Preparation and Health
1. Vaccinations and Health Precautions
- Consult a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and yellow fever.
- Both Zambia and Zimbabwe are high-risk malaria areas, so it’s important to take prophylactic medication and use mosquito repellent.
2. Travel Insurance
- Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and potential evacuation.
3. Visas
- Check visa requirements for Zambia and Zimbabwe based on your nationality. Some travelers may be eligible for a KAZA Univisa, which allows multiple entries between the two countries.
Packing Essentials
4. Clothing
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors like khaki or beige to blend in with the environment and avoid attracting insects.
- Bring a warm jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings, especially during the dry season (May to October).
- Include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
5. Footwear
- Pack sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots for bush walks and game drives.
6. Accessories
- Binoculars and a quality camera with a zoom lens for wildlife viewing and photography.
- A power bank and plug adapter (Type C, D, and G plugs for Zambia; Type D and G for Zimbabwe).
On Safari
7. Guided Tours
- Participate in guided game drives and walking safaris led by experienced local guides for safety and enhanced wildlife viewing experiences.
8. Respect Wildlife
- Follow all instructions from guides and keep a safe distance from animals. Do not attempt to feed or touch wildlife.
9 Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of bottled or purified water, especially in the hot months, to stay hydrated.
10. Cultural Etiquette
- Be respectful towards local customs and cultures. Engage with local people and learn about their traditions.
Money and Communication
11. Currency
- The Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) is used in Zambia, while Zimbabwe primarily uses the US Dollar (USD) alongside the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL). Carry some small notes for small purchases and tips.
- Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and lodges but may be less common in rural areas.
12. Connectivity
- Internet access may be limited in remote safari areas. Inform family and friends about potential communication delays.
Environmental Responsibility
13. Sustainable Practices
- Support eco-friendly lodges and camps that practice sustainable tourism.
- Minimize plastic use and dispose of waste response
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
Health and Medical Information
Preparation and Health
1. Vaccinations and Health Precautions
- Consult a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and yellow fever.
- Both Zambia and Zimbabwe are high-risk malaria areas, so it’s important to take prophylactic medication and use mosquito repellent.
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.
