambezi
Nearly half the rapids on the Zambezi River are classified as Grade 5 (Grade 6 is commercially unrunnable), which means that the steep gradient causes long and extremely turbulent rapids with big drops and a high volume of water. Half and full-day rafting expeditions provide what is internationally acclaimed to be the wildest and best whitewater rafting experience in the world. The most exciting time to do rafting is during the dry season (July to mid-February), when the water is at its lowest and the rapids at their biggest. For those that want even more adrenalin than the whitewater rafting can supply, river boarding allows individuals to surf their way down the mighty Zambezi armed with only a body board, fins, helmet and lifejacket.
Bungee at Vic Falls
At 364ft (111m), the bridge over Victoria Falls is one of the highest bungee jump sites in the world, the jump renowned for its beautiful setting and the adrenaline rush visitors feel when they look into the gorge and turbulent waters below. The Victoria Falls Bridge lies in 'no man's land' between the Zimbabwe and Zambian border posts, making it easily accessible from both countries. Immigration officials will issue a Gate Pass for jumpers and spectators, and there is the added option of gorge swinging instead of bungee jumping, though this adrenalin-pumping alternative is undertaken nearby on the edge of the gorge, not off the bridge.
An elderly American tourist was killed after an "aggressive" bull elephant attacked a vehicle during a game drive in Zambia, the safari operator said. The incident took place Saturday morning at Kafue National Park, a Lusaka Police spokesperson confirmed to
"Do you have a death wish?" "Are you crazy?" "Did you make out your will?" These were all questions posed to me by friends, family, and neighbors when I told them I was off to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia to take a walking safari, where
Word had begun to spread throughout South Luangwa National Park in east Zambia: A male leopard had killed an aardvark and dragged the carcass up a tree. My guide, Abraham Banda of Norman Carr Safaris, shook his head when he heard. Aardvarks, he explained, are an incredibly elusive animal. They are nocturnal and spend most of their lives
Two decades after it collapsed, Zambia Airways is taking off again. The former international airline, which flew to New York, Cyprus and Mumbai as well as 18 regional destinations before collapsing in 1994 due to debt, announced today that it will start flights in and out of Zambia's capital, Lusaka, starting in January 2019. The airline, which ran up a huge debt during its thirty
When it came to selecting the top safari lodges in Africa, properties in South Africa, Zambia, and Tanzania rose to the top. And who could blame our readers? Home to top wildlife-viewing sites like Kruger National Park, South Luangwa National Park, and the UNESCO-protected Ngorongoro Conservation Area, these countries offer travelers the chance to see lions and leopards on the prowl, thousands
To put it in perspective: In 2001, Botswana had exactly zero rhino left, which forced the government to get serious about passing legislature to combat and protect its wildlife. Since then, they've made poaching punishable by death, and are the only country in Africa to deploy the national military to make sure poachers stay out of the reserves (South Africa and Zambia still rely on private donation). Last year, Prince Harry lent the cause some dazzle when he became patron of Botswana's Rhino Conservancy, and today, at least 200 rhino have been repopulated to the Okavango Delta due to private-public partnerships.
Zambia - The hair on the back of my neck stands up as I walk over hyena tracks and side step fresh elephant dung, but real fear grips when we come across lion tracks.
AVANI Hotels AND Resorts in Namibia, Lesotho, Zambia, Mozambique and Botswana, offer some solid advice for business executives thinking of extending their trip into a family event
Zambia is home to Victoria Falls, but it's so much more than that. It's a vast country, as large as France, Switzerland, Austria, and Hungary combined, with a rich history for conservation and responsible tourism that continues to thrive today
The African Dream, being built in Harare, Zimbabwe, will host a mere 16 passengers. The itinerary takes guests along the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers through Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe
In 1855, after first glimpsing what the local Kololo tribe called Mosi-oa-Tunya — “the smoke that thunders” — the Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone promptly set about renaming it for his queen. Today, Victoria Falls straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia
There I was, paddling down the Zambezi River in Zambia, surrounded by hungry hippos and crocodiles with a predatory gleam in their yellow-green eyes. This was indeed the majestic Zambezi, home of Victoria Falls, stamping ground of adventurers Henry Stanley and David Livingstone
From an old mining zone in rural Australia to a new breeding ground in urban Zambia, here's a look at 10 of the latest national parks and marine reserves
