SAFARIS IN AFRICA

About Zambia

🌍 Zambia – Country Travel Information

⚡ Electricity

  • Voltage: 230V, 50Hz
  • Plug types: Type C, D & G (European 2-pin, Indian 3-pin, and British 3-pin).
  • A universal travel adapter is useful.

💳 Banking

  • Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
  • ATMs available in major towns and cities, but less reliable in rural areas.
  • Credit cards (Visa & MasterCard) accepted in hotels, lodges, and large shops; cash is essential for markets and remote areas.
  • US Dollars widely accepted in the tourism sector, especially for safaris and at Victoria Falls.

🍲 Cuisine

  • Staple: Nshima (maize porridge) served with relish (vegetables, beans, or meat).
  • Popular dishes: Grilled fish, goat meat, beef stews, kapenta (small dried fish), and chikanda (“African polony”).
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables widely available.
  • Western cuisine available in lodges and cities.

☀️ Climate

  • Tropical climate with three main seasons:
    • Cool & dry (May–Aug): Mild days, chilly nights.
    • Hot & dry (Sep–Nov): Very hot, especially in the Zambezi Valley.
    • Rainy season (Dec–Apr): Heavy rains, some roads become impassable.
  • Best time to visit: May–Oct (dry season) – excellent for safaris and Victoria Falls (best flow Mar–May).

🚍 Transport

  • Domestic flights connect Lusaka, Livingstone, Mfuwe, and safari parks.
  • Long-distance buses available but slow and inconsistent.
  • Taxis available in Lusaka & Livingstone; negotiate fares in advance.
  • Car hire possible but roads outside cities may be poor, especially in rainy season.
  • Many safari lodges arrange transfers and charter flights.

👕 Dress

  • Light, breathable clothing for the day; warm clothing for evenings in dry season.
  • Safari wear: Neutral colors (khaki, beige, green) recommended.
  • Modest clothing in villages and towns.
  • Comfortable shoes for walking safaris and nature activities.

🏥 Health

  • Yellow fever vaccination required if coming from/transiting endemic areas.
  • Malaria risk is high across Zambia – prophylaxis strongly recommended.
  • Other vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Hepatitis B.
  • Drink bottled or purified water; avoid tap water.
  • Medical care in Lusaka and Livingstone is fair; rural healthcare limited.
  • Travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential for safaris.

🛡️ Safety

  • Zambia is generally safe and welcoming.
  • Petty theft can occur in cities and crowded places.
  • Avoid walking at night in urban areas.
  • Wildlife areas are safe if park rules are respected.
  • Road safety can be a concern – avoid night driving.

🛂 Visa

  • Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online via the eVisa system.
  • Types: Single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry visas.
  • KAZA UniVisa available (valid for both Zambia & Zimbabwe, multiple entries, also day trips to Botswana).
  • Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond entry with at least 2 blank pages.

ℹ️ General

Popular attractions: Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya), South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park, Lake Kariba, Livingstone, Zambezi River activities (rafting, fishing).

Official language: English (widely spoken).

Time zone: GMT+2 (no daylight savings).

Driving: Left-hand side of the road.

Tipping: 5–10% in restaurants; safari guides/drivers usually tipped separately.