ZAMBIA

Zambia, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is defined by its vast wilderness, abundant wildlife, and the majestic Zambezi River, home to the iconic Victoria Falls. Known for pioneering walking safaris, it offers an authentic and immersive African experience, focused on conservation.

Region: Southern Africa

Capital: Lusaka

Official Language: English

Level of Travel Safety: Generally safe, but exercise caution in urban areas due to petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching). Avoid walking alone after dark. Intercity travel at night is not recommended due to armed robberies on highways.

A map of Africa with Zambia highlighted in green.

Why Visit Zambia?

Unspoiled Wilderness: Zambia’s vast national parks offer raw, crowd-free safaris, including the iconic South Luangwa.

Victoria Falls: One of the world’s largest waterfalls—feel the mist from Knife-Edge Bridge or go white-water rafting.

Walking Safaris: Zambia is the birthplace of the walking safari, where expert guides take you eye-to-eye with wildlife.

A leopard's face is partially visible through dry grass, providing camouflage.

Cultural Encounters: Visit rural villages, watch traditional dances, and learn about the Lozi’s Kuomboka ceremony.

Spectacular Rivers: Canoe or boat along the Zambezi or Kafue for hippo sightings and golden sunsets.

Night Safaris & Stargazing: Spot leopards after dark and marvel at southern skies in remote bush camps.

A wide waterfall cascades down, with mist rising from the bottom.

Essential Trip Information

Visa policies for Zambia vary by nationality. Many travelers, including those from the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and most EU nations, are visa-exempt for short tourist or business stays (typically 30-90 days). Other nationalities may require an e-Visa or obtain a visa on arrival.

All visitors need a passport valid for six months beyond their stay with three blank pages. Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds is recommended.

The KAZA UNIVISA (US$50) is available for eligible nationalities, allowing 30-day multiple entries to Zambia, Zimbabwe, and day trips to Botswana via specific borders.

🔗 Zambia Department of Immigration

Zambia uses the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Bring some US$ cash, preferably in small bills (new, clean notes).
  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in major cities (Barclays, Stanbic); cards are accepted in upscale hotels/lodges.

What to Avoid: Remote areas may be cash-only, and black-market exchange rates are risky and illegal.

English is the official language and widely used.

Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, and Lozi are also spoken locally.

Useful phrases: “Mulishani?” (Hello), “Zikomo” (Thank you)

Zambia is one of Africa’s safest countries for travelers.

Lusaka and Livingstone are generally safe, but be cautious at night.

Watch belongings in markets and bus stations.

Emergency number: 999 or 112 (mobile networks).

Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from endemic countries.

Malaria risk is high—use mosquito repellent and take antimalarials.

Tap water is not safe—stick to bottled or filtered water.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Domestic flights connect major tourist hubs (Lusaka, Mfuwe, Livingstone).

Minibuses are cheap but chaotic—use with caution.

Private taxis or drivers are common for short distances.

Safari areas often require pre-arranged 4×4 transfers.

Self-driving possible, but road conditions vary—4×4 recommended for parks.

Zambia is relatively affordable, though remote lodges and safaris can be costly.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses, backpackers (US$15–40/night)

  • Mid-range: Safari lodges, 3-star hotels (US$60–150/night)

  • Luxury: Private lodges, riverfront suites (US$250+/night)

Food

  • Street food/local spots: US$2–6 (e.g., nsima with grilled meat)

  • Mid-range restaurants: US$10–20/person

  • Upscale dining: US$30–60+/person

Drinks

  • Local beer: US$1–2

  • Imported spirits/cocktails: US$5–10

Transportation

  • Local minibuses: US$0.50–2 (cheap but crowded)

  • Taxis: US$5–15 for short trips in Lusaka

  • Domestic flights (e.g., to Livingstone): US$100–250

  • Safari transfers or charter flights: Can exceed US$300

Money-Saving Tips

  • Use shared taxis or buses between cities.

  • Book national parks directly to avoid agent fees.

  • Eat local—Zambian cuisine is hearty, cheap, and delicious.

Explore Zambia

 Located on the southern border with Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), is one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls. The nearby town of Livingstone offers adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and helicopter flights over the falls.

Situated in eastern Zambia’s Luangwa Valley, this park is widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest for wildlife viewing, particularly renowned for its walking safaris. It boasts a high concentration of leopards, lions, elephants, hippos, and over 400 bird species.

Nestled along the northern bank of the Zambezi River in the southeast, this park offers a unique safari experience combining game drives with superb water-based activities like canoeing and boat safaris. It’s famous for large herds of elephants, buffalo, and a variety of predators.

Zambia’s largest national park, covering a vast area in the center-west, is diverse and pristine. It offers a truly wild experience, with varied habitats from riverine forests to grassy plains, home to abundant antelopes, predators, and a rich birdlife, especially in the remote Busanga Plains.

Located in the remote western province, this unique park is best known for hosting Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, a spectacular event in November. It’s a vast, grassy plain with unique wildlife and a sense of true wilderness.

A relatively small park in northern Zambia, Kasanka is world-renowned for the largest mammal migration on Earth – millions of straw-coloured fruit bats gather here between October and December. It’s a spectacular natural phenomenon drawing nature enthusiasts.

The bustling capital city of Zambia, located in the central region, offers a glimpse into modern Zambian life. While not a safari destination, it features the Lusaka National Museum, Soweto Market, and the Kabwata Cultural Village, providing cultural insights and local crafts.

The world’s second-deepest freshwater lake forms part of Zambia’s northern border. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and fishing, with unique endemic fish species. Mpulungu is the main Zambian port on the lake.

This vast wetland ecosystem in northern Zambia is a Ramsar site, famous for being the best place in Africa to spot the elusive shoebill stork. It’s a birder’s paradise, also home to a unique subspecies of black lechwe.

Situated in the Central Province near the town of Mkushi, these beautiful cascading waterfalls are a popular local attraction. The falls plunge into a natural pool, offering a refreshing swim and a scenic spot for picnics, surrounded by lush vegetation.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices on safaris and accommodation.
  • Fewer Crowds, offering an exclusive feel.
  • Lush, Green Landscapes, ideal for photography.
  • Excellent Birdwatching with migratory species.
  • Victoria Falls is at its fullest and most powerful (Feb-May).

Main Drawbacks:

  • Heavy Afternoon Rainfall can disrupt plans.
  • High Humidity and hot temperatures (often above 80ºF / 27ºC).
  • Some Camps Close due to impassable roads.
  • Wildlife Dispersed by abundant water, harder to spot.
  • Increased Mosquito Activity.

Key Regions:

  • Victoria Falls (Livingstone): At its most spectacular, though expect heavy spray.
  • South Luangwa National Park (Mfuwe section): Some camps remain open for unique boat safaris.
  • Lusaka: City attractions, museums, and markets are accessible.
  • Lower Zambezi National Park: Most camps close, but birding can be good.

Key Advantages:

  • Good Value with moderate prices.
  • Manageable Crowds compared to peak season.
  • Lush Landscapes (April/May), turning greener (November).
  • Excellent for Victoria Falls (April/May, high water) and Liuwa Plain wildebeest migration (November).
  • Many Camps Re-open (April/May).

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (lingering rains in April/May, early rains in November).
  • Roads can still be challenging in early shoulder season.
  • Humidity increases towards November.
  • Wildlife spotting may still be challenging in denser vegetation.

Key Regions:

  • Victoria Falls (Livingstone): Still impressive, with less spray by May.
  • South Luangwa National Park: Great for walking safaris starting in May; game viewing improving.
  • Lower Zambezi National Park: Camps reopen in May, offering good game viewing.
  • Liuwa Plain National Park: Witness the start of the wildebeest migration in November.
  • Cooler, Dry Season (June – October)
  • July & August (European/North American summer holidays)
  • September & October (hottest months, but prime game viewing)

Planning Your Trip

Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants. Safari guides/staff: US$10–20 per day (pooled).

Greetings: A handshake and polite small talk are expected before discussing business.

Dress Code: Modest dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas.

Photography: Ask permission before photographing people. Avoid taking photos of government buildings.

Safety: Zambia is generally safe, but avoid walking alone at night in cities.

Accommodation: Budget: US$25–50, Mid-range: US$100–250, Luxury: US$400+.

Food: Local meals: ~US$5–10, restaurant meal: US$15–30, fine dining: US$50+.

Transport: Domestic flights: US$150–300, car hire: US$80/day, taxis: US$5–10.

Activities: Safari drives: ~US$50–150, Victoria Falls entry: US$20, bungee jumping: US$160.

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$80–120 (hostels, public transport, local eats).

  • Mid-range: US$200–350 (comfortable lodges, safaris, guided tours).

  • Luxury: US$500+ (all-inclusive safaris, air transfers, gourmet meals).

Wi-Fi: Available in hotels and lodges, but often slow or limited in rural areas.

SIM Cards: Available from Airtel and MTN outlets—US$5–10 for SIM, data ~US$5 for 5GB.

eSIMs: Supported by Airalo and other providers—great for pre-arrival setup.

Recommended for: Medical emergencies, evacuation (especially from remote safari areas), and cancellations.

Wildlife & Adventure Cover: Make sure your policy includes safari, canoeing, and walking safaris.

Medical Facilities: Limited outside Lusaka—evacuation coverage is essential.

Zambia offers everything from riverside eco-lodges to remote luxury bush camps.

Luxury:

  • Safari Lodges: Chiawa Camp (Lower Zambezi), Time + Tide Chinzombo (South Luangwa).
  • Victoria Falls: Royal Livingstone Hotel, Tongabezi Lodge.

Mid-range:

  • Safari Tented Camps: Flatdogs Camp, Mfuwe Lodge.
  • Hotels in Lusaka: Latitude 15°, Taj Pamodzi.

Budget:

  • Backpacker hostels in Livingstone: Jollyboys, Fawlty Towers (~US$25–40/night).
  • Basic guesthouses in small towns (~US$20–30/night).

Unique Stays:

  • Houseboats on Lake Kariba.
  • Bush camps in remote national parks.

Tip: Book early for June–October as camps fill quickly in peak safari season.

Distances are long, and infrastructure is variable—plan for both air and ground options.

Domestic Flights:

  • Key routes: Lusaka–Livingstone, Lusaka–Mfuwe (South Luangwa), Lusaka–Lower Zambezi.
  • Cost: ~US$150–300 one-way.
  • Pro tip: Charter flights are common for lodge-to-lodge travel.

Road Travel:

  • Car rentals: ~US$80–120/day with 4×4 essential for park access.
  • Self-driving: Possible, but not recommended for first-timers due to rough roads and poor signage.
  • Private transfers: Often arranged through lodges.

Minibuses (matatus):

  • Cheapest form (~US$2–10 for intercity) but cramped and unreliable. Not ideal for tourists.

Taxis:

  • Available in Lusaka and Livingstone (~US$5–10 per trip). Negotiate fares or use apps like Yango.

Boats & Canoes:

  • Popular in Lower Zambezi and Kafue—often part of safari experiences.

Bold Recommendation: Fly between major areas and book lodge-arranged transfers for remote regions.

Handy Tips

Malawi uses the Malawian Kwacha (MWK). Bills come in MWK 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 denominations. Coins are in MWK 1, 2, 5, and 10.

  • Exchanging Currency: Exchange currency at local banks or official exchange bureaus for better rates. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels, as they tend to offer poor exchange rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in major cities, especially in hotels and large stores. However, carry cash for use in rural areas or for smaller transactions.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated, but not mandatory.

    • Restaurants/Bars: A 10% tip is common (check if service charge is included).

    • Taxis: Round up to the nearest Kwacha.

    • Hotel Staff: MWK 500–1000 for porters; MWK 1000–2000 per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: MWK 5000–10000 per group for a half-day tour.

English is the official language, widely spoken in urban areas, but Chichewa (local language) is the most common. Helpful phrases:

  • “Kodi pali malo abwino oti ndiyende?” – “Where is a good place to visit?”

  • “Zikugulitsa bwanji?” – “How much is this?”

  • “Ningakhale ndi mpingo?” – “Can I have a receipt?”

  • Chichewa: Learn a few basic phrases, as locals appreciate efforts to speak their language.

Malawi is relatively safe for tourists, though it’s wise to stay alert in urban centers. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

  • Emergency Contacts:

    • 999: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).

    • 112: Emergency services (alternative).

    • Your Embassy: Located in Lilongwe or Blantyre, keep contact details handy.

Malawi uses 230V/50Hz with Type G plugs (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern). Visitors will need an adapter, as the plug type may differ from your home country.

Tap water is generally not safe to drink unless it’s been boiled or filtered. Bottled water is widely available, and it’s recommended to drink bottled water during your stay.

National holidays and special events include:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 7 Mar: International Women’s Day

  • 1 May: Labour Day

  • 6 Jul: Independence Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Note: Many businesses may close on public holidays, and tourism activities might be more crowded.

Stores: Typically open from 08:00–18:00, with extended hours in urban areas.

Pharmacies: Larger pharmacies in cities often stay open late.

Markets: Local markets are open throughout the day, and some open on weekends.

Nshima: Zambia’s staple—thick maize porridge served with meats or vegetables.

Ifisashi: Groundnut (peanut) stew with greens—rich, nutty, and comforting.

Buka Buka: Nile perch grilled or fried—common around lakes.

T-bone Steak: Charcoal-grilled and served with local sides—Zambians love their beef.

Village Chicken: Free-range chicken cooked in tomato-onion sauce—simple, flavorful.

Kapenta: Tiny sardine-like fish fried crispy—usually served with nshima.

Vitumbuwa: Deep-fried sweet dough balls—Zambia’s version of doughnuts.

Chikanda: Known as “African polony”—a spicy cake made from wild orchid tubers.

Sweet Potato Cakes: Roasted or mashed and sweetened—a village delicacy.

Banana Fritters: Fried ripe bananas in a sugary batter—popular roadside treat.

Alcoholic:

  • Mosi Lager: Zambia’s national beer—smooth, crisp, and perfect on a hot day.

  • Rhino Lager: Stronger local brew with a bold malty profile.

  • Zambezi Gold: A premium beer brewed with local maize and hops.

  • Palm Wine: Traditional fermented sap—slightly sweet and mildly alcoholic.

  • Chibuku Shake-Shake: A thick, sour traditional beer made from sorghum—an acquired taste.

  • South African Wines: Widely available in Zambia—try a chilled Chenin Blanc or Pinotage.

  • Amarula Cream: Cream liqueur from marula fruit—sweet and smooth.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Maheu: Thick, sweet fermented maize drink—comes in many fruit flavors.

  • Tamarind Juice: Tangy, cooling drink made from tamarind pulp and sugar.

  • Lemon Cream Soda: Zambians love it ice-cold—old-school and fizzy.

  • Munkoyo: Lightly fermented root beverage—earthy and slightly sour.

  • Zambezi Bottled Water: Locally bottled, crisp, and refreshing—perfect for safaris.

Livingstone Museum: Zambia’s oldest and richest museum—explores archaeology, history, and ethnography.

Freedom Statue: Symbol of Zambia’s independence—located in Lusaka.

Kabwata Cultural Village: Artisans and dancers showcase traditional crafts and music.

Shiwa Ng’andu Estate: Remote English-style manor with a fascinating colonial backstory.

Traditional Ceremonies: Don’t miss Kuomboka, a royal canoe procession by the Lozi people.

Lusaka National Museum: Highlights Zambia’s post-independence identity and urban culture.

Mutinondo Wilderness: Ancient rock art and sacred hills—perfect blend of nature and heritage.

Chilenje House 394: Where Zambia’s first president, Kenneth Kaunda, once lived.

Maramba Cultural Museum: A local spot preserving Tonga tribal history.

Music & Dance: Kalindula, Zambia’s traditional pop fusion—drum-heavy and infectious.

Safari Drives: Track lions, leopards, and elephants in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi.

Walking Safaris: Zambia invented it—intimate, guided treks through the bush.

Victoria Falls Bungee: 364-foot adrenaline leap over the Zambezi Gorge.

Devil’s Pool: Swim on the edge of Victoria Falls (August–January only).

Sunset River Cruises: Zambezi River cruises with drinks, snacks, and hippo sightings.

Birdwatching: Over 750 bird species—Bangweulu Wetlands is a birder’s paradise.

Art Galleries: Visit Lechwe Trust and 37d Gallery in Lusaka for contemporary Zambian art.

Village Visits: Meet local communities and explore daily traditions (ethical tours only).

Markets: Lusaka’s Soweto Market or Livingstone’s Maramba Market—bustling and authentic.

Hot Springs: Relax in Kapishya Hot Springs under starry skies.

Latitude 15° Lounge: Upscale Lusaka bar with curated cocktails and Afro-chic vibe.

Rooftop Bar at Neelkanth Sarovar: City views, DJs, and cool breezes.

Chez Ntemba: Pan-African nightclub chain—big beats and big dancefloors.

Times Café: Laid-back Lusaka bar with live music and cold drinks.

Marlin Restaurant & Bar (Livingstone): Locals love the sundowners and live bands.

Zig Zag Café (Livingstone): Tropical garden vibes, cocktails, and grilled meats.

The Misty Jazz Club: Smooth live jazz and good whisky collection.

Bongwe’s Big Bush: A backpacker bar with character and weekly events.

Keg & Lion: South African-style pub with beer towers and sports screens.

Mojo New York: Stylish Lusaka spot for late-night cocktails and dancing.