Owl Safaris – Travel Quick Reference Guide
Southern Africa & Indian Ocean Islands
1. Travel Documents
Passport valid 6+ months beyond travel dates
2–3 blank pages for visas and stamps
Visas may be required depending on nationality – check before travel
Carry travel insurance info and emergency contacts
2. Health & Vaccinations
Consult your local travel clinic for the latest vaccine requirements
Yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic countries
Malaria prophylaxis recommended in certain regions
Bring medications & a basic first aid kit
3. Safety & Security
Exercise usual caution in cities; avoid displaying valuables
Follow ranger instructions and park rules in wildlife areas
Stay informed about local conditions and political stability
Use reputable transport operators
4. Money & Payments
Major credit and debit cards are generally accepted in towns, lodges, and tourist areas
Carry some cash for rural locations, markets, or smaller vendors where cards may not be accepted
ATMs are widely available in towns and larger lodges, but may be limited in remote areas
Check with your bank about international fees and notify them of your travel plans
5. Local Laws & Customs
Respect local customs, dress codes, and religious sites
Strict penalties for drugs or wildlife violations
Environmental rules enforced – do not remove plants, animals, or coral
6. Transport & Driving
Drive on the left-hand side of the road
International Driving Permit recommended
Rural roads may be unpaved; drive cautiously, especially at night
Use reputable taxis, shuttles, or rideshare apps in cities
7. Communication
Local SIM cards are inexpensive and widely available
Internet is generally available in towns, lodges, and tourist areas
Mobile coverage may be limited in remote areas
8. Climate & Packing
Coastal areas: tropical; inland: arid; highlands: temperate
Light clothing for daytime; warm layers for evenings/high altitude
Comfortable walking shoes and safari-appropriate clothing
Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
9. Wildlife & Nature
Maintain a safe distance from animals; never feed wildlife
Follow park rules and ranger guidance
Binoculars and cameras recommended
10. Emergency Contacts
Contact Owl Safaris directly for assistance or support during your trip
Keep travel insurance provider contact info accessible
Tip: Travel prepared, respect local culture and wildlife, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure
This unique, peanut-shaped country, once known as Northern Rhodesia, offers visitors an authentic African experience complete with adrenalin pumping adventure sports, a variety of fascinating cultural activities, and an abundance of indigenous wildlife, which finds refuge in Zambia’s vast national parks. Spend your evenings enjoying the spectacular site of the world’s largest waterfall, the Victoria Falls, while sipping on sundowners after an exhilarating day of whitewater rafting down the rapids of the mighty Zambezi River. If that sounds a little too adventurous for your taste, take a houseboat cruise along the exquisite Lake Kariba while watching wild elephants drink at the riverbank as you try your hand at catching the elusive tiger fish. However you choose to spend your time in this unique country, you are bound to leave with a heavy heart and a desire to return again soon to this exceptionally beautiful Southern African country.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Zambian Kwacha
Symbol: ZK
ISO code: ZMW
Subunit: Ngwee
Banknotes: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 kwacha
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50 ngwee, 1 kwacha
Banking
Card Transactions: Limited
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited acceptance
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Weekends: Limited hours in some locations
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Zambia Airways
International Airports: Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN)
Domestic Airports: Yes
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: No
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Limited
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: No
Water taxis: No
Leisure cruises: No
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: No
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine: Zambian cuisine features a variety of dishes, including Nshima (maize porridge), which is often served with meat, vegetables, or fish. Other popular dishes include Ifisashi (vegetables cooked in peanut sauce) and Biltong (dried meat).
Drinks: Mosquito (fermented maize), Chibwantu (traditional beer), and Munkoyo (fermented drink made from maize or millet).
Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants if a service charge is not included.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies
Average temperature: 25°C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 20°C
Winter:
Average highs: 25°C
Average lows: 15°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season from June to August when wildlife viewing is at its best. However, the wet season from November to April offers lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: No
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Limited
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited
Libraries: Limited
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type C, Type D, Type G
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
