Zambia Travel
Zambia is commonly regarded as one of the most beautiful, friendly, diverse, and unspoilt countries on the entire African continent. Officially known as the Republic of Zambia, this landlocked country is bordered by eight others and has a year-round tropical climate. The capital city is Lusaka, located in the south-central part of the country. However, this is often mistaken for its infinitely more famous smaller city, Livingstone, which is on the south-western border. For the same reasons, the country also has four international airports servicing the different parts. Lusaka: Kenneth Kaunda International, Livingstone: Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International, Ndola and Mfuwe to the far south.
Aside from the flights, self-driving is easy and encouraged though they do have a reliable bus network too. TAZARA, the legendary railway connecting Tanzania and Zambia, is an interesting experience for the more intrepid traveller. Aside from the majestic Victoria Falls, the country has more natural water resources than any other southern African country, not to mention the famous Zambezi River. The many National Parks offer great opportunities for safari, while bustling urban areas offer a taste of eclectic Zambian culture.
HIGHLIGHTS
While Victoria Falls, not surprisingly, tends to steal the limelight, Zambia has an array of wonderful waterfalls, rapids, and cataracts on the many rich waterways that dissect the country. The game reserves provide a pristine sanctuary to a wide variety of wildlife and boast some of the best game viewing opportunities in the world. These include the North and South Parks on the Luangwa River, the wide expanse of the Lower Zambezi, and the vast and less-explored Kafue region.
There is a range of action activities, from more pedestrian excursions such as fly fishing and sunset cruises to the more adventurous options including white-water rafting, micro-light flights, or bungee jumping. For those who have seen enough wildlife or had their fair share of adrenaline rushes, this safari destination does not disappoint. From golf courses, exploring local villages, luxury spas, or cruising in a houseboat, it offers all and more.
WILDLIFE
Zambia can easily boast about its array of wildlife, birds, fish and more due to its tropical climate and ever-flowing rivers that support it all. From endemic Lechwe, zebra, and giraffe to endangered rhinos and wild dogs, a safari in Zambia is always rewarding. There are a total of 242 mammalian species here, and many endemic to the country. But Zambia attracts the avid fisherman or birder almost more so than the safari-goer. An estimated 757 bird species are known to exist and roughly 490 known fish species, the Tigerfish is one of the most popular.
ACCOMMODATION
Zambia has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious riverside lodges, 5-star hotels, tented safari camps, rustic and remote bush camps, to idyllic guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts. There are also self-catering chalets, backpackers, campsites, and a houseboat or even a mud hut in a rural village where travellers can experience true Zambian village life and fare. There are many towns dotted throughout the country where travellers will come across most modern conveniences, but the local markets in the villages are a must-see too.
WHEN TO GO
The dry season runs from May to October. This is the time to go to Zambia for the best game viewing, along with pleasantly mild daytime temperatures. However, September and October can get extremely hot. The wet season, December to April, is commonly called the “Green Season” as the bush is beautifully thick and green.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
| Time Zone | GMT +2 (CAT) |
| Dial Code | +260 |
| Currency | Zambian Kwacha |
| Language | English |
| Water | Mostly drinkable |
| Power | Plug C, D and G & 230V/50Hz |
| Dress Code | Neutral for Safaris |
| Wi-Fi | Widely available |
SAFARI PARKS
Click here to discover all our safari parks in Zambia.
Zambia Safari Ideas
Zambia Travel
Map of Zambia
Zambia Accommodation
Zambia Travel
Frequently Asked Questions
It is always important to take into consideration the possible health risks when travelling to Africa. There are various tropical diseases in Zambia, so vaccinations for the most common risks are recommended. However, travellers should always check with their local Travel Clinic. Vaccinations for the following are usually recommended: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, malaria, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR),
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In the major towns of Zambia, the tap water is purified and therefore safe to drink. When travelling to more remote areas, it is advisable to boil the water first or drink bottled water.
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Over the last decade, safaris and lodges in Zambia have become more family-friendly, offering privacy, activities for everyone, and even discounted rates for children.
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Depending on the type of safari you opt for you, will depend on the level of fitness you’ll need. Walking safaris require a certain level of fitness, while guided game drives are perfect for any discerning traveller.
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Most tour operators and travel agents will recommend purchasing travel insurance before arriving in Zambia. Most travellers include emergency air evacuation if they are travelling to remote areas of the country. We advise that travellers talk to their travel consultant before travelling.
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International travellers require an international driving permit if they want to drive in Zambia. Cars drive on the left side of the road. Travellers from other SADC countries with foreign licenses are accepted and recognized in Zambia.
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Zambia is relatively conservation, so travellers should dress appropriately. Furthermore, eating is always only with the right hand, handshakes when greeting are important, public displays of affection are uncommon, and people generally refer to each other by Mr. or Mrs.
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The best time to visit Zambia on a safari holiday is generally between May and October—the dry season—as this season offers the best game viewing opportunities and ideal weather. The wet season generally occurs between December and April.
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Zambia offers a wide range of accommodation options. These include luxury hotels and resorts, guesthouses, bed and breakfast, and camping options. Glamping is a popular option when travelling to Africa, and offers the creature comforts of home during a stay in the wild.
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To enter Zambia, travellers must have a valid passport valid for at least six months, as well as at least three blank pages. Visas depend on the country of origin, so travellers are advised to check online. However, if visas are required, they can usually be obtained online or upon arrival.
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