Zambia

Located in the heart of Southern Africa, Zambia offers visitors an authentic African experience complete with thrilling adventure activities, rich cultural heritage and abundant wildlife found within its vast national parks and wilderness areas. Spend your evenings admiring the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, after an exhilarating day of white-water rafting on the mighty Zambezi River. For a more relaxed experience, cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Kariba aboard a houseboat, watching elephants gather along the shoreline while trying your hand at catching the elusive tigerfish. From unforgettable safari adventures to breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, Zambia offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty and adventure. Whatever your interests, this remarkable country is sure to leave a lasting impression and a desire to return.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Zambian Kwacha 
Symbol: ZK 
ISO code: ZMW 
Subunit: Ngwee 
Banknotes: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100  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 , Proflight.
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: Yes


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: Chibwantu (a thick, fermented drink made from maize grits) and Munkoyo (a mildly fermented drink made from maize and local roots).

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.


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