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.
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