best travel guide to zambia

Zambia Travel Guide

Your ultimate zambia travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in zambia. great for first-time and returning travelers..

The Smoke that Thunders is a suitable name for this impressive waterfall.

You can hear the roar from afar and feel the power when you are up close. Located in Livingstone, Zambia on the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls is one of the top sites to see in all of Africa.

The world’s largest waterfall by sheer volume, it dwarfs our beloved Niagara Falls in Canada.

Zambia, once known as Northern Rhodesia, is a former British colony and also the  adventure capital of Africa! 

This Zambia travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Zambia

• Zambia power voltage is 230V 50Hz;  Plug C, D & G
• The Zambia currency is the Zambian kwacha and is around 5,000 ZMK to 1 USD
• Single and double entry visas can be obtained at the airport, border crossings or your local Zambian embassy. Multi-entry visas must be obtained in advance from an embassy.
• Beware of Chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. This outbreak continues to affect parts, Africa. Symptoms can take up to 12 days to appear but usually begin within 3-7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
• Symptoms generally include fever and joint pain; other symptoms can include fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and rash.
• Travelers spending a lot of time outdoors or visiting game parks have an increased risk of being bitten by a tsetse fly which can cause African Sleeping Sickness. Remember that these flies: bite during the day, are attracted to bright, dark colors and can bite through lightweight clothing.
• Camouflage or military clothing is not permitted so don’t pack it
• The water is not potable ; drink only bottled water.
• SIM Cards can be bought in major cities. Airtel, MTN and Vodafone are the carriers and prices are very reasonable.

Things to See and Do in Zambia

• We spent 3 days at the falls in Livingstone and we filled it with not stop thrills from start to finish. Dream Trip: Destination Victoria Falls
• Go on a walking safari to South Luangwa, which is one of the best places in Africa to spot big game on foot
• Go Whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River
• Sit at Devil’s Pool on the top of Victoria Falls
• Take a microlight flight or helicopter tour over Victoria Falls

Accommodation

Budget:  You can find a variety of hostels and budget hotels for 185-550 ZMW per night. Enjoy hot showers, dorms or private rooms, shared kitchens, and nearby restaurants and shopping areas. Staff can sometimes help you out with finding good deals on local safaris or for general travel advice. 

Mid-Range:  For mid-range hotels, expect to pay around 660-1,800 ZMW per night. Amenities include rooms with flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee facilities, an outdoor pool with a lounge area, free breakfast, and a hotel restaurant and bar. 

High-End:  For five-star hotels, you will pay around 2,000-3,300 ZMW per night. These hotels come with private suites with terraces and living rooms, spa services, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a fitness center, multiple hotel restaurants, a polished bar, and room service.

Staples of Zambian cuisine include nshima (pounded white maize), vegetables, stews, fish, insects (especially caterpillars), and beer. Nshima is one of the most common items at any meal and is sometimes a meal itself with vegetables and meat or fish added to it. If you are near a market and want a treat, look for vitumbuwa (fried dough balls). Plan to spend around 160 ZMW per day on food.

The Best Ways to Get Around Zambia

Getting to zambia:.

Flights:  The main airport to fly into is the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, located 16 miles from the capital of Lusaka. Other airports include the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, though it mainly takes African and British flights. You can check for the best flights to Zambia on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses:  Public buses are a cheap way to get around towns, though rides may be bumpy. Fares will cost about 40 ZMW. You can also look for private buses that go between major destinations (such as Lusaka to Livingstone for 120 ZMW) and are generally smoother rides. It is best to book at least one day in advance. 

Taxis:  Taxis are not metered, so make sure to check around to see what a fair price is. Licensed taxis will have the word “taxi” on the top of the vehicle with two stripes.

Car Rental:  You might be able to find some cars, but driving is not as recommended if you do not know the roads. Many rental companies will not lend you a car if you do not have a chauffeur with you. It is best if you have transportation already provided for you, such as with a safari company. If you insist on a car, it can cost 4,750 ZMW per day. 

Uber:  There is no Uber, but there is Ulendo, a taxi app which operates similarly to Uber.

When to go To Zambia

The best time to go to Zambia is between the months of June and November. During this time, it is the dry season, temperatures are in the 80s to low 90s, and you have the best chance of seeing the most wildlife.

However, if you are an avid birdwatcher, March will give you great opportunities to see the most birds, though know that it is still the wet season.

Where to Stay in Zambia

Taj Pamodzi, Lusaka:  Just a short trip to the Lusaka National Museum and the Kabwata Cultural Village, this is a great four-star hotel in Lusaka. Choose from a variety of rooms (standard rooms with flat-screen TVs and balconies to suites to whirlpool tubs and dining areas), and enjoy the numerous hotel amenities, including free breakfast, a squash court, a gym, an outdoor pool and hot tub, a hotel restaurant with a café and bar, a steam room, and a sauna. 

Victoria Falls Waterfront :  Stay just 5.5 miles from Victoria Falls at this hotel. Set on the Zambezi River, see the river from your hotel room while enjoying two outdoor pools, a riverside hotel and restaurant, a sauna, spa services, a fitness center, and a shuttle to Victoria Falls Airport. 

Zikomo Safari Camp :  If you’re heading to South Luangwa National Park, stay at this all-inclusive camp. Across the river from the National Park, stay in a chalet with a bathroom, electric fan, mosquito net, and a private deck. Activities include safari walks and tours of the South Luangwa National Park, as well as tours to the local village and nearby island.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and  VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

What to Pack for Zambia

Zambia has a tropical climate modified by altitude (elevation).

It has a dry season from May to the end of October and a wet season from November to April.

During the wet season, some areas become inaccessible and many camps in Kafue, Lower Zambezi, and more remote parks are closed. 

The dry season is divided into the cool dry season (May to August) and the hot dry season (September and October).

• Waterproof bag  – the bag has two functions, protecting your stuff from the rain and also from the dust, especially if you’re traveling to drier regions.
• Footwear  – especially important if going you are heading on a safari! Pack a pair of lightweight, durable, waterproof and comfortable shoes and also a pair of flip-flops or sandals that you can change into after a long day of sightseeing.
• Protection from the elements – pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a loose sarong or wrap to cover yourself from the sun and bug-spray to prevent getting bitten by a mosquito (that might have malaria!)
• Layers – pack the basic tropical clothes and make sure to include long pants, long-sleeve tops and some warm clothes for those chilly nights.
• Avoid packing dark colored clothes  – tsetse flies are drawn to dark colors, like blue and black clothing, and their bite can give you African Sleeping Sickness. Stick to light, neutral colors but avoid packing white clothes as they will get dirty and dusty pretty quickly.
• Pack for Humidity  – for humid weather it is best to pack fabrics that breathe as much as possible and natural fabrics, like cotton, linen or rayon (avoiding silk, wool and polyester). Clothing should be loose and comfortable to encourage the flow of air and allow moisture to evaporate

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel.

See our packing tips:  packing list for smart travel  &  How to Pack for a Safari

Zambia Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Zambia Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Zambia  click here.

Incredible Things to Do in Victoria Falls, Zambia

Zambia travel tips: What you should know before you visit Zambia

We are proud members of the U.S. Peace Corps community and love to partner with our fellow Peace Corps Volunteers, who often have some of the best insights into the culture and authentic travel experiences available in their host country. We asked Lianne Bronzo, a recent Volunteer in Zambia, to share her expertise on travel in Zambia.

Africa is a massive continent hosting a great deal of diversity in terms of people, cultures, and landscapes. Then within each country is even more diversity and uniqueness. Zambia is no exception.

What is it like to travel in Zambia?

While the most famous landmark is Mosi-o-tunya (the smoke that thunders), most commonly referred to as Victoria Falls , there’s a plethora of pure beauty hidden in pockets spanning the country.

Zambia is about the size of Texas, but traveling between destinations can take much longer due to the road networks and conditions, but that means less construction and more natural landscapes. So even with the logistical challenges, those that choose to venture here will be rewarded with unique scenery and exciting wildlife among little to no tourist crowds.

Although there aren’t any beaches in the landlocked country, Zambia is drowning with rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and even a few natural hot springs.

Perhaps the best part about living in Zambia for the past two years has been getting to know some of the warmest people I’ve truly ever met. People are quick to smile and have taught me so much in terms of hard work, patience, and resilience. I must admit that Zambia is the most difficult place I’ve ever traveled due to the vast distances alone, but it is grossly underrated as a travel destination.

Zambia’s Highlights

Wildlife: Zambia is home to the all of the Big Five, in addition to an abundance of other majestic animals such as wild dogs. Some of the best places for wildlife viewing are South and North Luangwa National Parks , Lower Zambezi National Park , Kasanka National Park (specifically to experience the largest mammal migration in the world!), and Kafue National Park . One may find the safari costs and crowds much smaller than neighboring Tanzania.

Water: Lake Tanganikya, Lake Bangweulu, and Lake Kariba are some of the large bodies of water suitable for swimming, fishing, boat rides, or just lazing at the beach. The Zambezi River is also a popular spot for water activities.

If you’re itching to chase more than one waterfall, Northern Zambia has got plenty. Kundalila, Chishimba, Kalambo, Kabweluma, and Lumangwe are a few noteworthy waterfalls , but there are plenty more in the watery north. Ngonye Falls is another impressive site with falls spanning 1km in Western Province. Getting to these waterfalls can be tricky as there is little public transport, so hitchhiking, hiring a private taxi, bicycling, or self-driving are the only options. You will be rewarded for these efforts by likely being the only people there to swim in the delightful falls! Most of these places have basic camp sites as well.

Culture: 73 languages are spoken in Zambia and they all come with their own cultures and traditions. Some tribes have annual festivals such as the Bemba festival (Ukusefya pa Ngwena) and Lozi Kuomboka ceremony. Check out the Zambia Tourism website for details.

Where to Stay in Zambia

These are some of the best places to stay, recommended by Peace Corps Volunteers, around Zambia:

Where to stay in South Luangwa National Park: Marula Lodge – Affordable accommodations with a friendly staff and discounts for Peace Corps Volunteers!

Where to stay in Lusaka, Zambia: Lusaka Backpackers and Natwanga Backpakers are the most popular places for Peace Corps volunteers.

Where to stay in Livingstone, Zambia: Many of the backpacker places are more or less the same. Cafe Zambezi, Fawlty Towers, Jollyboys Backpackers, and Livingstone Backpackers are the most popular spots.

I recommend Fawlty Towers in Livingstone because they have a nice garden area and pool in the back and offer a free shuttle bus to Victoria Falls. 

Where to stay in North Zambia: Lake Chila Lodge is a popular spot for the Mbala volunteers up North. It’s a good stopping point when visiting Lake Tanganikya and Kalombo Falls.

Samfya Marines Beach Lodge is popular amongst volunteers, but may be a bit on the expensive side. It has as private beach.

If you must stop in Nakonde , I recommend Muchinga Exquisite Lodge for a safe and cheap place. I don’t recommend Nakonde at all, but some people stop over en route to Tanzania if traveling by land and not the train.

Practical Zambia Travel Information

When to visit Zambia

May – July: Cool dry season. You won’t see a drop of rain, but it can get quite chilly at night in Lusaka. August – October: Hot dry season. Fields burn to prepare for planting season to add more to the heat. October is especially brutal, though the dry season is a good time for wildlife viewing. Victoria Falls may not be as powerful toward the end of the dry season. November: First half is dry and then the rains trickle in toward the end of the month, depending on the region (the north is wetter than the south). This is the best time to view the bat migration at Kasanka National Park. December – April: Rainy season. Vibrant green landscapes and mangoes litter the ground, though wildlife is more difficult to spot. Some unpaved roads become impassable during heavy rains.

Costs in Zambia

Like most destinations, budgets can vary wildly. Barebone backpackers can survive on as little as $30 USD per day but the sky is the limit for those seeking luxurious experiences. Most people will find a suitable budget to meet their comfort levels.

Average costs as of March 2020: A bottle of local beer: K10 ($0.66 USD) A filling Zambian meal of nshima (thick maize porridge), fish, and vegetables: K25-50 ($1.60 – $3.20 USD) A western meal: K60-150 ($4 USD – $10 USD) A bed in a dorm room: From K100 ($6.60 USD) A double bed in a very basic lodge: From K150 ($9.95 USD) A comfortable private room in a nicer lodge: From K300 ($19.90 USD) A bus from Livingstone to Lusaka: From K200 ($13.27 USD) but constantly changing due to gas prices

Communication: Cell phones in Zambia

If you have an unlocked phone, it’s easy to get a SIM card for less than a dollar, though you will need to show your passport. From there, you can buy Talk Time to add money for purchasing minutes and data at affordable prices. 4G is available in cities, but the network is spotty otherwise. Airtel and MTN are the two main providers. WiFi isn’t very common.

Getting Around Zambia

Transport will be a large chunk of your budget as well as time spent in the country. But remember that it’s all part of the journey and worth it if you have the time!

Bus: Large “luxury” buses shift people between all major cities with only a few stops, so moderate your fluids intake on long rides! They generally leave on time and it is advisable to purchase tickets at the station the day before. By law, buses are not allowed to operate at night for safety reasons. Gospel music is often played loudly on the bus, so bring some headphones or ear plugs if you are sensitive to loud music.

Mini-bus: They only leave when full and make frequent stops along the journey, so this option can be longer and less comfortable than the bus even though the prices are comparable.

Train: There are slow passenger trains from Livingstone to the Copperbelt as well as the TAZARA from Kapiri-mposhi all the way to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The trains are notorious for being late, but it is an affordable and safe option for those who have the time and genuinely enjoy train travel.

Air: Small planes fly between Lusaka and tourist spots like Livingstone and Mfuwe. It is also possible to charter flights if you’ve got the cash but not the time.

Taxi: Private taxis can be expensive, but cost-effective if split between a group. I recommend using the Ulendo app, which is similar to Uber, when moving within Lusaka.

Self-drive: For freedom and flexibility, rent a car to drive yourself. Some tarmac roads can be laden with potholes and are quite narrow, so it can be intimidating to share the road with semi-trucks. It is not advisable to drive at night. A 4WD is recommended if you plan to veer off the tarmac. Don’t always trust Google maps in terms of travel times – it often will be slower. And remember to drive on the left!

Hitchhiking: I don’t officially recommend hitchhiking, but if you are comfortable doing it and have prior experience, you’ll find it relatively easy and safe hitching in Zambia. Catching lifts is a common form of transportation among locals, especially in areas that lack sufficient public transport. It is standard to pay a fee to the driver, but it is often less than what the bus would cost and significantly more comfortable. Semi-truck drivers are the most likely to give lifts but private vehicles do as well. I’ve met some interesting people while hitchhiking around Zambia. As always, use your best judgment and exercise caution.

Zambia’s Languages

English is one of the official languages and should fare a traveler well in most towns and tourist places in Zambia. However, there are 73 local languages and cultures throughout the country. People generally appreciate it when a foreigner tries to speak the local language, but it can also be insulting to come at somebody using a language that they don’t speak.

Here’s a general breakdown of the most popular languages in the regions that should be safe to use, but again, there is so much variation even within these provinces.

Lusaka: English, Nyanja. Honestly a little of everything! Southern Province: Tonga Western Province: Lozi Eastern Province: Nyanja Central, Luapula, Muchinga, Northern, and Copperbelt Provinces: Bemba Northwestern Province: Kaonde

Cultural things to know and travel etiquette in Zambia

Cultures vary greatly between tribes, but here are a few general tips that are useful for visitors to know:

– Traditionally, greetings are of utmost importance. When you pass someone in the rural area, acknowledge each other’s presence with a greeting. This isn’t practiced so much in towns, but it’s still important to say hello and how are you before getting right down to business.

– Both men and women should wear long skirts or pants as thighs are sexualized body parts.

– Zambia is a Christian nation, so transport can be trickier on Sundays and some businesses may be closed.

– Eat and shake hands with your right hand only.

– Tipping is not expected but always appreciated.

– If somebody calls you fat, it is a compliment, so try with all of your soul not to feel bad about it. I am a small Asian girl and got called fat on several occasions, though by people I know and not just strangers.

– Be mindful about taking photos of people. First, ask yourself what the purpose of the photo is, if you would take such a photo of a random person in your home country, and what will be done with that photo. Ensure you ask for consent.

Is Zambia safe for travelers?

Zambia is generally peaceful and a very safe place to be. Like anywhere, always exercise caution, especially in towns at nighttime. Try to avoid walking alone at night. Take trusted taxi drivers. Don’t flash around your valuables. You know, basic safety stuff you’d do at home!

It is pretty safe for a woman to travel solo in Zambia, but cat calling and harassment are not uncommon in busy areas. I sometimes feel uncomfortable being squished amongst men in public transport, so opt to sit in the front near the driver if possible. Befriending a woman nearby not only helps alleviate the situation if someone is bothering you, but Zambian women are generally strong and cool to get to know!

Homosexuality is illegal in Zambia unfortunately. LGBT travelers may find it difficult to have to hide their identity. Since I cannot speak to the experiences of LGBT individuals, I asked a friend what his advice would be for queer travelers in Zambia. He advised to avoid public displays of affection (this goes for hetero couples as well). If you want to be extra cautious, disable dating apps. He also mentioned that nose rings may be a signal for homosexuality, so taking it out may be a good idea, particularly if you are male-identifying.

Staying Healthy

I am not a doctor trained to give health advice, but it is a good idea to do your research and perhaps see a travel doctor before coming to the region. Some concerns travelers may encounter are malaria, tuberculosis, Bilharzia, giardia, and traveler’s diarrhea.

Some medications can be found locally and are cheaper here than your home country. Prevention is key! Opt to stay at places that have bed nets, drink clean water, and keep a small medical kit with a thermometer and malaria test kit. Oral rehydration solution packets can also be handy.

*Take 10% off any travel-size bug spray at rangerready.com with code IntentionalTravelers10 >

General Zambia Travel Tips

– Always travel with toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and small change. Sometimes it can be difficult to break 100 kwacha bills.

– Look out for citenge material or traditional fabric. You can get clothes and accessories tailored affordably. Makes for a great souvenir or gift!

– When at produce markets, it is standard to ask for a “top up” if you buy a lot of things. Just say “mbasela?” and the vendor may laugh and throw in an extra banana.

– You must pay for plastic bags at many supermarkets, so that’s another incentive to carry around a reusable bag!

– Download the iOverlander app for information about landmarks and accommodation. It’s helpful even if you are not driving in the region.

– Join the Mzungu group chats   to connect with fellow travelers in the region.

– If you haven’t already, educate yourself about the white savior complex and poverty porn and keep these in mind if you are seeking to volunteer or go on “village tours” in the region.

Mwaiseni ku Zambia! Welcome to Zambia.

✈️ Protect your Zambia trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

You might also like:

– 6 Places You Must Visit in Malawi – Off the Beaten Path Small Town Digital Nomad Destinations – A Quick Guide to Couchsurfing – 5 Selfish Benefits of Peace Corps

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• Travel Tips

The Ultimate Zambia Travel Guide

Published: October 15, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Haleigh Kopp

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate Zambia travel guide! Located in the heart of southern Africa, Zambia is a breathtaking destination that offers an array of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the rich wildlife reserves, this landlocked country has something to captivate every traveler.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking adrenaline-fueled activities or a nature lover yearning to explore the diverse ecosystems, Zambia has it all. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, encounter unique wildlife species, and embrace the warmth of Zambian hospitality.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll provide you with invaluable tips and insights to make the most of your trip to Zambia. From the best time to visit to visa requirements, local cuisine to accommodation options, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.

Discover the hidden gems of Zambia by embarking on wildlife safaris in the iconic South Luangwa National Park or Lower Zambezi National Park. Indulge your adventurous side with heart-pounding activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and walking safaris. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Zambian culture by visiting local villages and participating in traditional ceremonies.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo expedition, Zambia offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the unspoiled beauty of Zambia.

Best Time to Visit Zambia

Planning your trip to Zambia? Consider the best time to visit, as the weather and wildlife sightings vary throughout the year. The peak travel seasons in Zambia fall between May and October, during the dry winter months when the weather is mild, and wildlife concentrations are high.

May to August is an ideal time to explore Zambia, as the weather is cooler, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. It is also the prime time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them during game drives and boat safaris. However, do note that popular parks like South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi can get crowded during this period.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April and September. The weather is still pleasant, and the parks are less crowded. This allows for a more intimate encounter with the wildlife and a chance to explore the parks in a more tranquil setting.

From November to March, Zambia experiences its rainy season, characterized by high temperatures and frequent downpours. While this is generally considered the low season, it does have its own unique charm. The lush green landscapes, blooming flora, and baby animals make it an enchanting time for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

However, keep in mind that some remote areas may become inaccessible due to flooding, and certain lodges and camps might be closed during this period. It’s essential to check with your travel operator and plan accordingly.

Overall, when planning your visit to Zambia, consider the activities you want to engage in, your tolerance for crowds, and your preferences for weather conditions. With careful consideration, you’ll be able to choose the perfect time to experience Zambia’s natural beauty and wildlife in all its glory.

Getting to Zambia

When it comes to getting to Zambia, there are several convenient options for travelers. The country is served by international airlines, and there are direct flights from major cities in Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world.

Most international visitors arrive at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia. This airport is well-connected to various destinations, making it an accessible entry point. From there, you can easily connect to other domestic airports or continue your journey to different regions of Zambia.

If you’re planning to visit the iconic Victoria Falls, you may consider flying directly to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, which is located near the falls. This airport receives both international and domestic flights, and it offers a convenient gateway to explore the wonders of the Zambezi River.

For those traveling from neighboring countries, road transportation is an option. Zambia has a well-maintained road network, and you can enter the country through border crossings with Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana , and Angola. However, keep in mind that road travel can be time-consuming and may require multiple visa entries, depending on your itinerary.

Once you arrive in Zambia, various transportation options are available to help you navigate the country. Domestic flights are offered by local airlines, connecting major cities and popular tourist destinations. This is a convenient option if you want to save time and cover long distances.

If you prefer a more scenic and immersive experience, consider using the extensive bus network in Zambia. Buses are affordable and connect major cities and towns, allowing you to witness the landscapes and interact with locals along the way.

In urban areas like Lusaka and Livingstone, you’ll find taxi services and ride-hailing apps like Uber. Car rental services are also available if you prefer the freedom and flexibility of having your own vehicle.

Before traveling to Zambia, it’s essential to check the latest travel advisories, visa requirements, and transportation options available. Adequate planning and research will ensure a smooth and seamless journey to this captivating African destination.

Visa Requirements

Before traveling to Zambia, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the visa requirements to ensure a hassle-free entry into the country. The visa regulations may vary depending on your nationality, so it’s essential to check with the Zambian diplomatic mission or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.

Many nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at the international airports in Lusaka and Livingstone. This visa allows for a single entry and is valid for a specific duration, usually up to 90 days. Payment for the visa can be made in cash or by card, and it’s advisable to have the exact amount in US dollars or Zambian Kwacha.

If you prefer to have your visa arranged in advance, you can apply for an e-Visa through the Zambian Immigration Department’s official website. The e-Visa allows for single or multiple entries and has a validity period of up to 90 days.

For those planning an extended stay or multiple visits to Zambia, it’s advisable to apply for a visa at a Zambian embassy or consulate prior to your arrival. This will allow for a longer validity period and multiple entries, if needed.

When applying for a visa, you will typically be required to provide a completed application form, a valid passport with at least six months of validity, recent passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation in Zambia, a return or onward ticket, and evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay.

It’s important to note that visa regulations are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check for any updates or changes in the visa requirements before you travel. Additionally, some nationalities may be exempt from visa requirements or may be eligible for visa waivers based on bilateral agreements.

For travelers planning to visit Zambia in combination with other countries in the region, such as Zimbabwe or Botswana, you may consider obtaining a multi-entry visa or a UniVisa. This special visa allows for multiple entries into both Zambia and Zimbabwe and is valid for up to 30 days. It offers a convenient option for exploring the breathtaking Victoria Falls from both sides of the border.

Remember, it is always better to be well-prepared and have the appropriate visa in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free entry into Zambia, allowing you to focus on enjoying your incredible adventure in this beautiful country.

Currency and Exchange Rates

The currency of Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). When visiting Zambia, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local currency and exchange rates to ensure a smooth financial experience during your trip.

Exchanging foreign currency into Zambian Kwacha is relatively easy, as there are several banks and authorized foreign exchange bureaus located in major cities and towns. The exchange rates may vary slightly between different establishments, so it’s advisable to compare rates and fees before making any transactions.

It’s recommended to carry some cash in the form of US dollars or euros as these currencies are widely accepted and can be easily exchanged into Zambian Kwacha. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions and in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

ATMs are available in major cities and towns, and they dispense cash in Zambian Kwacha. However, it’s important to note that some ATMs may have limitations on the maximum withdrawal amount, so it’s advisable to check with your bank regarding any international withdrawal limits or fees that may apply.

When using your credit or debit card in Zambia, inform your bank or card provider about your travel plans in advance to avoid any unexpected issues with your transactions. Additionally, be cautious when using your card at smaller establishments or in more remote areas, as card payment facilities may be limited.

It’s also worth noting that the use of traveler’s cheques in Zambia is not very common, and it can be challenging to find establishments that accept them. Therefore, it’s generally more convenient to rely on cash or card payments.

Lastly, it’s important to be aware of current exchange rates and be cautious when exchanging money with unauthorized individuals or street vendors. It’s always best to use reputable establishments and banks to ensure fair rates and avoid any scams or counterfeit currency.

By familiarizing yourself with the currency and exchange rates in Zambia, you’ll be well-prepared to handle your financial transactions and make the most of your trip without any concerns or inconveniences.

Transportation in Zambia

When it comes to getting around in Zambia, there are several transportation options available to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re exploring the cities or venturing into the wilderness, here are some common modes of transportation in Zambia:

1. Public Buses: Public buses, known locally as “minibuses” or “kombis,” are a popular and affordable mode of transportation in Zambia. These minibuses operate on fixed routes and can be crowded, but they provide a convenient way to travel between cities and towns. Keep in mind that schedules may not always be reliable, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in urban areas like Lusaka and Livingstone. Some taxis operate with meters, while others require negotiation of fares upfront. It’s advisable to use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps for a more reliable and safer experience.

3. Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Zambia at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate in major cities and at airports. It’s important to have a valid driver’s license and familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and road conditions before embarking on a self-drive adventure.

4. Domestic Flights: If you’re looking to save time and cover long distances, domestic flights are available between major cities and popular tourist destinations. Local airlines offer regular flights, allowing you to reach your desired destinations quickly and conveniently.

5. Boats and Ferries: Zambia is home to stunning rivers and lakes, including the Zambezi River and Lake Kariba. Boats and ferries provide scenic transportation options, particularly for reaching remote areas or crossing bodies of water.

6. Guided Tours: Booking guided tours with reputable tour operators is a popular choice for exploring national parks, wildlife reserves, and cultural attractions in Zambia. These tours often include transportation, accommodation, and knowledgeable guides who can enhance your experience.

It’s important to note that transportation options may vary depending on your specific destination and the remoteness of the area you plan to visit. If you’re unsure about the best mode of transportation for your trip, consult with local tour operators or seek advice from fellow travelers who have visited Zambia.

Remember to plan your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, and always prioritize safety by choosing reputable transportation providers. With the right transportation choices, you can easily navigate Zambia and make the most of your journey in this vibrant and diverse country.

Top Tourist Attractions in Zambia

Zambia is famous for its exceptional natural beauty and diverse wildlife, offering visitors a plethora of captivating attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or culture seeker, there’s something for everyone in this remarkable country. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Zambia:

1. Victoria Falls: Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Also known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” the waterfall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination. Experience the power and beauty of the falls through activities like a guided tour, scenic helicopter flights, or adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting.

2. South Luangwa National Park: Recognized as one of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, South Luangwa National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Embark on thrilling game drives or walking safaris to spot an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos. The park’s picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems make it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.

3. Lower Zambezi National Park: Nestled along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, the Lower Zambezi National Park offers a pristine wilderness experience. Encounter herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, and elusive predators while exploring the park on game drives, walking safaris, or canoeing trips. The park’s scenic landscapes and beautiful river views provide a truly immersive African safari experience.

4. Kafue National Park: Covering a massive area of over 22,000 square kilometers, Kafue National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa. Its diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, including big cats, antelopes, and over 400 bird species. Take a boat safari on the Kafue River or explore the park on a guided game drive to witness the incredible biodiversity of this untouched wilderness.

5. Livingstone: Named after the legendary explorer Dr. David Livingstone, the town of Livingstone is the gateway to the Victoria Falls. Explore the colonial-era architecture, visit the Livingstone Museum to learn about the region’s history, or embark on thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, microlight flights, or sunset cruises on the Zambezi River.

6. Lake Kariba: Created by the Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River, Lake Kariba is a vast man-made reservoir known for its serene beauty and excellent fishing opportunities. Enjoy boat cruises, fishing trips, or simply relax on the shores, taking in the stunning sunset views.

These are just a few of the many remarkable attractions that Zambia has to offer. From its natural wonders to its cultural heritage, Zambia will captivate you with its beauty, adventure, and warm hospitality. So, pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this extraordinary African destination.

Wildlife Safaris in Zambia

Zambia is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering incredible opportunities to witness diverse species in their natural habitats. With its vast national parks and wildlife reserves, the country is renowned for its authentic and immersive wildlife safaris. Here’s everything you need to know about wildlife safaris in Zambia:

1. South Luangwa National Park: Considered one of Africa’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries, South Luangwa National Park offers exceptional game viewing opportunities. Explore the park on thrilling game drives led by experienced guides, and spot a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and zebras. Night drives provide a chance to encounter elusive nocturnal creatures and witness the park come alive after dark.

2. Lower Zambezi National Park: Nestled along the Zambezi River, Lower Zambezi National Park is famous for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. Embark on game drives, walking safaris, or boat cruises to witness elephants bathing in the river, hippos lazing in the water, and predators on the prowl. Canoeing trips offer a unique perspective, allowing you to experience the park’s wildlife up close while gliding silently on the water.

3. Kafue National Park: Covering a vast area, Kafue National Park is known for its abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Game drives in Kafue offer opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, and antelopes. Birdwatching enthusiasts will be delighted by the park’s rich avian population, with over 400 bird species calling Kafue home.

4. Liuwa Plain National Park: For an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, visit Liuwa Plain National Park. This remote and untouched park is famous for its large wildebeest migration, attracting predators like lions and hyenas. Witness the vast herds across the open grasslands and marvel at the stunning sunsets that the park is known for.

5. North Luangwa National Park: For an adventurous and remote safari experience, North Luangwa National Park is the place to be. This park offers walking safaris, providing an up-close and intimate encounter with the wildlife. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush as you track animals on foot, guided by expert rangers.

When embarking on a wildlife safari in Zambia, it’s important to respect the animals and their natural habitats. Follow the guidance of your experienced guides, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and adhere to the park regulations to ensure the animals’ welfare and your own safety.

With its untamed beauty and remarkable wildlife, Zambia guarantees an unforgettable safari experience that will leave you in awe of the natural world. So, pack your binoculars, camera, and a sense of adventure, and prepare for an incredible journey through Zambia’s mesmerizing wilderness.

Adventure Activities in Zambia

Zambia is not only a destination for wildlife enthusiasts but also an adventure lover’s playground. With its diverse landscapes and thrilling natural wonders, the country offers a wide range of exhilarating activities for adrenaline junkies. Here are some top adventure activities to experience in Zambia:

1. Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls: For an adrenaline rush like no other, take a leap of faith and bungee jump off the famous Victoria Falls Bridge. Plummet 111 meters towards the rushing Zambezi River, with the iconic waterfall as your backdrop.

2. White-Water Rafting: Ride the rapids of the Zambezi River for an unforgettable white-water rafting experience. The powerful currents and breathtaking scenery create an exhilarating adventure as you navigate through the Batoka Gorge, tackling thrilling rapids along the way.

3. Canoeing Safaris: Explore the tranquil waterways of the Zambezi River or the Lower Zambezi National Park on a canoeing safari. Paddle along the river, encountering elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife. It’s an immersive and serene way to connect with nature.

4. Walking Safaris: Get up close and personal with Zambia’s wildlife on a walking safari. Accompanied by professional guides, explore the untamed wilderness on foot, observing animals in their natural habitats, learning about the local flora and fauna, and experiencing the thrill of being in the midst of the African bush.

5. Microlight Flights: Soar above the magnificent landscapes of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls on a microlight flight. Feel the wind in your face as you enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the falls, the Zambezi River, and the surrounding wilderness. It’s a unique perspective that offers a truly unforgettable experience.

6. Helicopter Tours: Take to the skies in a helicopter and marvel at the sheer scale and beauty of the Victoria Falls. Enjoy panoramic views as you fly over the cascading waters, capturing stunning photographs and memories from a bird’s-eye view.

7. Zip-lining and Canopy Tours: Swing through the treetops and soar across the lush landscapes on a thrilling zip-lining or canopy tour. Traverse between platforms and walkways, taking in the beauty of the forest canopy and enjoying an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

These are just a few examples of the many exciting adventures that await in Zambia. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills, breathtaking natural beauty, or a unique perspective on the country’s wonders, Zambia has it all for the adventurous soul.

Cultural Experiences in Zambia

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Zambia and discover the vibrant traditions, customs, and history of its diverse ethnic groups. From engaging with local communities to witnessing traditional ceremonies, Zambia offers a multitude of cultural experiences. Here are some captivating cultural activities to enjoy:

1. Visit Traditional Villages: Journey off the beaten path and visit traditional villages to gain insights into the daily lives of Zambian communities. Interact with locals, learn about their customs, and witness traditional practices such as basket weaving, pottery making, or traditional cooking methods.

2. Attend a Traditional Ceremony: Zambia is known for its vibrant cultural festivals and ceremonies that showcase the customs and beliefs of various ethnic groups. From the Kuomboka ceremony of the Lozi people to the Lwiindi Gonde ceremony of the Tonga people, attending these events offers a unique window into Zambian traditions and rituals.

3. Explore Livingstone Museum: Located in the town of Livingstone, the Livingstone Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Zambia. It houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, exhibits, and historical information that delve into the country’s cultural and natural heritage, providing valuable insights into the diverse ethnic groups of Zambia.

4. Traditional Music and Dance: Experience the vibrant rhythms and energetic dances of Zambia through traditional music and dance performances. Local musicians and dancers showcase their talent and cultural expressions, often accompanied by traditional instruments such as drums, xylophones, and thumb pianos.

5. Taste Zambian Cuisine: Sample the flavors of Zambia by indulging in traditional Zambian cuisine. From nshima (a staple made from maize meal) to traditional stews and grilled meats, the local cuisine reflects the country’s cultural diversity and agricultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local delicacies such as bream fish from Lake Kariba or caterpillar sautéed with spices.

6. Arts and Crafts: Explore local markets and artisan workshops to discover a wide array of Zambian arts and crafts. From intricate wood carvings to vibrant textiles, hand-woven baskets, and beautiful beadwork, these crafts reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of Zambian artisans.

Engaging in these cultural experiences allows you to connect with the people of Zambia, gain a deeper appreciation for their traditions, and contribute to the preservation of their cultural heritage. By embracing the diverse cultures of Zambia, you will leave with unforgettable memories and a greater understanding of this fascinating country.

Accommodation Options in Zambia

Whether you prefer luxury lodges or budget-friendly options, Zambia offers a variety of accommodation choices that cater to different needs and preferences. From wilderness camps to riverside lodges, you’ll find a place to rest and rejuvenate after your adventures. Here are some popular accommodation options in Zambia:

1. Luxury Lodges: Zambia is home to several luxury lodges that provide an indulgent and exclusive experience. These lodges often offer spacious and elegantly-appointed rooms, gourmet dining options, spa facilities, and personalized services. Many luxury lodges are situated in prime wildlife viewing areas, allowing guests to enjoy game drives and other activities in style and comfort.

2. Wilderness Camps: For a more rustic and immersive experience, consider staying at one of the wilderness camps in national parks and wildlife reserves. These camps are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and provide an authentic African bush experience. Accommodations range from comfortable tents with en-suite facilities to rustic chalets or thatched-roof huts.

3. Safari Lodges: Safari lodges are a popular choice for those seeking a balance between comfort and authenticity. These lodges often offer spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, dining facilities, and common areas where guests can relax and share their safari experiences. Many safari lodges are strategically located for easy access to wildlife-rich areas.

4. Guesthouses and B&Bs: In urban areas and smaller towns, guesthouses and bed and breakfasts offer affordable and comfortable accommodation options. These establishments provide cozy rooms and often include breakfast in the rate. Staying at a guesthouse or B&B allows you to interact with locals and get a glimpse of everyday Zambian life.

5. Camping: For adventurous travelers, Zambia offers various camping options. National parks and private campsites provide facilities for both self-catering and fully serviced camping experiences. Camping allows you to immerse yourself in the wilderness and fall asleep to the sounds of nature.

6. Eco-Lodges: As sustainability becomes increasingly important, eco-lodges have gained popularity in Zambia. These lodges focus on environmentally friendly practices and providing a low-impact experience. Eco-lodges often incorporate renewable energy sources, organic food options, and local community involvement.

With the range of accommodation options available, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the high season, to secure your preferred choice. Consider your budget, location preferences, and desired level of comfort when selecting your accommodation in Zambia. Regardless of your choice, you’ll find warm Zambian hospitality and the chance to unwind amidst the country’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Local Cuisine and Dining in Zambia

Zambian cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s rich cultural diversity and agricultural abundance. From traditional dishes to international flavors, the food in Zambia is flavorful, hearty, and often includes fresh local ingredients. Here’s a glimpse into the local cuisine and dining experiences in Zambia:

Nshima: Nshima is the staple food of Zambia and is similar to a thick porridge made from maize meal. It is typically served as a accompaniment to various dishes and is enjoyed with your hands by rolling it into small balls and dipping it into different sauces.

Grilled Meats: Zambia is renowned for its delicious grilled meats. From succulent beef and tender pork to flavorful game meat like crocodile, impala, and warthog, you’ll find a variety of roasted and barbecued meats served with side dishes.

Kapenta: Kapenta is a small, dried fish that is a popular ingredient in Zambian cuisine. It is often cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices, and served with nshima or as a relish.

Chikanda: Chikanda, also known as African polony or African sausage, is a unique Zambian delicacy. It is made from ground wild orchid tubers, peanuts, and spices and is typically served as a snack or appetizer.

Ifisashi: Ifisashi is a traditional Zambian dish made from vegetables such as pumpkin leaves or spinach, cooked in a peanut-based sauce. It is commonly served with nshima and provides a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian option.

Mbuzi Choma: Mbuzi Choma, or roasted goat meat, is a popular delicacy in Zambia. The meat is marinated with local spices, grilled over an open fire, and often enjoyed as a festive celebration or special occasion dish.

Fruits and Vegetables: Zambia is blessed with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. From juicy mangoes and sweet pineapples to flavorful avocados, you’ll find an array of tropical fruits to enjoy. Local markets are a great place to explore and sample the diverse selection of seasonal produce.

When dining out in Zambia, you’ll find a range of options from casual eateries and street food stands to fine dining restaurants. In urban areas like Lusaka and Livingstone, you’ll find a variety of international cuisines alongside Zambian dishes, offering a fusion of flavors for all tastes and preferences.

Don’t forget to also try traditional beverages such as maheu (a fermented maize drink) or refreshing fruit juices made from local fruits. And for those seeking a traditional Zambian social experience, visit one of the local drinking establishments known as “shebeens” to enjoy a cold beer and interact with the friendly locals.

Exploring the local cuisine in Zambia is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s cultural fabric and culinary traditions. So, don’t be afraid to indulge in the hearty and flavorful dishes that Zambia has to offer.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Zambia

Ensuring your health and safety should be a top priority when traveling to Zambia. By following these important tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip:

1. Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Before traveling to Zambia, consult with a travel health professional to receive all necessary vaccinations such as typhoid, hepatitis A and B, measles, and yellow fever. Malaria is prevalent in Zambia, so it’s essential to take malaria prophylaxis and use mosquito repellent, especially in high-risk areas.

2. Safe Food and Water: To avoid foodborne illnesses, choose reputable restaurants and eateries that maintain proper hygiene standards. Drink only bottled water or water that has been properly treated, and avoid consuming raw or undercooked food, unpeeled fruits, and street food that may not be properly prepared or cooked.

3. Personal Safety: Like any travel destination, practicing personal safety precautions is important. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid flaunting valuable belongings. It’s advisable to use secure transportation, especially at night, and to keep your passport and important documents in a safe place.

4. Wildlife Safety: When on wildlife safaris or visiting national parks, always follow the instructions of your guide and keep a safe distance from wild animals. Respect their space and refrain from feeding or approaching them. It’s also crucial to adhere to park rules and regulations to ensure your safety and the conservation of wildlife.

5. Sun Protection: Zambia can have high temperatures and intense sunlight. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities.

6. Respect Local Customs: Zambia has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional ceremonies. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their properties.

7. Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, and personal belongings. Ensure that your insurance policy is valid in Zambia and covers any adventurous activities you plan to engage in.

8. COVID-19 Precautions: In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, stay updated on the latest travel advisories and follow all health protocols and guidelines issued by local authorities. This may include wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and frequent handwashing or sanitizing.

Remember, it’s always important to stay informed about the current situation in Zambia by checking travel advisories and consulting reliable sources of information. By taking these health and safety precautions, you can have a worry-free trip and fully enjoy the wonders that Zambia has to offer.

Essential Packing List for Zambia

When traveling to Zambia, it’s important to pack appropriately for the climate, activities, and cultural customs. Here’s a checklist of essential items to pack:

1. Lightweight Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Include shorts, t-shirts, lightweight pants, and skirts or dresses. Remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or participating in cultural activities.

2. Layered Clothing: Evenings and early mornings in Zambia can be cool, so pack a lightweight jacket, long-sleeved shirts, and a pair of long pants for added comfort.

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, especially if you plan to explore national parks or participate in walking safaris. Sandals or flip-flops are also useful for relaxing or walking around town.

4. Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays by packing a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of sunglasses with UV protection.

5. Swimwear: If you plan to visit the lakes, rivers, or swimming pools, don’t forget to pack your swimwear.

6. Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are prevalent in Zambia, so bring a reliable insect repellent containing DEET or another effective ingredient to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

7. Sunscreen: The sun in Zambia can be intense, so pack a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn.

8. Medications and First Aid Kit: If you take any prescription medications, be sure to pack an ample supply for the duration of your trip. A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic lotion, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications is also essential.

9. Travel Adapters and Chargers: Zambia uses Type C, D, and G electrical outlets, so bring the appropriate travel adapters and chargers for your electronics.

10. Travel Documents: Don’t forget to pack your passport, visa, travel insurance documents, and any other necessary identification or travel documents.

11. Cash and Cards: While you can find ATMs in major cities, it’s advisable to carry enough cash, preferably in small denominations, for smaller expenses and in case of any unforeseen situations. Additionally, bring a debit or credit card for larger purchases or emergencies.

12. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle and refill it from filtered water sources to minimize plastic waste.

13. Photography Gear: If you enjoy photography, don’t forget to pack your camera, extra batteries, memory cards, and any necessary accessories for capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife in Zambia.

Remember to check the current weather forecast for your travel dates and pack accordingly. It’s also a good idea to leave some space in your luggage for any souvenirs or items you may purchase during your trip. By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your journey and able to fully enjoy the wonders of Zambia.

As we wrap up this ultimate Zambia travel guide, we hope that you are now equipped with the knowledge and insights to plan an incredible journey to this captivating country. Zambia offers a combination of breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, vibrant cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

From the majestic Victoria Falls to the abundant national parks such as South Luangwa and Kafue, Zambia’s natural wonders are a sight to behold. Embark on a wildlife safari, spot diverse animal species, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the African bush. Engage with locals, attend traditional ceremonies, and savor the flavors of Zambian cuisine for a truly immersive cultural experience.

While exploring Zambia, prioritize your health and safety by taking necessary vaccinations, practicing safe food and water precautions, and respecting local customs. Remember to pack appropriate clothing, including sunscreen and insect repellent, as the climate can be hot and mosquitoes are prevalent.

Whether you’re seeking adventure activities like bungee jumping and white-water rafting or prefer a more tranquil experience like canoeing on the Zambezi River, Zambia has something to offer all types of travelers. Choose from a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury lodges to wilderness camps, to suit your preferences and budget.

As you embark on your Zambia adventure, be open to the unexpected, embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Zambian people, and marvel at the untamed beauty of the country’s landscapes and wildlife. The memories you create in Zambia will stay with you long after you leave.

So, pack your bags, put on your adventurous spirit, and get ready to explore the wonders of Zambia. From walking in the footsteps of explorers to encountering the Big Five in their natural habitats, Zambia is a destination that will leave you mesmerized and longing to return.

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Top 8 things to do in Zambia beyond going on safari

Oct 11, 2022 • 7 min read

Take a dip in the Devil's Pool on the edge of Victoria Falls in Mosi-o-Tunya National Park  Getty Images/Mint Images

Taking its name from the Zambezi River that flows through it, Zambia is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. Its 73 ethnic groups highlight the country’s diverse cultures which are showcased through vibrant traditional festivals throughout the year.

On a trip to Zambia, you’ll spend your days ticking off "the Big Five" on safari in one or more of the country’s 20 national parks. You’ll never have to worry about long queues to take a picture of a lion as is the case in other parks in Africa , as Zambia’s parks are still the continent’s best secret, offering near solitude. 

Swim at the edge of the world’s most impressive waterfall or snorkel in clear waters in one of the world’s deepest lakes. Dance the night away in the capital city or discover Zambia’s next Picasso at a gallery. Here are the top eight things to do in Zambia to get to know Southern Africa a little better.

1. Swim at Victoria Falls 

Located in Livingstone , the tourist capital of Zambia, the Victoria Falls , or the Mosi-o-Tunya as it’s known locally, is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. During the dry months of July and August, take a dip in the Devil's Pool  – a natural infinity pool that forms at the edge of the falls. 

Other adrenaline-inducing activities include white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, taking a 30-minute micro-flight over the falls, bungee jumping or walking the knife edge bridge to see the permanent rainbow.

For a luxury experience, enjoy a five-course meal aboard the Royal Livingstone express train which passes through the Mosi-o-Tunya National Park  with a pit stop at the Victoria Falls bridge.  

Local tip: While in Livingstone, book a workshop in painting, drawing or ceramics with locally based artists Agness and Lawrence Yombwe who run Wayi Wayi gallery . Also pop into the Livingstone Art Gallery for an exhibition or shop for leather Made in Zambia goods such as bags at Wayawaya.     

2. Snorkel in Lake Tanganyika 

Located in northern Zambia, Lake Tanganyika is the world’s largest freshwater lake and home to over 350 species of fish. Angling is a popular activity, with a dedicated festival – the Tanganyika Angling Challenge – that takes place every March.  

The warm temperature of the water, and its crystal-clear waters make the lake a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Both activities take place through bookings with Ndole Bay Lodge , the only fully registered dive facility in Zambia.

Planning tip: While in the area, take the Nsumbu island sunset dhow cruise, which passes through the Nsumbu National Park : expect sightings of elephants, zebra and antelopes.

3. Attend a traditional festival

Zambia has a population of about 18 million people, who belong to one or more of the 73 ethnic groups in the country. Each has a unique annual  traditional festival . 

Some of the most vibrant include the Kuomboka of the Lozi people, which involves their traditional leader traveling over the Zambezi River on an intricately decorated boat, the Lukumbi Lya Mize of the Luvale, which features masked dancers or the Kulamba festival of the Chewa, which features dancers defying gravity.

Planning tip: Most traditional festivals in Zambia take place from July to October, with the exception of Kuomboka which is at the end of the rainy season in March or April.

4. Revel in city life in Lusaka

Lusaka , the capital city of Zambia is usually overlooked and used mainly as a transit hub for visitors en route to Victoria Falls or going on a safari, but the town has lots of activities to offer. 

Art lovers can support local artists by visiting galleries such as Chena , The Start Foundation and Lechwe Trust . For an in depth view of Zambian history and politics, visit The Lusaka National Museum and Chilenje House 394 – the former home of the country’s first president. 

The Lusaka National Park is home to an elephant orphanage where guests can drop in during feeding time. Live music is also a popular pastime in the city’s nightlife scene, hosted on weekend evenings at venues including Latitude 15 Hotel and the Alliance Francaise . This includes performances by local artists of Zambian songs and covers of popular American music.       

 5. Eat your way through the country

Discover Zambia’s delicious cuisine by visiting local restaurants or markets. Expect to eat nshima , the staple meal made from corn which can be described as a thicker version of grits. It’s traditionally served with a protein stew and vegetables.

Other must-try items include goat meat stew, ifisashi (green vegetables cooked with a peanut sauce), ifinkubala (deep fried caterpillars) and c hikanda (a vegetarian meal made from tubers). Wash it all down with munkoyo , a fermented beverage made from roots and corn.

For the best foodie experience in Lusaka, head to a spot known as Matebeto in the Thornpark area, which is a street lined with outdoor restaurants serving Zambian cuisine. There are also sit-down restaurants such as Twapandula and Mpoto Yatu. 

6. Witness one of the world’s largest mammal migrations

Every year, two of Zambia’s national parks host some of the largest mammal migrations in Africa. In late November, thousands of wildebeests appear in the Liuwa Plain National Park in western Zambia as they adapt to the changing seasons by migrating. 

This is the second-largest wildebeest migration in Africa, after Kenya’s great migration. The remote park is never crowded, making this a great alternative to the East African experience.

Between October and December, about 10 million fruit bats turn the skies of Kasanka National Park black as they take part in the largest mammal migration in the world.

Planning tip: Combine a safari to Kasanka with other attractions in the area such as the Kundalila Falls and the Nsalu Cave , which features rock paintings dating back 20,000 years. Both sights afford expansive views of the Muchinga escarpment.     

7. Spot "the Big Five" on safari

When it comes to wildlife, visitors to Zambia are spoilt for choice, with 20 national parks and 34 game management areas in the country. You’ll most likely knock off "the Big Five” during a safari in South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia.

Must do activities include a walking safari, which has its origins in the park, as founded by conservationist Sir Norman Carr in the 1960s. Spot species unique to the park, such as the thornicroft giraffe and the blue wildebeest.

See elephants and buffalo on the Zambezi River on a canoe safari in Lower Zambezi, which is also known as the world’s first carbon-neutral park.

Make your safari sustainable and “silent” by visiting Kafue National Park’ s Green safari’s lodges (Chisa Busanga and Ila) where the vehicles run on solar power. Hot air balloon safaris can also be arranged in the park though Wilderness.

While South Luangwa, Kasanka, Kafue and Liuwa parks are the most well-known, there are smaller and less popular parks that deserve a visit.

These include Lavushi Manda which although not rich in "the Big Five” is a hikers paradise due to its high elevation, Luambe in the Northern region of Zambia whose elephant population is rising steadily, and North Luangwa  where wild dogs, black rhinos and elephants can be seen.

Planning tip: The most popular time to go on safari in Zambia is July to October which makes for easier sightings of wildlife due to the dry season forcing animals to congregate around water sources.

Birdlife enthusiasts should visit during the emerald season (November to March), which is also an opportune time to see newborn mammals. It is also the most affordable time to go on safari, although accommodation options are limited because a few areas of parks close due to the rains that make some roads inaccessible.

8. Visit an over 100-year-old British Manor House  

The result of a long-held dream and ambition by its founder, English-born Sir Stuart Gore Browne, Shiwa House is an English manor estate in Muchinga province. Built on a large estate that features a natural hot spring Kapishya , as well as an old post office, the house itself which has an impressive library, is still occupied by Browne’s descendants and is available for tours. 

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36 Best Places To Visit In Zambia

Posted on December 22, 2022 |

In this article, you’ll discover 36 Best Places To Visit In Zambia. Zambia offers authentic African adventures , featuring diverse wildlife, trekking opportunities, and beautiful national parks. The country is home to game lodges for safaris, where visitors can spot lions, giraffes, hippos, and more.

For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping or zip-lining over Victoria Falls provides an unforgettable experience. Zambia is also renowned for its exceptional walking safaris, allowing adventurous treks through the bush.

In Zambia, visit Lusaka, the capital city and largest urban area in central and southern Africa . Since 1964, it has tripled in size, with one in ten Zambians residing there. The city features Soviet-style high-rises, modern commerce centers, and tree-lined streets.

Lusaka offers game reserves, parks, and the Elephant Orphanage Project. Hiking trails and Lusaka National Park, where the rare white rhino can be spotted, are also available. The city has good road connections to major cities and tourist attractions, including Kafue and Livingstone national parks.

For history enthusiasts, visit the Freedom Statue, built in memory of Zambia’s freedom fighters. Depicting a man breaking free from slavery, it holds significance during annual Africa Freedom Day celebrations.

Lusaka National Park

Lusaka National Park, opened in 2015, is Zambia’s smallest national park, spanning 6,715 hectares. Located 30 kilometers from the city center, it offers a break from urban life. The park features well-maintained entrance roads, signs, and maps.

Lusaka National Park is home to various animals, including zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, impala, and the endangered white rhino.

Additionally, the Lilayi Elephant Sanctuary, 20 kilometers from downtown Lusaka, protects young elephants and offers behind-the-scenes tours.

Zambia National Museum

Visit Lusaka National Museum to learn about Zambia’s history and culture. Located downtown, it features two main galleries: one for local art and another charting Zambia’s evolution.

Displays include urban culture, history, and cultural, ethnographic, and archaeological artifacts. The upper gallery features a replica of the ancient Kabwe man skull, dated between 300,000 and 125,000 years old. The museum also has a children’s area and souvenir store.

Livingstone

Livingstone, once Zambia’s capital, has colonial buildings and a thriving tourism industry. Near Victoria Falls, it has a cool, dry climate. The town offers curio vendors, two main markets, a vegetarian market, and arts and crafts outlets.

Attractions include Victoria Falls, high tea, wildlife, museums, and art galleries. The Livingstone Museum, one of Zambia’s oldest, features Livingstone memorabilia and showcases Zambian tribes and Bantu people’s history.

The Railway Museum has 19th-century locomotives, and the Jewish Museum highlights Jewish settlers’ history.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, located on the Zambia- Zimbabwe border, is a large waterfall on the Zambezi River. Formed by gorges, it offers unique ecosystems for plants and animals, making it a popular tourist destination. The falls can be viewed from both sides, with entrance fees required.

A full moon creates a Lunar Rainbow or Moonbow, with spray forming a rainbow. The best time to visit is during the dry season (April-May), with full flow in November and trickling water in the Devil’s Pool. The rainy season (mid-November to mid-March) showcases the falls’ beauty.

Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park

Mosi-Oa-Tunya Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , contains half of Victoria Falls. Located on the upper Zambezi River, the park spans 12 kilometers and is a sanctuary for various wildlife , including the rare white rhino. Attractions include Victoria Falls, Thorn Tree River Lodge, and the Old Drift Crossing Point.

The park features antelope, buffalo, giraffe, warthog, and diverse raptors, such as owls, hawks, and falcons. Elephants often cross the Zambezi River.

The park also hosts the last Zambian white rhino, elephants, zebras, crocodiles, and hippos visible on game drives.

Mpika In Zambia

Mpika, Zambia, is an emerging tourist destination with unique attractions and a thriving business community. It features local markets, five filling stations, a GM Trading supermarket, and various accommodations. North and South Luangwa National Parks are 5-8 hours away.

The best time to visit is April to October, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rain. Average temperatures range from 22°C in June to 30°C in October. The table below shows average temperature, humidity, and precipitation by month.

Kafue National Park

Kafue National Park, in western Zambia, offers diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, antelopes, and hippos.

The park, traversed by the Kafue River, can be explored through safaris, birding drives, 4×4 safaris, and walking safaris , which are best in the evenings due to heat. River safaris are also available during the rainy season.

Kafue hosts various antelope species, leopards, lions, buffaloes, cheetahs, and endangered African wild dogs, boasting one of the world’s largest populations.

Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika, in Zambia, is the fifth-largest freshwater lake globally, among the oldest and largest freshwater bodies, and the second deepest and longest.

Activities include snorkeling and fishing, with over 350 fish species like Nile perch and lake salmon. Follow a catch-and-release policy.

Visit between August and mid-October to see elephants drinking water. Ensure good road conditions for driving and obtain a diving license through a PADI course for diving.

South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park, situated in the Luangwa River valley, offers abundant wildlife. Hikers can spot hippos near Mfuwe Gate, and the woodland savannah hosts hundreds of bird species .

Park lodges provide trails to see baobab trees, elephant herds, and rare Thornicroft giraffes. Evening spotlights reveal leopards and other nocturnal animals.

The park, open to the public and unfenced, allows animals to roam freely. Weather-dependent, visit in winter for drier conditions or summer for wetter ones.

Birdwatching is popular, with the iconic carmine bee-eater nesting along the Luangwa River and molting into breeding plumage in November.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park is a pristine wilderness in Africa with minimal tourists. It is Zambia’s most significant wilderness area, hosting diverse wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, lions, and various bird species, including eagles, storks, bee-eaters, spoonbills, and African skimmers.

Located in southern Zambia, bordering Zimbabwe, the park offers close-up wildlife encounters through walking safaris .

These safaris provide an educational experience about the ecosystem and are an ideal way to explore Lower Zambezi National Park.

Mwela Rocks National Monument

The Mwela Rock Paintings, a Zambian national monument, are located 4.8 kilometers east of Kasama. These 3,000-year-old paintings are found in caves and cover an area of approximately 100 km². They represent one of Africa’s largest rock art concentrations, with over 1,000 paintings.

The paintings depict social and individual needs, cultural beliefs, and practices of local people. They offer insights into human life during the Later Stone Age, including burial rites and human-environment interactions. The Mwela Rock Paintings are exceptionally beautiful and significant.

Nsumbu National Park

Nsumbu National Park is situated on Lake Tanganyika’s western shore in Zambia’s Northern Province. The park covers over 2000 square kilometers, including 80 kilometers of lakeshore, four bays, and the Nundo Head Peninsula. It features diverse landscapes such as cliffs, sandy beaches, a sheltered bay, and the endangered Sumbu-Itigi forest.

The park is home to various wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, elephants, antelope species, and hyenas.

Although not the top wildlife viewing area in Zambia, Nsumbu National Park offers unique experiences with its diverse flora and fauna.

Blue Lagoon National Park

Blue Lagoon National Park, a small wildlife-rich park in Zambia, spans 500 square kilometers within the Kafue Flats, 100 kilometers west of Lusaka.

Situated on the Kafue Flats, this beautiful 500-hectare park hosts thousands of Kafue lechwe, buffalo, migratory waterbirds, and diverse bird species , making it ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Visiting Blue Lagoon National Park offers a unique experience, with marshy floodplains where flamboyant lechwe can be observed. The park also features a bird-watching platform for viewing marsh-loving antelopes.

Nyika Plateau National Park

Nyika Plateau National Park offers a scenic safari experience with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities . The park’s montane upland reaches elevations up to 2200 meters and features extensive grasslands, rocky outcrops, and tropical woodlands. It borders Malawi and Zambia.

Visitors may spot Crawshay’s zebra, eland, bushbuck, and leopards, depending on the season. The park is also popular for birdwatching, providing an off-the-beaten-track safari experience.

Liuwa Plains

Liuwa Plain National Park, in Zambia’s Western Province, spans 3300 square kilometers. Its name originates from the local Liuwa language, a Lozi dialect. The Liuwa people initially used the area for hunting.

The park hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including cheetahs, hyenas, storks, elands, and endangered wattled and crowned cranes.

Situated west of the upper Zambezi River , near the Angolan border, Liuwa Plains is one of Zambia’s most remote national parks, featuring vast grasslands and numerous mammal and bird species.

Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake and reservoir, is situated on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, 1,300 kilometers from the Indian Ocean. It offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and ideal conditions for water sports.

Visitors can fish, boat, and observe wildlife like fish, crocodiles, and elephants year-round, with migratory birds in wet months.

The Zambian side has Chete and Chikanka Islands, privately-owned with fishing lodges, particularly for tigerfish. Fishing trips can also be arranged from Siavonga.

Kalimba Reptile Park

Kalimba Reptile Park, near Kabulonga, features Nile crocodiles, indigenous snakes, tortoises, and other reptiles in their natural habitat. Guided tours educate visitors on safe reptile handling.

The park also houses endangered slender-nosed crocodiles, fishing ponds with equipment rentals, and a playground with volleyball and table tennis.

Kalimba Reptile Park was the first to combine crocodile farming and aquaculture, producing crocodile eggs on-site.

It offers guided tours and a bar, making it an ideal location for children to learn about wildlife conservation and enjoy recreational activities. The park is conveniently located near Lusaka’s Independence Stadium and City Market.

Lake Kashiba

Lake Kashiba, near Mpongwe and St Anthony’s Mission, offers hiking and cycling opportunities amidst natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

This unique limestone corrosion-formed lake is one of Zambia’s hidden gems, featuring crystal-clear water inhabited by carp and bream, and surrounded by thick forests.

Lake Kashiba is a nationally significant area, popular for swimming, fishing, and birdwatching. Visitors may also spot monkeys, monitor lizards, and snakes.

Munda Wanga Environmental Park

Munda Wanga Environmental Park, located in Chilanga, is a picturesque destination featuring a botanical garden, animal park, and wildlife sanctuary.

The park offers a fossil site, open playground, picnic area, and two fish-filled ponds. Summer visits include animal feeding time, enhancing the experience at this charming resort.

Chaminuka Game Reserve

Chaminuka Game Reserve, a private property, hosts 72 African mammal species and is a 45-minute drive from central Lusaka. It offers jeep and walking safaris, 30 luxury suites, boat tours on Lake Chitoka, organic cuisine , and a swimming pool.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, May to October, when wildlife is more visible near waterholes.

The park is known for its large elephant population and diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, giraffes, and buffaloes.

It is situated on the Lower Zambezi River, 180 kilometers from Lusaka, and features the Kariba Dam Wall, Africa’s largest.

Kasanka National Park

Kasanka National Park, in Zambia’s Central Province, spans 390 km² and is the country’s first public-private partnership-managed park. It offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.

The park, part of Zambia’s Protected Area Network, is vital for the ecosystem’s flora and fauna. A highlight is the annual Fruit Bat migration, with millions arriving in November and December.

Kasanka is also home to the semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, and Pel’s fishing owl. A park expedition allows visitors to spot these species and visit Livingstone’s memorial.

Mongu, Zambia, located in the Central Zambezian Miombo woodlands, offers a distinctive wildlife experience. The town is known for the elusive Mathias Spotted tiger, which hunts using thirst traps.

Mongu’s economy is primarily agricultural, with mango farming and basket weaving, but tourism has grown in importance.

Visitors to Mongu should explore Lake Mweru, situated on Zambia’s western border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The town serves as the provincial hub.

Chipata, in Zambia’s Copperbelt, offers a relaxed getaway with shopping opportunities, a thriving market, and a bustling downtown area.

Serving as a transport hub for Zambia and Malawi, the town features the “Down Shops” area, home to businesses mostly owned by Indians, such as Kavulamungu Bargain Centre and Ally & Sons.

A notable attraction in Chipata is the Central Mosque, located in the Down Shops area. Although the population is predominantly Christian, there is a significant Muslim minority. The mosque and other Islamic buildings are visually appealing.

Ndola, in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province, offers insights into the city’s copper mining history at the Copperbelt Museum. The Mupapa Slave Tree, a giant mahogany pod tree used as a slave market in the 19th century, is another notable site.

Visitors can explore Lake Chilengwa, a large sunken crater, and Nsobe Game Camp, home to zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. Although Ndola has limited sightseeing opportunities, it hosts a few museums, galleries, and a vibrant business community with shops and stalls for souvenirs.

The Copperbelt Museum, located near the New Savoy Hotel, displays minerals, local arts, and crafts, and features a small shop selling local curios and copper-related items.

The Bangweulu Wetland System, in Zambia, consists of the Swamps and the Flats, spanning 6,000 square kilometers.

Locally known as ‘Bangweulu,’ this community-owned protected area is a premier birding destination, featuring the endemic shoebill.

Visitors can explore the wetlands via mokoro trips, interacting with local communities who practice traditional fishing and beekeeping.

The area is also home to large herds of black lechwe, buffaloes, elephants, and tsessebe, particularly during the dry season.

Chingola, Zambia, offers popular attractions such as the Kafue River, known for its large hippopotamus population, and the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, established in 1983 by David and Sheila Siddle. The orphanage houses around 100 chimpanzees and hippos.

Accommodation options in Chingola range from budget to luxury boutique hotels, often located near attractions and public transit. Consider the climate and planned activities when selecting a hotel.

July is the ideal time to visit Chingola, as Zambia features a humid subtropical climate with dry summers and warm, wet winters, offering a more temperate experience than Kenya’s tropical climate.

Chirundu, situated on the main road connecting Harare and Lusaka, is a popular Zambian tourist destination.

This town offers various attractions and serves as a major entry point to the Lower Zambezi National Parks, including the renowned Victoria Falls.

Chirundu is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to observe elephants and experience the African bush.

Located 92 km south of Lusaka, it boasts a warm-to-hot climate year-round and is the starting point for boat transfers to Mana Pools. The town lies on the banks of the Zambezi River, surrounded by impressive hills.

When visiting Zambia, consider stopping in Kabwe, a small town in the south. Although it has limited attractions and accommodations, it’s an ideal location for a quick break or snack, especially due to its proximity to Lusaka and the Copperbelt Province.

Kabwe holds historical significance for its role in Zambia’s independence struggle from Britain. However, the town has seen little investment and infrastructure decline compared to the growing capital, Lusaka.

For late-night entertainment, visit Big Bite, a restaurant-bar, or the Congolese-run Chez-n-Temba nightclub, featuring both Congolese and Zambian music.

Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage

Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, located in Zambia, is a sanctuary for chimpanzees. The orphanage, now governed by a board of trustees, was founded in 1983 and houses over 120 chimpanzees, as well as vervet monkeys, baboons, and antelopes.

Visitors can observe the animals in their outdoor enclosures and donate to support the orphanage. The sanctuary also features a chimp-related education center, used by both local and international students, and hosts various research projects for public involvement.

Ngonye Falls

Ngonye Falls, also known as Sioma Falls, is located on the Zambezi river in southern Barotseland province, accessible from Lusaka.

Near the town of Sioma, the falls are about 12 meters high and spread out in a wide crescent, producing a large volume of water second only to Victoria Falls.

During the dry season, the falls are quiet and suitable for picnicking, but they can be thunderous during full flow.

A four-hour journey from Livingstone, Ngonye Falls offers swimming, fishing, white-water rafting, and kayaking. Transportation options include hiring a car, bus, or taxi.

Wildlife such as giraffes and antelope can be spotted in the area, particularly after summer rains when they gather around drying pools.

Kundalila Falls

Kundalila Falls, located on the Kaombe River in Zambia, is considered one of Africa’s most beautiful waterfalls. Situated near Kanona in the Serenje district, it is a 14-kilometer trek from the T2 Great North Road.

The waterfall cascades over the Muchinga escarpment, and its name means ‘crying dove’ in the local Bemba language.

Visitors can view the falls from various viewpoints, with the lower waterfall accessible by a stone path and the upper falls reached by stairs.

Camping is allowed at the base, and an ablution block is available, although taps may be broken.

Lumangwe Falls

Lumangwe Falls, one of Zambia’s largest waterfalls, is located on the Kalungwishi River. It measures 30-40 meters in height and 100-160 meters in width, consisting of interbedded quartzite and red siltstone.

The waterfall is considered sacred by locals and is guarded by a spirit called Lumangwe, a great snake stretching between Lumangwe Falls and Kabweluma Falls.

Lumangwe Falls offers multiple viewpoints along its cliff edge, often spraying visitors with water. It is also known for its lunar rainbow.

The waterfall is accessible by car from Mporokoso, with a relatively easy road despite some potholes. A pleasant hike through the thick forest leads to the bottom of the waterfall, featuring two cataracts dropping 40 meters and a waterspout, making it an ideal picnic spot.

Chipembe Falls

Chipembe Falls in Zambia offers visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, including the Devil’s Pool, a natural pool formed by erosion from the falls. When the Zambezi River is low, snorkeling is possible in the shallow water.

Located in the North-Western Province, approximately 200km from Solewzi, Chipembe Falls are among Africa’s largest waterfalls. Some falls feature prehistoric carvings, and the area can be explored without a tour guide.

Chisimba Falls

Chisimba Falls, also known as Chishimba Falls, is a stunning waterfall located in the Kasama District of Zambia. The 20-meter waterfall is home to the Chishimba Hydroelectric Power Station and is a significant tourist attraction.

Visitors can walk to the base of the falls and explore the cave behind it. The surrounding thick mist forests provide habitats for various bird species, and gazebos are available for viewing the falls and the area.

The local Bemba people consider the falls sacred, believing that spirits reside in the cave beneath the waterfalls. Visitors are advised to respect this belief and avoid speaking negatively inside the cave.

Kalambo Falls

Kalambo Falls, standing at 772 feet, is one of Africa’s tallest uninterrupted waterfalls, located at the southeast end of Lake Tanganyika on the border of Zambia and Tanzania.

This scenic spot is also an archaeological site, with artifacts dating back 60,000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited sites.

Managed by the National Heritage Conservation Commission, the falls are shared by Zambia and Tanzania . They are also home to a colony of Marabou storks nesting on the cliffs below. Kalambo Falls have been included in UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites.

Zambia offers diverse wildlife , including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and rhinos, making it an ideal safari destination . The country also boasts stunning scenery such as Victoria Falls and Lake Kariba.

Adventure seekers can hike through South Luangwa National Park or canoe down the Zambezi River. Zambia’s rich history and culture cater to various traveler preferences, making it a versatile destination.

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Mosi-oa-Tunya. The smoke that thunders. Zambia’s Kololo tribe best describe what is the world’s most awe-inspiring and largest waterfall plummeting 354 feet into a mile-long, ravaged chasm. Breathtaking views of Victoria Falls take center stage in Zambia’s the spectrum of natural beauty that rises from Zambezi River basins. At the heart of Zambia’s other geological wonders are the ancient waters of Lake Tanganyika, man-made Lake Kariba, and hot springs of Kapishya in North Luangwa National Park—refuges for increasingly endangered indigenous wildlife.

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Travel guide to Zambia

The rewards of traveling in Zambia are those of exploring some of Southern Africa’s wildest and most remote wilderness areas, home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife. A Zambia safari holiday combines excellent big game viewing with luxurious unfenced lodges and some of the best guides in Africa. And although the spectacular beauty of Zambia’s immense nature reserves has long made them a favorite for safari connoisseurs, they don’t attract the crowds that cluster around sightings in the better-known parks in Africa – in fact the only bustle you’re likely to find is at the country’s most popular attraction: the world-famous Victoria Falls.

Get the most out of your (luxury) trip to Zambia with my travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Inspiration, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Zambia has a sub-tropical climate and its weather is defined by a marked wet and dry season rather than summer and winter.

• The dry season runs from May to October and this is the best time in Zambia to spot animals because there’s less vegetation and they gather around waterholes and rivers. Days are sunny, there’s hardly any rain, and temperatures are pleasantly mild, although September and October get extremely hot. It’s important to keep in mind that morning game drives in winter are really cold, so bring warm clothing during June, July and August.
• The rainy season (December to April) is commonly called the “Green Season” as the bush is beautifully thick and green. This however makes game viewing less easy as the vegetation is so dense plus many animals move away from dry season water sources. Most of the rain falls in January and February, and some lodges also close during the rainy season due to flooding. The green season is is the best time though for watching birdlife, including migratory birds.

In summary, for the best wildlife viewing in the main parks, you need to visit in the dry winter months (May to October). This coincides with the best opportunities for great photos of Victoria Falls at the end of the rainy season (May to July) when the Zambezi River is in full flood and the falls are at their most spectacular. Any later in the year and you’ll find that the falls aren’t very impressive from the Zambian side, although you can cross into Zimbabwe for a better view. Certain activities such as white-water rafting are only on offer when water levels are low, and this is also the time to take a dip in the Devil’s Pool – a natural rock pool right on the edge of the falls.

HOW TO GET THERE

Most travelers arrive in Zambia via Lusaka’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport , the main gateway for all destinations in the country. Several airlines offer direct flights to Lusaka , including Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Emirates, and South African Airways (although there are no direct flights from Asia or Europe). Click  here  for a continuously updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Kigali.

It’s also possible to arrive in  Zambia  overland as part of a multi-country itinerary.  Zambia is bordered by Tanzania and Congo to the north, Angola to the east, Zimbabwe and Namibia to the south, and Malawi and Mozambique to the west. Transiting via Congo and Angola is not recommended (due to unpredictable security situation and the potential for violent civil unrest), but the  land border crossings with Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Namibia are open and several tourists combine these countries with Zambia in one single holiday. 

Before you buy a plane ticket, consider reading my  tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket .  

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry into  Zambia differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your nearest Zambian embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to Zambia. A passport and visa are required to enter Zambia for most travelers:

• Passports must be valid for at least six months upon arrival and have at least three blank pages upon each entry.
• Zambian entry visas can be obtained online through the Department of Immigration’s e-Services website or upon arrival at any port of entry. 

Make sure you read my  10 tips to plan a worry-free trip .

GETTING AROUND

The easiest way to get around in Zambia is by air travel . The main domestic airports are at Lusaka, Livingstone, Ndola, Kitwe, Mfuwe, Kasama and Kalabo. Dozens of minor airstrips, most notably those in the Lower Zambezi National Park, Kafue National Park and North Luangwa National Park, cater for chartered planes. Proflight is the only domestic airline offering regularly scheduled flights within the country and tickets can be booked online. The departure tax for domestic flights is $8 USD. Proflight tickets include this tax in the price, but for other flights it must be paid at the airport.

While it is certainly possible to get around Zambia by car, many sealed roads are in bad condition and the dirt roads can range from shocking to impassable, particularly after the rains. If you haven’t driven in Africa before, this is not the best place to start. When traveling in Zambia by car, please be aware that:

• Secondary roads are not well maintained; use major roads whenever possible.
• Most roads do not have shoulders or sidewalks and are poorly lit.
• Pedestrians and livestock use the roadways.
• Passing another vehicle is dangerous given the general condition of roads.
• Lookout for tree branches or other debris which local drivers often place behind their cars to indicate a breakdown or trouble.
• Cars with non-functioning headlights and taillights are a common hazard.
• Night driving is discouraged.
• There are no emergency services for stranded or injured drivers.
• Auto accident victims are vulnerable to theft by those pretending to be helpful.

INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS & TRAVEL TIPS

There are many reasons why  Zambia  should be on your bucket list:

• Explore Victoria Falls, the world’s largest water falls
• Get up close with wildlife on a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park
• Take a boat cruise on the might Zambezi River in Lower Zambezi National Park
• Observe Africa’s second largest wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plains
• Stay at the ultraluxe lodges and authentic bushcamps of Time + Tide 

The following, comprehensive articles may also inspire you and help you plan your holiday to  Zambia :

• Top 10 things to see & do in Zambia
• Top 10 best hotels & lodges in Zambia
• Tips & tricks for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel
• Tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 

Zambia is a large country but it’s relatively easy to explore all of its highlights within a short time frame. I suggest the following ten day itinerary in Zambia :

• Recommended hotel: Time + Tide Chongwe Suites (3 nights)
• Recommended lodges: combination of Time + Tide bushcamps (2 nights) and Time + Tide Chinzombo (3 nights)
• Recommended hotel: The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel by Anantara (2 nights)

I recommend to book your entire Zambia trip via Time + Tide, who will take care of all your travel arrangements (hotels, domestic transfers, etc …).

RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS (+ REVIEWS)

I recommend to visit my top 10 list of the  most fabulous hotels in Zambia if you are eager to know how I rank Zambia’s top hotels, based my own experience.

Below, you find my reviews of hotels in Zambia (with pros, cons, & tips to save money per hotel).

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Zambia may be becoming increasingly well known, yet the country still retains its essence: that authentic feeling of a wilderness which is wild, beautiful and slightly unpredictable. Chris McIntyre author of Zambia:The Bradt Guide

Landlocked in the heart of the continent, Zambia is deepest, darkest Africa at its most appealing. Many are drawn initially to the majestic Victoria Falls – both for the spectacle and for the adrenalin sports on the raging Zambezi River below.

Others come for the glory of the country’s national parks: the South Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi and – increasingly – the Kafue. But for seasoned safari goers, Zambia is known as the home of the walking safari. What better way to seek out game than on foot, on the animals’ terms, and with no artificial barriers? 

As if that weren’t enough, Zambia has yet more to offer the adventurous traveller. Canoeing down the languid Lower Zambezi, surrounded by hippos and crocs, you’ll need your wits about you as you take in the scenery.

Diving in Lake Tanganyika will reveal a whole new world of freshwater fish. And for birders, Zambia is one of the strongholds of the prehistoric-looking shoebill, which makes its home deep in the Bangweulu Wetlands. Then to round it all off, how about finishing your trip with a stay in an extraordinary stately home: Shiwa Ng’andu?

Food and drink in Zambia

Zambia’s native cuisine is based on nshima, a cooked porridge made from ground maize. (In Zimbabwe this is called sadza , in South Africa mealie-pap .) Nshima is usually made thin, perhaps with sugar, for breakfast, then eaten thicker – the consistency of mashed potatoes – for lunch and dinner. For these main meals it will normally be accompanied by some spicy relish, perhaps made of meat and tomatoes, or dried fish. Do taste this at some stage when visiting. Safari camps will often prepare it if requested, and it is always available in small restaurants in the towns. Often these will have only three items on the menu: nshima and chicken; nshima and meat; and nshima and fish – and they can be very good.

Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas visitors will serve a very international fare, and the quality of food prepared in the most remote bushcamps amazes visitors. Coming to Zambia on safari your biggest problem with food is likely to be the temptation to eat too much. If you are driving yourself around and plan to cook, then get most of your supplies in Lusaka or one of the larger towns. Supermarkets have revolutionised what’s available, and really have all that you will need. In the smaller towns, supplies are usually limited to products that are popular locally. These include bread, fl our, rice, soups and various tinned vegetables, meats and fish, though locally grown produce such as tomatoes, bananas or sweet potatoes will be available in season. This is fine for nutrition, but you may get bored with the selection in a week or two.

Like most countries in the region, Zambia has two distinct beer types: clear and opaque. Most visitors and more affluent Zambians drink the clear beers, which are similar to European lagers and best served chilled. Mosi, Castle and Carling Black Label are the lagers brewed by South African Breweries’ Zambian subsidiaries. They are widely available and usually good.

Less-affluent Zambians usually opt for some form of the opaque beer (sometimes called chibuku , after the market-leading brand). This is a commercial version of traditional beer, usually brewed from maize and/or sorghum. It’s a sour, porridge-like brew, an acquired taste, and is much cheaper than lager. Locals will sometimes buy a bucket of it, and then pass this around a circle of drinkers. It would be unusual for a visitor to drink this, so try some and amuse your Zambian companions. Remember, though, that traditional opaque beer changes flavour as it ferments and you can often ask for ‘fresh beer’ or ‘strong beer’. If you aren’t sure about the bar’s hygiene standards, stick to the pre-packaged brands of opaque beer like Chibuku, Chinika, Golden, Chipolopolo or Mukango.

Water in the main towns is usually purified, provided there are no shortages of chlorine, breakdowns or other mishaps. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that it may harbour. If you are in the country for a long time, then it may be worth acclimatising yourself to it – though be prepared for some days spent near a toilet. However, if you are in Zambia for just a few weeks, then try to drink only bottled, boiled or treated water in town – otherwise you will get stomach upsets. Bottled water can be bought almost anywhere, although if you want it cold you may often find it’s frozen! Expect to pay around US$0.60/K7 for a half-litre in a supermarket, more in a smaller outlet or garage.

Out in the bush, most of the camps and lodges use water from boreholes. These underground sources vary in quality, but are normally free from bugs so the water is perfectly safe to drink. Sometimes it is sweet, at other times a little alkaline or salty. Ask locally if it is suitable for an unacclimatised visitor to drink, then take their advice.

Health and safety in Zambia

Zambia, like most parts of Africa, is home to several tropical diseases unfamiliar to people living in more temperate and sanitary climates. However, with adequate preparation, and a sensible attitude to malaria prevention, the chances of serious mishap are small. To put this in perspective, your greatest concern after malaria should not be the combined exotica of venomous snakes, stampeding wildlife, gun-happy soldiers or the Ebola virus, but something altogether more mundane: a road accident.

Travel clinics and health information

A full list of current travel clinic websites worldwide is available on www.istm.org . For other journey preparation information, consult www.travelhealthpro.org.uk  (UK) or http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ (US). Information about various medications may be found on www.netdoctor.co.uk/travel. All advice found online should be used in conjunction with expert advice received prior to or during travel.

Zambia is not a dangerous country. If you are travelling on an all-inclusive trip and staying at lodges and hotels, then problems of personal safety are exceedingly rare. There will always be someone on hand to help you. Even if you are travelling on local transport, perhaps on a low budget, you will not be attacked randomly just for the sake of it. A difficult situation is most likely to occur if you have made yourself an obvious target for thieves, perhaps by walking around, or driving an expensive 4×4, in town at night. The answer then is to capitulate completely and give them what they want, and cash in on your travel insurance. Heroics are not a good idea. The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office currently advises caution when travelling in rural parts of the country bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), especially after dark, a reflection of ongoing cross-border raids. The advice does not relate to main roads, or to towns along the routes, including those between Kapiri Mposhi and Serenje, Serenje and Mansa, and the main routes through the Copperbelt. However, those proposing to travel north from Ndola to Mufulira should be cautious.

For women travellers, especially those travelling alone, it is doubly important to learn the local attitudes, and how to behave acceptably. This takes some practice, and a certain confidence. You will oft en be the centre of attention but, by developing conversational techniques to avert over-enthusiastic male attention, you should be perfectly safe. Making friends of the local women is one way to help avoid such problems.

Travel and visas in Uganda

Zambia’s visa rules appear, on reading them, to be very complex, so it is probably essential to ask at your nearest Zambian embassy or high commission , as they will know the latest news and how the rules are generally being interpreted.

Most visitors, including nationals of Great Britain and the USA, require a visa to enter Zambia. The current fee is US$50 for single entry and US$80 for a double entry, regardless of nationality. However, those staying for less than 24 hours – for example in transit to Botswana from Livingstone Airport – pay just US$20.

Most visas can be obtained on arrival at border posts (including international airports) on payment of the correct fee in US dollars cash. They are also available overseas from your local Zambian diplomatic mission, but applications for multiple-entry visas ( also US$80pp ) must be made in advance at the nearest Zambian embassy or high commission. You must have at least six months left on your passport, and at least three blank pages. You may also be asked to show an onward ticket, or at least demonstrate that you can support yourself as you pass through the country (credit cards are invaluable), but this is unusual.

In 2014 it became possible for travellers to both Zambia and Zimbabwe to obtain a dual visa, known as the KAZA Univisa, with 40 countries being eligible to receive one on arrival for a cost of US$50. The visa is available from Livingstone, Lusaka, Harare and Victoria Falls airports, and also from the land borders at Kazungula (with Botswana), and Victoria Falls, although acquiring one is less reliable here. The visa lasts for 30 days, provided that you stay within Zambia and Zimbabwe, and also allows 24 hours in Botswana. The visa was continued after a six-month trial, and has made cross-border travel between the two countries much easier and cheaper, ideal for those who want to see both sides of the Victoria Falls. There are long-term plans to extend it to include all southern African countries.

Getting there and away

However, you get to the subcontinent, if you don’t fly directly to Lusaka then do book your flight to Africa and any scheduled internal links between countries (eg: Nairobi–Lusaka or Johannesburg–Lusaka flights) at the same time. Booking the whole trip together is almost certain to save you money. Sometimes the airline taking you to Africa will have cheap regional flights within Africa; for example Johannesburg–Lusaka with South African Airways is usually much cheaper if booked with a SAA flight from London to Johannesburg, than it is if booked alone. At other times the tour operator you book through will have special deals if you book all the flights with them. And most importantly, if you book all your flights together then you’ll be sure to get connecting ones, so you have the best schedule possible.

Most overland border posts open from about 06.00 to 18.00, although this is less rigidly adhered to at the smaller, more remote posts. The paperwork required can be lengthy and time consuming, so allow plenty of time – and in some cases, such as at Kazungula on the border with Botswana, several hours.

Getting around

For those who want to fly internally in Zambia, the number of possibilities is increasing. Although only Proflight operates a scheduled service, offering internet booking with payment by credit card, several other local companies provide very reliable charters. None of the others is featured on any of the global flight reservations systems, so outside of Zambia (and even inside sometimes) most travel agents won’t have a clue about the intricacies of Zambia’s internal flights. You are strongly advised to book your internal flights through an experienced tour operator, who uses them regularly. (As an aside, this means that if the airline goes bust the tour operator loses money; you don’t.)

There are two totally separate rail systems in Zambia: ordinary trains and TAZARA (Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority) trains. Zambia’s ordinary rail network was privatised in 2003 and is now run by RSZ (Railway Systems of Zambia) on a 20-year contract – but only now is the system beginning to show indications of improvement. Passenger trains run on only one line, linking Livingstone Lusaka; the journey north to the Copperbelt has for now been discontinued. Once painfully slow, and rarely used by travellers – one local described the journey as ‘like signing a death warrant’ – it is now a weekly overnight service and is relatively competitive with buses on the same route.

In contrast, the TAZARA service is very popular with backpackers. It connects Kapiri Mposhi with the Indian Ocean, at Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. This is a reliable international transport link which normally runs to time and is by far the fastest way between Zambia and Tanzania with the exception of flying.

Zambia’s local buses are cheap, frequent and a great way to meet local people, although they can also be crowded, uncomfortable and noisy. In other words they are similar to any other local buses in Africa, and travel on them has both its joys and its frustrations. In the main bus stations, there are essentially two different kinds: the smaller minibuses, and the longer, larger ‘normal’ buses. Both will serve the same destinations, but the smaller ones tend to go faster and stop less. They may also be a little more comfortable. Their larger relatives will take longer to fill up before they leave the bus station (because few buses ever leave before they are full), and then go slower and stop at more places. For the smaller, faster buses there is usually a premium of about 20% on top of the price. Be aware, too, that even buses said to be running to a timetable may not depart until they are full, so check carefully what service you can expect – and ideally take a look at the bus on which you’ll be travelling too. A broken windscreen hints at poor overall maintenance.

Driving in Zambia is on the left, based on the UK’s model. However, the standard of driving is generally poor, matched only by the quality of the roads. Most roads in the cities, and the major arteries connecting these, are tar. These vary from silky-smooth recently laid roads, to pot-holed routes that test the driver’s skill at negotiating a ‘slalom course’ of deep holes, whilst avoiding the oncoming traffic that’s doing the same. Inconveniently, the smooth kind of road often changes into the holed variety without warning, so speeding on even the good tar is a dangerous occupation. Hitting a pot-hole at 40–60km/h will probably just blow a tyre; any faster and you risk damaging the suspension, or even rolling the vehicle.

When to visit Zambia

Situated squarely in the tropics, Zambia gets a lot of strong sunlight, though the intense heat normally associated with the tropics is moderated in most places by the country’s altitude and its rainfall. The climate is generally moderate; only in the great valleys does it feel oppressive. It can be summarised broadly into three periods: from December to April it is hot and wet, with torrential downpours often in the late afternoon; from May to August it is dry, and becomes increasingly cool; and from September to November it remains dry, but gets progressively hotter.

This follows a similar pattern to that in most of southern Africa, with rainfall when the sun is near its zenith from November to April. The precise timing and duration of this is determined by the interplay of three airstreams: the moist ‘Congo’ air-mass, the northeastern monsoon winds, and the southeastern trade winds. The water-bearing air is the Congo air-mass, which normally brings rain when it moves south into Zambia from central Africa. This means that the northern areas, around Lakes Tanganyika and Mweru, receive the first rainfall – often in late October or November. This belt of rain will then work south, arriving in southern Zambia by the end of November or the start of December.

As the sun’s intensity reduces, the Congo air-mass moves back north, leaving southern Zambia dry by around late March, and the north by late April or May. Most areas receive their heaviest rainfall in January, though some of the most northerly have two peaks: one in December and one in March. This twin-peak cycle is more characteristic of central and eastern Africa. The heaviest total rainfall is found in the north, and the lightest in the south. It’s worth adding a caveat here. Zambia, as elsewhere, is experiencing fluctuations in its traditional weather patterns, so while the traditional pattern remains a good guide, be prepared for variations from the norm.

When to visit

Many of Zambia’s tourists come during the dry season, with the peak being August to early October. Zambia’s small camps and lodges ensure that it never feels busy, even when everywhere is full. Others visit early or late in the season – May to July or November – because the camps are quieter and often costs are lower. The dry season (May to November), when you are unlikely to meet rain and can expect clear blue skies, is the easiest time to travel. It is ideal if this is your first trip to Africa, or if seeing lots of big game is top of your wish list.

June to August are the coolest months, then from September onwards the heat gradually builds up. Note, though, that where the altitude is relatively low – like the Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi Valley or Lake Tanganyika – the temperature is always higher. These places, especially, can get very hot towards the end of October, and occasions of over 40°C in the shade in the middle of the day have earned October the tag of ‘suicide month’ amongst the locals.

November is a variable month, but many days can be cooler than October, as the gathering clouds shield the earth from the sun. On some days these bring welcome showers; on others they simply build, and with them come tension and humidity. It’s always an interesting month.

A small but increasing number of visitors come during what’s known as the ‘emerald season’, from December to April. While the likelihood of rain means that this isn’t for everybody, it remains a fascinating time of year to visit. The camps that open then will often be quiet for days. Their rates can be much lower, and they’re often far more flexible about bringing children on safari.

At this time of year, the days can vary enormously from one to the next. Even within a day, skies will often change from sunny to cloudy within minutes and then back again. Downpours are usually heavy and short, and often in the late afternoon. Even in the lower valleys, temperatures are pleasant, rising to only around 30°C, and the nights only slightly cooler (typically down to perhaps 15°C). You will need a good waterproof for the rainy season, but it seldom rains for long enough to really stop you doing anything. Except travelling on bush roads …

What to see and do in Zambia

Kafue national park.

Kafue is a huge national park, two-and-a-half times the size of South Luangwa. Sadly, in the 1980s and early ’90s, few resources were devoted to its upkeep and anti-poaching efforts were left to a couple of dedicated souls from the few safari lodges that remained in the park. Now the situation is better. A steady trickle of visitors, supported by improving infrastructure and access to the park have added weight (and finance) to the on-going effort to build the park back up to its former glory. Even the park’s elephants are visibly recovering (both in number and in terms of losing some of their shyness), although it will be a while before they return to their former strength. It is very heartening to see that the rest of the game is thriving, and occurring in a volume and variety that bodes well for the future.

Lake Tanganyika

Lake Tanganyika is one of a series of geologically old lakes that have filled areas of the main East African Rift Valley. Look at a map of Africa and you will see many of these in a ‘string’ down the continent: lakes Malawi, Tanganyika, Kivu, Edward and Albert are some of the larger ones. Zambia just has a small tip of Tanganyika within its borders, but it is of importance to the country. Access to Lake Tanganyika grants Zambia a real port with transport links to a whole side of Tanzania and (during peaceable times) direct access to Burundi. It also makes this one corner of Zambia totally different from the rest of the country, with a mix of peoples and a ‘tropical central Africa’ feel. There are some well-established lakeside lodges, those to the east within striking distance of Kalambo Falls, and two in the vicinity of the little-known but viable Nsumbu National Park.

Liuwa Plain National Park

Liuwa Plain is as wild and remote as virtually any park in Africa; at the right time of year, its game is also as good as most of the best. The cliché ‘best-kept secret’ is applied with nauseating frequency to many places in Africa by copywriters who can’t think of anything original; this is perhaps one of the few places that would deserve it. Liuwa Plain has long been a very special place. It was declared a ‘game reserve’ as early as the 19th century by the king of Barotseland, and subsequently administered by the Litunga, or Lozi king. Traditionally, the park was the Litunga’s private hunting ground, and the people whose villages were located around the land were charged with looking after the animals for him. Then in 1972 it became a national park, and its management was taken over by central government. Although the local people retained utilisation rights of the park, grazing their animals, fishing in the rivers and pools, and harvesting plants for use in traditional crafts, their cultural connection with the land was broken, and poaching became rife. It was not until 2003, when the park was taken over by African Parks and the link with the Litunga reinstated, that the villagers regained stewardship. Now, in addition to their utilisation rights, they run campsites for visitors, and once more have an interest in the preservation of the wildlife.

Lower Zambezi National Park

The Lower Zambezi Valley, from the Kariba Dam to the Mozambique border, has a formidable reputation for big game – leading UNESCO to designate part of the Zimbabwean side as a World Heritage Site. The Lower Zambezi National Park protects a large section of the Zambian side. Across the river, much of the Zimbabwean side is protected by either Mana Pools National Park or various safari areas. This makes for a very large area of the valley devoted to wildlife, and a terrific amount of the bigger game, notably elephants and buffalo, actually cross the river regularly.

Shiwa Ng’andu

Before 2001, Shiwa’s only real story – and the only reason to visit – was its history: Gore-Browne and the estate’s past glories. Shiwa had been reduced to a curious anachronism in the African bush. By contrast, Shiwa’s history is now just that: history. A visit here today will look at the past, but also explore the present: Shiwa’s people, its animals and its environment – and how these are developing and changing. At one point during a stay here I saw a young carpenter making one of the internal windows over the courtyard. He was doing a good job, clearly deep in concentration. I asked him if he had also made some of the freshly painted windows on the outside of the house. ‘No,’ he replied, without pausing, ‘my grandfather made those.’ So by all means come to Shiwa to wonder at its past, and the story of Sir Stewart; but expect to leave enthralled by the present – and intrigued by the apparently seamless continuity between the two.

South Luangwa National Park

There are many contenders for the title of Africa’s best game park. The Serengeti, Amboseli, Ngorongoro Crater, Etosha, Kruger, Moremi and Mana Pools would certainly be high on the list. South Luangwa has a better claim than most. Some of these other areas will match its phenomenally high game densities. Many others – the lesser known of Africa’s parks – will have equally few visitors. One or two also allow night drives, which open up a different, nocturnal world to view, allowing leopards to be commonly seen and even watched whilst hunting. However, few have South Luangwa’s high quality of guiding together with its remarkable wildlife spectacles, day and night, in the isolation of a true wilderness. These elements, perhaps, are how the contenders ought to be judged, and on these the South Luangwa Park comes out as one of the highest on the list.

Victoria Falls

The Falls are 1,688m wide and average just over 100m in height. Around 550 million litres (750 million during peak months) cascade over the lip every minute, making this one of the world’s greatest waterfalls. Closer inspection shows that this immense curtain of water is interrupted by gaps, where small islands stand on the lip of the Falls. These effectively split the Falls into smaller waterfalls, which are known as (from west to east) the Devil’s Cataract, the Main Falls, the Horseshoe Falls, the Rainbow Falls and the Eastern Cataract. Around the Falls is a genuinely important and interesting rainforest, with plant species (especially ferns) rarely found elsewhere in Zimbabwe or Zambia. These are sustained by the clouds of spray, which blanket the immediate vicinity of the Falls. You’ll also find various monkeys and baboons here, whilst the lush canopy shelters Livingstone’s lourie amongst other birds.

If you want to view and compare sample itineraries, please see the  Zambia safari tours  section on SafariBookings. This comparison website lists tours offered by both local and international tour operators.   

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A Monthly Guide

A month by month guide to zambia.

Zambia remains arguably Africa’s most underrated safari destination, home to a wide range of incredible landscapes and abundant wildlife within its vast National Parks. From the open savannah, forests and floodplains of the South Luangwa to the vast Kafue National Park and the breathtaking Lower Zambezi, dominated by the eponymous river, it really does offer something for everyone. More experienced safari goers will revel in the chance to visit more off the beaten track parks such as North Luangwa, Luambe and Liuwa Plain – home to amazing wildlife and just a tiny handful of places to stay. Of course, no visit to Zambia would be complete without a few days at the iconic Victoria Falls and whilst water levels and the range of activities fluctuates throughout the year, it remains a wonderful place to spend a few days and round off a doubtless memorable safari through this hidden gem of a destination.

Many of the principal parks are almost entirely closed at this time owing to the high levels of rainfall received and associated challenges with accessing camps.

A handful of camps in the South Luangwa remain open, focusing on river journeys along the swollen channels of the Luangwa River. Known as Emerald Season, this is an amazing time of year for birders to spot the 400 and more species that are found here. Game viewing can be challenging, but the abundance of lion and elephant means that they are often still spotted.

The Liuwa Plain National Park in the west is open with visitors able to see huge herds of zebra as well as their attendant predators, roaming the plains.

Water levels at Victoria Falls are rising rapidly but a wide range of activities remains available before they reach their peak.

Emerald season remains in full swing with hot, wet days experienced across much of the country.

Water levels at Victoria Falls continue to rise and some of the activities which rely on lower water levels, including rafting, cease to operate. Walking tours can see visitors get very wet but they remain an attractive option.

Further afield the migration season in Liuwa Plain continues to thrill visitors who make the journey to this remote corner of the country and hardy travellers who head down to the Lower Zambezi can enjoy some superb fishing as well as marvel at the stunning landscapes. The opportunity to enjoy river journeys through the South Luangwa continues although this is the hottest and wettest time of year to be there.

The hot and wet summer continues to exert its grip on Zambia, although there is a noticeable easing in the rain and temperatures start to drop, with nighttimes especially becoming more bearable.

Many camps remain closed across the main National Parks, but river journeys are still offered in the South Luangwa, albeit with their scope a little more limited as water levels recede. Eagle-eyed visitors will notice more activity around the parks as operators are rebuilding and restocking their lodges for the upcoming safari season.

Water levels at Victoria Falls reach their peak as the floods from the summer rains reach the Upper Zambezi in earnest, sending up to 9,000 cubic metres of water crashing over the precipice every second. The spray can be seen from many miles away and is an especially spectacular sight for guests flying in to Livingstone.

Change is in the air across Zambia as National Parks and camps all prepare for a full scale opening, whilst Victoria Falls remains a spectacular sight as the peak flow continues down the Zambezi River.

The temperatures start to drop noticeably and rainfall eases as well, but many camps still remain closed across the main parks, albeit with them getting ready to go in May and June.

From the camps that are open in the South Luangwa guests can enjoy some hugely exciting wildlife sightings, with the herds of plains game starting to bring their young in to the more open areas which naturally brings the predators of the valley – most notably lion, leopard and wild dog – to the fore.

Equally some hugely exciting wildlife encounters can be enjoyed from the camps open in the Lower Zambezi National Park, especially right along the banks of the river where elephant come to drink and feed. Low season prices still apply across most safari camps so it is a superb time of year to travel.

Safari season starts to move into full swing now, with almost all camps open across the 3 major National Parks; South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi and Kafue .

Walking safaris start to become a possibility as the bush thins out and underfoot conditions become much drier, so visitors are able to enjoy one of Zambia’s signature activities and get really up close and personal with some of the smaller inhabitants of the bush.

General game viewing is rapidly improving as well, with consistently good big cat sightings across the parks and larger herds of elephant starting to be seen as surface water sources start to become more scarce across the parks.

At Victoria Falls water levels remain high, albeit they are past the peak and will start to drop rapidly as the dry season commences in earnest.

Most camps still offer lower pricing and plenty of special offers, so it remains an excellent time of year from a value perspective.

More adventurous and in-the-know safari goers will be thrilled that the Busanga Plains, a mystical area in the far north of the Kafue National Park have now seen water levels drop sufficiently to allow the handful of camps that operate there to open come June. Home to large herds of red lechwe, lion and leopard amongst others, this is a truly magical part of Zambia and one not to be missed.

Game viewing continues to improve rapidly across the rest of Kafue, as well in the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, with elephant and wild dog sightings becoming especially good.

At Victoria Falls the drop in water levels becomes more noticeable and the walking tours improve as there is less spray on the walkways.

Prices remain on the low side for the quality of the game viewing experience, so it remains an excellent time of year to be here from a value perspective.

The first month of Zambia’s peak safari season, July brings in cool, clear days that are perfect for game viewing. It is the first month where you really notice the green landscapes, a legacy of the long summer rains, turning to yellow and brown and game viewing across the country continues to improve as the bush thins out.

Elephant sightings in particular become very good as the large breeding herds for which Zambia is renowned move to the riverside areas in search of reliable water sources. Big cat sightings remain superb across the main parks, especially in the South Luangwa which is renowned as one of the best places in Africa to see leopard.

The final piece of the safari puzzle that is Zambia fits in to places as the North Luangwa National Park camps open their doors for visitors allowing for a very wild safari experience. A handful of camps retain their lower season pricing so there are still some bargains to be had if you plan carefully.

Safari season is very much here in Zambia now, with camps often full and visitors able to enjoy amazing wildlife viewing wherever they go.

Whether you are exploring by vehicle, on foot or out on the Zambezi and Kafue river in boats and canoes, this is a superb time of year to be here with animals wherever you look. As water sources continue to become more scarce, wildlife congregates in huge numbers by the rivers and it is a time of year where you can see some amazing interactions – lion trying to hunt hippo in the South Luangwa amongst them.

Water levels going over the Zambian side of Victoria Falls have fallen to virtually zero, although the deeper channels on the Zimbabwean side do still have water going over them. The end of August tends to be when Livingstone Island trips offer the chance to swim in The Devil’s Pool – an instagram-worthy moment where you bathe on the very edge of Victoria Falls.

Much like August, September is an outstanding time to be on safari in Zambia, with the days at their coolest and the threat of rain virtually non-existent.

With wildlife staying out in the open much longer it is perfect for either full day game drives to take advantage of the conditions, or an afternoon spent in one of the specially sited wildlife photography hides which are becoming a more prominent offering at many lodges.

Equally, it is a great time of year to head out on dedicated walking trails safaris within the South Luangwa, where you will spend 3-5 days exploring on foot and camping overnight in the bush. Kafue is at its absolute best come September, with especially strong lion sightings on the Busanga Plains a huge draw.

Water levels at Victoria Falls are at their lowest by now and will remain so until towards the end of the year, so thrill seekers can enjoy all manner of activities and the white water rafting is especially good at this time.

Change starts to come about in October, with days getting noticeably hotter and rain storms can happen towards the end of the month.

For many camps this is their last full month of being open, so a final chance to enjoy areas such as the Busanga Plains, the North Luangwa and Luambe National Parks. The main camp in the Liuwa Plain National Park reopens after closing for the dry season when the game disperses, so keen safari-goers can get back to search for lion and the unusually large clans of hyena which are such a feature of the park.

The Lower Zambezi must get a mention as being outstanding for safaris in October with huge volumes of herbivores and predators found around the Zambezi River, as well as the tributaries that run in there from the surrounding escarpment.

Victoria Falls remains a delight as well, with the low water levels in the river allowing for sandbar picnics and sundowner drinks from the lodges further upstream.

There is a distinct winding down of operations across many of the lodges across the start of November as the pack-up for the rainy summer season.

A small handful of lodges around the more accessible Mfuwe area of the South Luangwa remain open, continuing to offer game drives before the rains arrive in earnest, after which they will revert to the boat safaris that they offer at the start of the year. The Liuwa Plain National Park remains a more than viable option for experienced safari-goers who want to experience something very different and whilst the game viewing here can be challenging on occasion, it is a remarkable spot to spend a few days.

The perennial favourite that is Victoria Falls continues to offer an amazing array of activities as well as a superb spot to relax for a few days after a busy safari.

As another year in the bush draws to a close, temperatures continue to soar and rainfall becomes an almost daily occurrence, rapidly filling the vast rivers which are such a feature of the Zambian National Parks.

For the few lodges that remain open the focus shifts almost entirely to river activities and guests can enjoy exploring the lush green landscapes that offer superb birding as well as surprisingly good predator sightings.

Further afield Liuwa Plain remains a great choice for visitors looking for a very alternative safari experience and the low water levels at Victoria Falls still allow for a huge array of activities as well as some time to relax in the sunshine.

As you will be able to see, Zambia is without doubt one of the more seasonal safari destinations within Africa, with large parts of the country inaccessible during the summer rains, although some camps do remain open. The “shoulder” seasons of April-June and November offer some of the best value safaris anywhere in Africa with amazing wildlife sightings on offer, whilst the peak season is as good as anywhere that the continent has to offer. Zambia may not have the reputation of its more illustrious neighbours Botswana and Tanzania, or indeed Kenya, but it is a worthy candidate for being the most underrated safari destination in Africa and it remains hard to beat from a value perspective. A genuine True Travel favourite, please speak to one of our team of Africa Travel Designers to plan your trip in more detail.

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Introducing Zambia

About zambia.

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• Travel to Zambia
• Where to stay

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Zambia travel guide

Vast lakes and wetlands, long and life-giving rivers, breathtaking African sunsets and a rich tradition of guiding all contribute to Zambia’s immense appeal as a safari destination.

Its most famous landmark, Victoria Falls, which it shares with Zimbabwe, attracts nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Visit in March or April, when the falls are in full spate, and you’ll be bowled over by the rainbows, the roar of the cascading water and the dense, drenching clouds of spray.

Livingstone, the closest urban hub to the falls and once Zambia’s colonial capital, has a number of accommodation options, colourful markets and a busy restaurant and nightlife scene. The mighty Zambezi River itself is glassy-smooth above the falls and wild below. It’s perfect for booze cruises, canoe safaris and adrenaline activities such as white-water rafting and river surfing. There are a plethora of beautiful riverside lodges dotted along its banks.

Beyond the falls, Zambia is not as high-profile a safari destination as Kenya, Tanzania or South Africa, but it’s a favourite with those in the know. Packed with untamed wilderness and fascinating wildlife, minus the crowds, Zambia is the African bush at its most raw and romantic.

The country’s excellent safari lodges and camps will put you fully in touch with your wild surroundings. You’ll fall asleep to the hooting of owls, the whooping of hyenas, the distant roar of lions, and the loud munching of hippos grazing nearby.

Almost a third of Zambia’s landmass is given over to national parks and game reserves, but South Luangwa National Park is the cream of the crop for sheer density of big game. It’s also the home of the legendary African walking safari.

Another of Zambia’s drawcards is the people. The country is home to a staggering 72 different ethnic groups, each of whom have their own distinctive cultural traits and traditions, but all of whom are unfailingly warm and welcoming.

752,614 sq km (290,586 sq miles).

16,717,332 (UN estimate 2016).

20 per sq km.

President Hakainde Hichilema since 2021.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers

LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Zambia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Zambian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Zambia.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Zambia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. It must have at least 2 blank pages for entry stamping.  

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationality

Zambia recognises dual nationality. However, to avoid delays at the airport you should leave Zambia on the same passport you used to enter.

Visa requirements

British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Zambia. You must be able to show:

• valid return or onward tickets
• enough money for your stay

Tourists may remain in Zambia for a total of 90 days in any 12 month period. For business visitors the maximum stay in Zambia over a 12 month period is 30 days.

For further information, email the Zambian High Commission at [email protected] or contact the Zambian Department of Immigration .

KAZA UNIVISA

The KAZA UNIVISA, for use in the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, is valid for unlimited travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe and for day trips to Botswana. It costs 50 US dollars and is valid for 30 days.

You can apply online in advance , or get the visa on arrival if you are arriving at:

• Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Lusaka
• Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport, Livingstone
• by land at Livingstone, Victoria Falls (Zambia-Zimbabwe border)
• by land at Kazungula (Zambia-Botswana border)

Departure tax

On leaving Zambia, all air passengers must pay the equivalent to 25 US dollars for international travel and a security charge of 3 US dollars for domestic travel. Both charges are normally included in the cost of an air ticket, but you will have to pay in cash with Zambian kwacha if they are not.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Zambia guide .

Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Zambia . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Zambia .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Zambia

Terrorist attacks in Zambia cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.  

Political situation

There are occasionally demonstrations and protests in Lusaka and other urban areas. They can disrupt local transport and become violent. Avoid them and leave the scene as soon as possible if a crowd develops. Do not cross protester roadblocks as this is likely to provoke a violent reaction from demonstrators.

Travel in larger cities and the major game parks is generally safe during daylight hours. However, serious crimes can happen. Pre-arrange transport to avoid walking at night and stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. Stay alert and take precautions against vehicle crime by:

• keeping windows closed and doors locked when travelling
• ignoring hitchhikers or anyone trying to flag you down
• watching out for potential carjackers when approaching locked gateways at night, or if an object has been placed to block the road
• only using cars arranged for you by a hotel or tour operator

Keep valuables and originals of important documents in a safe place and carry a copy of your passport’s photo page and entry stamp.

Laws and cultural differences

Pornography laws.

It is illegal to possess pornographic material in Zambia, and offenders may be jailed or deported.

Illegal drugs

It is illegal to possess or use drugs, including marijuana. Drug use and smuggling are serious offences.

Using cameras in secure areas

It’s illegal to take pictures of sensitive sites such as army barracks or government buildings, and you could be arrested. If in doubt, do not take pictures.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Zambia, and anyone convicted can get a long prison sentence.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. Anyone caught purchasing or trafficking such goods will be prosecuted and get a fine or a prison sentence.  

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Wild animals in the bush, including venomous snakes, are unpredictable and do kill. Whether you are travelling on land or water, you are at risk of potentially fatal animal attacks.

Adventure sports, including in the Victoria Falls area, carry risks. There have been serious accidents and deaths. The quality of medical care varies greatly. Follow safety instructions closely. Make sure you have appropriate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment or potential repatriation.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Zambia, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Zambia for up to 90 days. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence . If you plan to stay in Zambia for more than 90 days, you’ll need to have the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) or a Zambian driving licence.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP .  

Road conditions and driving standards

Many roads are severely potholed. During the rainy season from November to April, sudden floods can wash away bridges and roads.

Vehicles in Zambia are often inadequately maintained and badly driven. There are frequent fatal crashes. Drink-driving and driving while on a mobile are illegal but commonplace. Zambia’s Road Traffic and Safety Agency prosecutes traffic offenders through a fast-track court system.

It is dangerous to drive outside the main towns after dark due to abandoned vehicles, pedestrians and stray animals on the road, and vehicles being driven without lights.

Buses and minibuses

Travel by long-distance public transport can be dangerous due to poor standards of driving, lack of rest periods for drivers, the poor quality of vehicles and poor road conditions. Minibuses in urban areas are usually severely overcrowded, poorly maintained and badly driven.

This section has safety advice for regions of Zambia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Zambia- DRC border

Take care when travelling in rural parts of Zambia, close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo ( DRC ). The border is not demarcated and there is a risk of inadvertently illegally entering DRC .

Legitimate border crossings in these areas are generally safe.  

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccination recommendations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Zambia guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Parts of Zambia, including Lusaka, are experiencing a cholera outbreak which is spreading across the country. You can take  measures to reduce the risk of cholera infection .

There is currently an outbreak of anthrax in Zambia, affecting rural and urban areas. Do not touch dead animals or carcases. Buy meat only from reputable butchers and ensure that meat is thoroughly cooked. Avoid animal products that could have been sourced from animals that may have died of natural causes. If you suspect that you have come into contact with anthrax, seek urgent medical advice.

The UNAIDS Zambia country progress report of 2020 estimated the overall HIV prevalence in the adult population is 11%, compared to a prevalence of 0.2% in adults in the UK. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.  

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Zambia

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Zambia .

Medical facilities throughout Zambia are of a lower standard than in the UK. Facilities in rural areas are basic and emergency services are limited. Carry basic medical supplies. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Zambia

Police: 991

Ambulance: 992

Fire: 993  

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding lawyers and funeral directors in Zambia
• dealing with a death in Zambia
• being arrested or imprisoned in Zambia
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Zambia and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British High Commission in Lusaka .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Quick Facts

Best Time To Go

Cost & Spending

Travel Tips

Regions & Highlights

What To See & Do

What To Eat

Where To Stay

Trip Planning

Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

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Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! ​We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.

ZAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Zambia, in southern Africa, is a landlocked country of rugged terrain and diverse wildlife, with many parks and safari areas. On its border with Zimbabwe is famed Victoria Falls – indigenously called Mosi-oa-Tunya , or "Smoke That Thunders” – plunging a misty 108m into narrow Batoka Gorge. Spanning the Zambezi River just below the falls is Victoria Falls Bridge, a spectacular viewpoint.

The country has retained its virgin, untamed wilderness that throbs with wildlife and exotic birds. The scenery is breathtaking and the road network just ideal for a discovery drive around the country.

⬇️ REGIONAL GUIDES ⬇️

Travel guide.

⬇️ COUNTRY GUIDE ⬇️

• Capital : Lusaka
• Currency : Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
• Area : 752,614 km²
• Population : 17,35 million (2018)
• Language : English (official), Bemba, Kaonda, Lozi, Lunda, Luvale, Nyanja, Tonga, and about 70 other indigenous languages
• Religion :Christian (50%-75%), Muslim and Hindu (24%-49%), indigenous beliefs (1%)
• Electricity : 230V/50Hz, Plug type C/D/G
• 2nd Monday in March, Youth Day
• 1 May, Labor Day
• 25 May, Africa Day
• 1st Monday in July, Heroes’ Day
• 1st Tuesday in July, Unity Day
• 1st Monday in August, Farmers’ Day
• 24 October, Independence Day

Also, Good Friday through Easter Monday.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR

<<VISA RESULT>>

<< Visa Details >>

For the latest requirements or for application click

Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

BEST TIME TO VISIT ZAMBIA

Zambia has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season, also known as the "long rains," typically runs from November to April. During this time, the country experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. The dry season, also known as the "short rains," runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with very little rainfall. This is considered the best time to visit Zambia as it is perfect for outdoor activities such as safari tours and wildlife viewing.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

The best time for outdoor activities and game viewing in Zambia is during the dry season, from May to November.

Best Beaches

River surfing is growing in popularity worldwide and one of the world’s most dangerous river wave lies somewhere along the mighty Zambezi River in Zambia.

Kitesurfing: Spot Maps, Wind Season

LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES

Find your perfect destination.

Advanced, real-time destination filter by visa required, region, health risk, travel budget, country value, tourist seasons, best weather and activity or sport.

BLOG POSTS ON ZAMBIA

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ZAMBIA TRAVEL COSTS

The cost of traveling to Zambia can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you plan to do.

Here are some estimates for different aspects of travel in Zambia:

• Airfare: Round-trip airfare to Zambia can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 or more, depending on your departure city and the time of year you travel.
• Accommodations: Prices for accommodations in Zambia can range from around $10 to $50 per night for budget-friendly options such as camping and hostels, to several hundred dollars per night for luxury lodges and hotels.
• Food: You can find local food in Zambia for around $3 to $5 per meal.
• Transportation: The cost of transportation in Zambia can vary depending on the mode of transport you choose and the distance you travel. For example, a bus ride from Lusaka to Livingstone can cost around $15, while a private car and driver can cost around $100 per day.
• Activities: The cost of activities such as safari tours, wildlife viewing, and visits to Victoria Falls can vary widely, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 or more per activity.

Overall, you should budget around $50 to $100 per day for budget travel, and $150 to $300 for more comfortable travel.

Please keep in mind that these are estimates and costs can vary greatly depending on your choices and needs.

Here is a sample budget for a one-week trip to Zambia:

• Airfare: $800 (round-trip from the US)
• Accommodations: $300 ($50 per night for a budget-friendly guesthouse)
• Food: $150 ($10 to $15 per meal)
• Transportation: $50 (bus rides, taxis)
• Activities: $300 (safari tour, visit to Victoria Falls, cultural activities)
• Other expenses: $50 (souvenirs, miscellaneous expenses)

Total: $1,550

Please note that this is a sample budget and costs can vary greatly depending on your individual choices and needs. Also, these prices might change due to inflation or other factors.

It's also important to note that this budget does not include international travel insurance, visa fees and vaccinations, which are necessary for the trip.

VALUE RANK:

Find discount flights to, travel tips for zambia.

Here are some travel tips for Zambia:

• Bring a valid passport and make sure it has at least six months of validity remaining beyond your travel dates.
• Check visa requirements for your country and obtain any necessary visas well in advance of your trip.
• Make sure you have up-to-date vaccinations and consider getting travel insurance.
• Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the season and activities you plan to do.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated.
• Learn a few basic phrases in the local language (Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja) it can be helpful when communicating with locals.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
• Be mindful of your surroundings when traveling, and take precautions to protect yourself from theft and crime.
• Bring cash, as credit card acceptance is limited in Zambia, although it's becoming more common in bigger cities and tourist areas.
• While in Zambia, be sure to visit the Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonder of the world. Also, consider taking a safari tour to see the diverse wildlife in the country.
• If you are planning to visit national parks or other protected areas, be sure to check with the relevant authorities in advance to ensure that you have the necessary permits and permissions.
• Be aware of the safety and health concerns, such as Malaria and yellow fever and take necessary precautions.

By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Zambia.

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF ZAMBIA

Zambia is divided into ten provinces, each with its own unique culture, history, and attractions. Here is an overview of some of the main regions of Zambia and their highlights:

• Lusaka : Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia. The city is known for its bustling markets, museums, and cultural attractions, such as the National Museum and the Freedom Statue.
• Copperbelt : The Copperbelt is the heart of Zambia's mining industry, and is home to the towns of Kitwe and Ndola. This region is known for its history of mining and its industrial heritage.
• Northern Province : The Northern Province is known for its wilderness areas, including the Liuwa Plain National Park, the Kafue National Park, and the Lochinvar National Park. These parks are known for their diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs.
• Muchinga Province : The Muchinga Province is known for its mountainous terrain and beautiful scenery. The province is home to the Muchinga Escarpment, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It also home to the South Luangwa National Park, one of the most popular game parks in Africa, known for its high concentration of leopards.
• Luapula Province : The Luapula Province is known for its beautiful lakes and waterfalls, including the Mambilima Falls and the Kapampa Hot Springs. It's also known for its rich culture and traditional dances.
• Western Province : The Western Province is known for its rugged terrain and beautiful wilderness areas, including the Bangweulu Wetlands and the Busanga Plains. It's also known for the beautiful Lake Mweru Wantipa, which is a great spot for fishing and boating.
• Eastern Province : The Eastern Province is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. It's also home to the Nyika National Park, a beautiful wilderness area with rolling hills and grasslands.
• Central Province : The Central Province is known for its beautiful lakes and rivers, including the Kafue River and the Itezhi-Tezhi Dam. It's also home to the Chongwe River Camp, a popular spot for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
• Southern Province : The Southern Province is known for its beautiful wilderness areas, including the Lower Zambezi National Park and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. It's also home to the Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world, which is a must-see attraction in Zambia.
• North-Western Province : The North-Western Province is known for its beautiful wilderness areas, including the Liuwa Plain National Park, the Kafue National Park, and the Lochinvar National Park, which are home to diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery.

These are just some of the highlights of the different regions of Zambia, and there is much more to explore and discover in this beautiful country.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN ZAMBIA

Zambia is a country with a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and history. Here are some of the best things to see and do when visiting Zambia:

• Visit Victoria Falls : Known as one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is a must-see attraction in Zambia. The falls are located on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border and offer spectacular views of the water cascading down a sheer cliff. Visitors can take a boat ride to Livingstone Island for a close-up view of the falls, or take a helicopter or microlight flight for a bird's-eye view.
• Go on a safari : Zambia is home to many national parks and game reserves that offer a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Some popular safari destinations include South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Liuwa Plain National Park.
• Explore the Copperbelt : The Copperbelt region is known for its mining heritage and is home to the towns of Kitwe and Ndola. Visitors can learn about the history of mining in the region, and visit the Mufulira Mine Museum and the Ndola Museum.
• Visit traditional villages : Zambia is home to many traditional villages that offer a glimpse into the country's rich culture and history. Visitors can learn about traditional customs and practices, and see traditional dances and music performances.
• Explore the wilderness areas : Zambia is home to many beautiful wilderness areas, including the Bangweulu Wetlands, the Busanga Plains, and the Liuwa Plain National Park. These areas are known for their diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery.
• Experience the local culture : Zambia is home to many different cultures and traditions, and visitors can learn about them by visiting local markets, museums, and cultural centers. Visitors can also attend traditional ceremonies and festivals, such as the Kuomboka ceremony, which is held annually on the Zambezi River.
• Relax at the lake : Lake Tanganyika is the second deepest lake in the world, and the second-largest fresh water lake by volume. It's a great spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and relaxing.
• Go white water rafting : The Zambezi River is a great place for white water rafting and kayaking, with some of the best rapids in the world.
• Take a bird-watching trip : Zambia is home to a wide variety of bird species, and is a great destination for bird-watching. Popular bird-watching destinations include the Bangweulu Wetlands, the Kafue Flats, and the Liuwa Plain National Park.

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Zambia, and there is much more to explore and discover in this beautiful country.

WHAT TO EAT IN ZAMBIA

Zambia has a diverse culinary scene that reflects the country's various cultures and traditions. Here are some of the best foods to try when visiting Zambia:

• Nshima : This is a traditional staple food made from ground corn (maize) and is served with a variety of stews and vegetables. It's a commonly eaten food in Zambia and is usually eaten with the hands.
• Chikanda : This is a traditional snack made from ground tubers and is often flavored with spices and herbs. It's usually eaten as a side dish or as a snack.
• Fried fish : Fish is a popular food in Zambia, and it's often served fried with a variety of sides such as rice, vegetables, and salad.
• Ndiwo : This is a traditional relish made from ground peanuts and is often served with nshima. It's a popular food in Zambia and is enjoyed by many.
• Chicken and beef : Chicken and beef are also popular meats in Zambia and are often grilled or stewed with a variety of spices and herbs.
• Cassava leaves and other greens : Cassava leaves and other greens are a common ingredient in Zambian cuisine and are often served as a side dish or as a main ingredient in a stew.
• Fruits : Zambia is home to a wide variety of tropical fruits, including papayas, pineapples, and mangoes. These fruits are often used to make fresh juices and smoothies.
• Traditional drinks : Visitors can try a traditional beer made from millet or sorghum. Also, you can try a traditional drink made from the marula fruit known as "Mwenge" which is a sweet and sour concoction.

These are just a few examples of the delicious foods that you can try when visiting Zambia. Keep in mind that availability of some of these foods may vary depending on the region and the season. Be open-minded and try new things, you might discover new delicious foods.

LGBTQ IN ZAMBIA

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WHERE TO STAY IN ZAMBIA

When visiting Zambia for the first time, there are several regions worth considering, each offering unique attractions and experiences. Here are some options along with reasons and accommodation suggestions for each:

Where To Stay In Livingstone and Victoria Falls

Livingstone is the gateway to the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of the falls, as well as enjoy adventure activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and helicopter tours.

Budget accommodation:   Jollyboys Backpackers - Located in Livingstone town, this hostel offers budget-friendly dormitory beds and private rooms, with a swimming pool, bar, and social atmosphere.

Mid-range accommodation:   Avani Victoria Falls Resort - Situated within walking distance of Victoria Falls, this resort offers comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, a swimming pool, and access to the falls via a private pathway.

Luxury accommodation:   Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara - This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, gourmet dining options, a spa, and exclusive views of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls.

Where To Stay In South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its rich wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and night drives to observe the diverse flora and fauna.

Budget accommodation:   Croc Valley Camp - Located on the banks of the Luangwa River, this camp offers budget-friendly safari tents and chalets, with guided safaris and bush walks available.

Mid-range accommodation:   Flatdogs Camp - Situated near the park entrance, this camp offers comfortable tents and chalets, a swimming pool, and guided safaris led by experienced guides.

Luxury accommodation:   Mfuwe Lodge - This luxury lodge offers spacious chalets with private decks overlooking a lagoon frequented by wildlife, gourmet dining options, a spa, and exclusive game drives.

Where To Stay In Lower Zambezi National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park offers stunning landscapes along the Zambezi River, with opportunities for game viewing, fishing, canoeing, and boat safaris. Visitors can spot elephants, buffalo, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

Budget accommodation:   Kiambi Safari Lodge - Located on the banks of the Zambezi River, this lodge offers budget-friendly chalets and camping facilities, with guided safaris and river activities available.

Mid-range accommodation:   Chongwe River Camp - Situated on the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers, this camp offers luxurious tents and suites, gourmet dining options, and guided safaris led by knowledgeable guides.

Luxury accommodation:   Royal Zambezi Lodge - This luxury lodge offers spacious suites with private decks overlooking the Zambezi River, gourmet dining options, a spa, and exclusive game drives and river cruises.

Each of these regions in Zambia offers its own unique experiences and accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're interested in witnessing the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, embarking on thrilling safaris, or enjoying river activities, Zambia has something to offer for every traveler.

For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like   Booking.com  for competitive rates or   Holiday Swap  for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.

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Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. For longer stays, find unique homes worldwide on Holiday Swap , the most affordable travel platform that allows you to book homes anytime, anywhere in only a few clicks.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Best Things To Do In Zambia, According To A Local

• Activities and Interests
• Africa National Parks
• Destinations
• National Parks

Zambia, the warm heart of Africa, is my adopted home and has been for a couple of decades now. I came here on a six-week holiday, not long after my 21st birthday, and now, pushing 50, I’m still here! 

Zambia is a beautiful country, a nation of friendly, hospitable people and incredible natural resources. Wild and relatively unpopulated, Zambia is not as well known as some of her neighbors, but she is, without doubt, one of the best all-around safari destinations in Africa. From remote bush camps to elegant safari lodges, from world-famous walking safaris to adrenaline-filled activities for the whole family. With so much to offer, you may never want to leave — just like me!

Here are my suggestions for places and experiences I believe should be included in a visit to this amazing country.

1. Livingstone And The Victoria Falls

Where better to start a Zambian journey than Livingstone and the famous Victoria Falls . Victoria Falls is the adrenaline capital of Africa: think bungee jumping, white-water rafting, microlight flights, and more. But if all that all sounds a little too much action for you, then perhaps game drives, fishing, sunset river cruises, or shopping in the local markets are more your cup of tea. One activity I would highly recommend is a helicopter flight, known as the “Flight of Angels” over the Falls. Livingstone, the town closest to Victoria Falls on the Zambian side, was named after Scottish explorer and missionary, David Livingstone. Livingstone is a great place for a few days at the start or finish of a safari, and a visit to Victoria Falls is one of the top tourist experiences in the whole of Africa.

My favorite place to stay when visiting Livingstone is Thorntree River Lodge, a beautiful haven on the banks of the Zambezi River, inside the Mosi oa Tunya National Park and upstream of Victoria Falls. For booking your activities, let me suggest Livingstone’s Adventure  

2. Lower Zambezi National Park

After enjoying Livingstone and the spectacle of the Victoria Falls, it’s definitely time for a safari, and there are many places in Zambia where you can do this. Let’s start by heading downstream from falls to the Lower Zambezi National Park. The beauty of the Lower Zambezi lies in its wildness. The park is surrounded by large game management areas, and there are no fences between the two, so animals are free to roam throughout the entire land area. The park lies opposite the famous Mana Pools Reserve in Zimbabwe, so both sides of the river form a huge wildlife sanctuary.

The diversity of animals in the Lower Zambezi might not be as wide as some parks, but there are great opportunities to get up close to the wildlife — herds of elephants, prides of lions, solitary leopards, and packs of wild dogs. The river itself is home to hippos, crocodiles, and the coveted tiger fish. A range of activities are on tap: game viewing drives, canoe trips, walking safaris, and some of the finest tiger fishing in the world (on a catch and release basis).

I love to stay with Anabezi who has three camps to choose from, and some very patient fishing guides! Or if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, then I’d recommend Tusk & Mane that operates terrific mobile safaris.

3. Kafue National Park

Kafue is Zambia’s oldest and largest national park and has a diversity of wildlife that is probably the most numerous in all of Africa. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are found here, wild dogs range through the park, and there are more antelope species than anywhere else on the continent. The Kafue River and its tributaries provide opportunities for canoeing and boat safaris. The north of the Kafue National Park is dominated by the Busanga Plains, which floods annually, creating a rich habitat with incredible birdlife and wildlife viewing. Kafue National Park represents 36 percent of Zambia’s national parkland and, when combined with the surrounding game management area, the total adds up to a staggering 9 percent of the country’s entire landmass.

With such a vast area of land to cover, there are obviously many different options for accommodations. For Busanga Plains in the north, I’d recommend Busanga Plains Camp . Another highly recommended place to stay in Kafue is Musekese Camp . When last at Musekese, we had a young male leopard in camp every night. Left behind when his mother went out to hunt and as the rest of the camp slept, this bored youngster would take “cat naps” on the sofa, tap dance along the bar counter, and really “sink his teeth into” the lodge’s library books. 

4. South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa is the best-known of Zambia’s national parks. Located In the east of Zambia, this is one of the most unspoiled natural habitats in Africa, with some of the highest concentrations of animals on the continent. The area is home to around 60 animal species and over 400 species of birds. South Luangwa is a gem of a national park, with incredible wildlife viewing, excellent guiding, and a range of accommodation options —  from luxury bush camps to sleep-outs under the stars. Nicknamed “Valley of the Leopard,” this is a good place to see that beautiful cat. Hippos abound; The Luangwa River boasts some of the densest hippo populations in all of Africa. South Luangwa also offers excellent walking safaris, providing a unique way to experience and observe the bush. The park is also unusual in that “night drives” are permitted, and these drives offer an amazing opportunity to see some of the park’s nocturnal species by torchlight, at the same time, the game are at their most active.

The main entrance to the park is the Mfuwe Gate. The area here is the busiest part of South Luangwa and an ideal place for less experienced safari visitors to start. The game concentration is higher here, but with that comes a higher concentration of safari vehicles, which at times can get hectic, with drivers and guides all trying to get their clients the best position at lion kills or wild dog sightings. Further north in the park, things are quieter but wilder. I once had the privilege of spending several days on a walking safari here with Deb Title, one of the most expert safari guides in Zambia. With more than 2,500 safari walks under her belt, Deb is an expert at interpreting the sights and sounds of the bush and at understanding, anticipating, and explaining animal behavior. A safari with her is like no other.

If a walking safari and hours on foot each day is not your “thing,” look no further than one of my favorites in the park, the relatively new Shawa Luangwa . Green Safaris, owners of Shawa Luangwa, are pioneers of the silent safari (incredibly quiet solar-powered, electric game drive vehicles), and the company’s operating ethos is firmly grounded in sustainability, conservation, and community development. As a bonus, the staff and guides are incredibly friendly. A once in a lifetime stay at Time and Tide’s luxurious Chinzombo Camp is also highly recommended.  

5. North Luangwa National Park

Heading north from South Luangwa is the little-visited North Luangwa National Park, home to Zambia’s only black rhinos, and some of the highest lion densities in the region. Remote and wild, this park is only accessible by flight, or with someone with good bush driving skills. Walking in North Luangwa is the way to explore this park. With few roads and even fewer people, you are unlikely to see anyone else for the duration of your safari. With only a handful of safari camps, North Luangwa is a great addition to a Zambian visit, especially for anyone wanting to explore the country’s more secret destinations. It’s also home to an elephant stronghold 

Remote Africa Safaris with its fabulous Mwaleshi and Takwela Camps, and unparalleled walking safaris, are the people to talk to for a North Luangwa visit.

6. Bangweulu Wetlands

On the topic of Zambia’s hidden gems, let’s move on to the Bangweulu wetlands. Bangweulu isn’t included on many tourists’ itineraries and getting here isn’t straightforward (the easiest way is by chartered plane). Bangweulu means “where water meets the sky,” which perfectly describes one of Africa’s most extraordinary and important wetlands. This is not a national park, this is a community-owned protected area, home to 50,000 people (predominantly seasonal fishermen) and over 50,000 endemic, magnificent black lechwe antelope. The wetlands are also home to the iconic shoebill, making this a must-visit place for any serious birdwatcher.

Shoebill Island Camp is the perfect place to stay to feel really immersed in this incredible part of Zambia.

7. Liuwa Plain

560 miles from the Bangweulu wetlands, on the other side of Zambia, is the equally remote and off-the-beaten-track Liuwa Plains. Liuwa is a magnificent wilderness of seasonally flooded grass plains and wooded islands. This is home to Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, growing lion and cheetah populations, thousands of zebras, and more than 50 hyena clans (the park’s apex predator). Flocks of cranes swirl over the vast savannah. Liuwa is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. The only way to reach here, without the time and intrepid driving skills, is by charter flight.

Time and Tide’s King Lewanika Camp is the only permanent camp in Liuwa Plain National Park and is the essence of luxury.

And there you have my suggestions for the quintessential Zambian visit.

I must say that I feel I’ve been a little remiss in not mentioning a couple other of Zambia’s special places, so allow me to give them a fleeting mention here:

Kasanka National Park is home to the largest mammal migration in the world (10,000,000 straw-colored fruit bats). Lake Tanganyika is the longest freshwater lake in the world, as well as its second-oldest, second-largest, and second-deepest (Zambia can only claim 7 percent of Tanganyika’s surface area). Shiwa Ngandu, a grand English-style country house in Northern Zambia, was the lifelong project of Sir Stewart Gore Brown, an Englishman who fell in love with the spot while surveying the Northern Rhodesia and Belgian Congo boundary and started building the house in 1920. Nearby is the beautiful Kapishya Hot Springs. Northern Zambia is home to an array of waterfalls, including Kalambo Falls, Africa’s second-highest single-drop waterfall (725 feet, which is twice the height of Victoria Falls). Lastly, Lusaka, the capital, was my home for several years, but I am going to suggest that as part of a Zambian holiday, Lusaka should be a transit stop only and not somewhere you spend any extended time.

And now, I promise, I’m really done with my recommendations for your Zambian holiday. Perhaps one day, our fortunes will allow us to bump into each other here.

Safari lovers will be amazed at the opportunities to see magnificent wildlife up close and personal:

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Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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Zambia Travel Guide

Every minute detail was taken care of and I felt so pampered and relaxed. They took care of all our drop-offs, pick-ups, and COVID tests and guided us through visas. Alym was so great to work with and so attentive to detail. He and his staff were always a text away from answering our questions. The camps were top notch and the food was amazing. Everything exceeded my expectations. Love Kenya!!! Best adventure of my life!!!

Zambia is a landlocked country located in southern Africa, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and diverse culture. It is home to the mighty Zambezi River and the famous Victoria Falls, as well as numerous national parks and game reserves where visitors can spot elephants, lions, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Zambia is also known for its vibrant music and dance scene, with traditional rhythms blending with modern influences. The country has a rich history and cultural heritage, with various ethnic groups and languages adding to its diversity. Overall, Zambia is a country full of adventure and wonder, with plenty to offer for any traveler seeking an unforgettable African experience.

Before You Go

Your holiday decisions — where you go, how often you travel, the hotels or lodges you stay in, even the season you travel in – can make a huge difference to your African Journey… This is going to be the best guide to find out before visiting any African countries!

When To Travel To Zambia

The best time to travel to Zambia depends on your interests and preferences, as different seasons offer different experiences.

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit Zambia as the weather is cooler and drier, making it easier to spot wildlife as they congregate around water sources. This period is also the peak season for tourism, so expect higher prices and bigger crowds.

The wet season, from November to April, is characterized by hot and humid weather with occasional thunderstorms. While the rain can make some roads impassable and limit access to some national parks, it is a great time for bird-watching and seeing lush green vegetation. Additionally, this is the low season for tourism, meaning lower prices and fewer crowds.

Overall, the best time to visit Zambia depends on your priorities, budget, and preferences.

Top Things To Do In Zambia

Zambia offers visitors a variety of attractions and activities. Here are some of the top things to do in Zambia:

Visit Victoria Falls: Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is a must-see attraction in Zambia. It is the largest waterfall in the world and offers a spectacular view.

Go on a safari: Zambia is home to several national parks, including South Luangwa National Park, Kafue National Park, and Lower Zambezi National Park, where you can go on a safari and see a wide range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes.

Go white water rafting: The Zambezi River offers some of the best white water rafting in the world, with rapids ranging from grade three to grade five.

Visit Livingstone Island: Livingstone Island is located at the edge of Victoria Falls and offers a unique view of the waterfall. Visitors can swim in the Devil’s Pool, a natural pool on the edge of the falls.

Take a sunset cruise: The Zambezi River offers stunning sunset views, and a sunset cruise is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What To Eat & Drink In Zambia

Zambia has a rich culinary tradition, influenced by its diverse cultures and natural resources. Here are some of the most popular foods and drinks to try in Zambia:

Nshima: Nshima is a staple food in Zambia, made from white maize flour and served with a variety of stews, vegetables, and meats.

Grilled meats: Zambia has a strong barbecue culture, and grilled meats such as beef, chicken, and fish are popular.

Ifisashi: Ifisashi is a stew made with groundnuts (peanuts), spinach, and spices, served with nshima.

Chikanda: Chikanda is a snack made from ground peanuts, cassava, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Munkoyo: Munkoyo is a traditional drink made from fermented maize or cassava, with a sour taste and low alcohol content.

The Best Souvenirs To Buy In Zambia

Zambia is a country rich in culture and natural resources, which makes it an excellent place to find unique and authentic souvenirs. 

Handmade crafts: Zambia is known for its high-quality handmade crafts, including baskets, pottery, wood carvings, and textiles. These items are often sold in markets and shops throughout the country and make great souvenirs.

Copper crafts: Zambia is one of the largest copper producers in the world, and copper crafts, such as sculptures, bowls, and jewelry, are popular souvenirs.

African masks: Zambia has a rich cultural heritage, and African masks are popular souvenirs for tourists. These masks are often handmade and come in a variety of styles.

Traditional fabrics: Zambia has a vibrant textile industry, and traditional fabrics, such as chitenge, are popular souvenirs. These fabrics are often brightly colored and feature bold patterns.

Wildlife carvings: Zambia is home to a wide range of wildlife, and carvings of animals, such as elephants, lions, and hippos, make great souvenirs.

What To Pack For Zambia

Zambia is a country with a wide range of climates and terrains, so what you should pack will depend on the time of year and the activities you plan to do. 

Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothes, such as cotton or linen, as temperatures can get hot. Long-sleeved shirts and pants will help protect you from the sun and mosquitoes. For safari or wildlife watching, neutral colors such as khaki or beige are best to blend in with the surroundings. In the rainy season (November to March), pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are essential, especially for outdoor activities. If you plan to hike, pack sturdy hiking boots or shoes. Sandals or flip flops are useful for beach and pool activities.

Sun protection: Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat or cap, and sunglasses to protect you from the strong African sun.

Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent in Zambia, especially during the rainy season. Pack insect repellent containing DEET and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to avoid bites.

• Documents: Don’t forget to pack your passport, visas, travel insurance, and any other important travel documents. It’s also a good idea to make copies of these documents and keep them separate from the originals.

Travel Tips For Zambia

The official currency in the country is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) although US dollars are accepted in most tourist establishments. There are plenty of ATMs all over Zambia for your convenience. However, you will find that ATMs are down or run out of money often. If you wish to pay by US dollar or want to exchange money, only carry notes printed in 2013 or later or they may not be accepted.

Visa is the most commonly accepted card in Zambia. Mastercards are accepted in some establishments while most will not accept Amex cards. Many credit card transactions may require a pin for the payment to go through.

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ZAMBIA Travel Guide for 2024: Unlock the Magic

Welcome to our comprehensive Zambia travel guide. From the Victoria Falls to the captivating wildlife of national parks, Zambia offers a diverse tapestry of experiences for every traveler. This Zambia travel guide is your essential companion, providing practical insights and valuable tips to navigate the rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and vibrant traditions that define Zambia.

What to See and Do in Zambia

Whether you’re an experienced traveler out to explore some of the most famous landmarks in Zambia or someone setting foot here for the first time, there’s never a shortage of things to do or sights to see. Here are the best places to visit in Zambia for first-timers .

• Victoria Falls : One of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder. You can admire the falls from different viewpoints, take a boat ride on the Zambezi River, or enjoy some adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, or swimming in the Devil’s Pool , a natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls.

• South Luangwa National Park : Considered one of the best wildlife parks in Africa, South Luangwa National Park is home to a rich diversity of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 species of birds. You can explore the park on game drives, walking safaris, or night safaris, and stay in one of the many lodges or campsites in the park.

• Lake Tanganyika : The world’s longest and second-deepest freshwater lake, Lake Tanganyika is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. You can snorkel or scuba dive in the clear waters, fish for some of the 350 species of fish, or take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow boat . You can also visit the nearby Nsumbu National Park , which has a scenic shoreline and abundant wildlife.

• Livingstone Museum : The oldest and largest museum in Zambia, the Livingstone Museum showcases the country’s history, culture, and art. You can learn about the prehistoric era, the colonial period, the independence struggle, and the contemporary society of Zambia. You can also see exhibits of musical instruments, traditional crafts, and memorabilia of David Livingstone, the explorer who named the Victoria Falls.

• Mukuni Village : A traditional village of the Leya people, Mukuni Village is a cultural attraction that gives you a glimpse into the local way of life. You can take a guided tour of the village, meet the chief and the villagers, see their houses, schools, and markets, and learn about their customs and beliefs. You can also buy some souvenirs from the craft market, where you can find handmade items such as baskets, masks, and jewelry.

Fast Facts About Zambia

• Climate: Zambia’s climate varies from tropical to subtropical. The dry season, from May to October, offers pleasant temperatures and optimal wildlife viewing. The wet season, from November to April, brings lush landscapes but might hinder some activities.
• Local Currency: The Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) is the official currency. Currency exchange facilities are available at airports and banks. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas.
• Power Voltage: Zambia uses a power voltage of 230V with a standard three-pin plug. A universal adapter is recommended to ensure compatibility with your devices.
• Language: English is the official language, making communication easier for travelers. However, learning basic phrases in local languages like Bemba or Nyanja can enhance your experience.
• Religion: Christianity is the predominant religion in Zambia. Respect for local customs and religious practices is appreciated, especially when visiting sacred sites.
• Safety: While Zambia is relatively safe for tourists, it’s essential to stay vigilant and follow local advice. Keep belongings secure and be cautious when exploring unfamiliar areas.
• Cultural Etiquette: Zambians value greetings and politeness. A friendly “hello” or “how are you?” goes a long way. When visiting villages or homes, seek permission and show respect.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary in Zambia, especially in restaurants and for service providers. A tip of around 10% is appreciated as a gesture of gratitude.

When to Visit Zambia: Seasons and Festivals

Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and notable festivals to consider when you plan a trip to Zambia.

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Zambia , especially for wildlife enthusiasts. This is when the animals congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot and photograph. The vegetation is also less dense, improving visibility. The dry season is also the best time to see the famous Victoria Falls , which are at their most impressive from June to August, when the water level is high and the spray is spectacular.

The dry season is also a good time to experience some of Zambia’s cultural festivals, such as:

• The Kuomboka Ceremony : This is a traditional ceremony of the Lozi people, who live in the floodplains of the Zambezi River. It marks the migration of the king and his people from the lowlands to the highlands, as the river rises. The ceremony involves a colorful procession of canoes, drums, and dancers, as well as the king’s royal barge, which is shaped like a crocodile.
• The Ncwala Ceremony : This is a thanksgiving ceremony of the Ngoni people, who live in the eastern part of Zambia. It celebrates the first fruits of the harvest, as well as the unity and strength of the Ngoni nation. The ceremony involves a display of traditional costumes, weapons, dances, and songs, as well as the sacrifice of a bull by the king.

Wet Season (November to April)

The wet season is the least popular time to visit Zambia , as most of the parks and camps are closed due to heavy rains and flooded roads. However, this does not mean that there is nothing to see or do in Zambia during this time. In fact, the wet season has its own charm and benefits, such as:

• The Green Season : This is when the landscape is transformed into a lush and vibrant paradise, with flowers, fruits, and butterflies everywhere. The rain also brings out the best of the birdlife, with many migratory and resident species in full plumage and song.
• The Victoria Falls : While the falls are less impressive in terms of volume and spray during the wet season, you can see the famous lunar rainbow , which is a rare phenomenon that occurs when the moonlight reflects on the mist of the falls.

The wet season is also a good time to experience some of Zambia’s cultural festivals, such as:

• The Umutomboko Ceremony : This is a historical ceremony of the Lunda people, who live in the northern part of Zambia. It commemorates the victory of the Lunda king over a rival tribe, as well as the establishment of the Lunda kingdom.
• The Chisemwa Cha Lunda Ceremony : This is a religious ceremony of the Lunda people, who live in the western part of Zambia. It honors the ancestral spirits, who are believed to protect and bless the Lunda people.

How to Get Around Zambia

Getting around Zambia can be challenging, as the infrastructure and public transport are often unreliable, unsafe, or uncomfortable. Here are the best ways to get around to consider when planning your Zambia trip:

• Car rental : Renting a car is a convenient and flexible way to get around Zambia, especially if you want to visit remote areas or national parks. You should avoid driving at night or in the rainy season, as some roads may become impassable. You can rent a car from major international or local companies, but make sure you have adequate insurance and emergency contacts.
• Minibus : Minibuses are the most common and cheapest form of public transport in Zambia, but they are also the most crowded and uncomfortable. Minibuses are basically vans outfitted with seats, that run on fixed routes and stop anywhere along the way. You can find minibuses at bus stations, markets, or on the roadside, but be prepared to bargain and wait for a long time.
• Taxi : Taxis are a relatively safe and comfortable way to get around Zambia, especially in urban areas. There are two types of taxis in Zambia: metered and unmetered. Metered taxis are usually found at airports, hotels, or shopping malls, and charge by the distance. Unmetered taxis are more common, but they have no fixed rates, so you will need to negotiate the fare before you get in.
• Train : Train travel in Zambia is a scenic and relaxing way to see the country. There are only two main railway lines in Zambia: one that runs from Livingstone to the Copperbelt , and another that runs from Kapiri Mposhi to the Tanzanian border . The trains are old, dilapidated, and often delayed, but they offer a unique experience of rural Zambia.

Where to Stay in Zambia: Accommodation Tips

Zambia is a diverse and beautiful country that offers a range of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for a luxury safari lodge, a cozy guesthouse, a self-catering chalet, or a rustic campsite, you will find something to suit your needs during your Zambia trip.

One of the most popular and eco-friendly types of accommodation in Zambia is the eco-lodge . These are lodges that are designed to minimize their environmental impact and promote sustainable tourism. Some of the best eco-lodges in Zambia are located in the national parks, such as South Luangwa , Lower Zambezi , and Kafue , where you can enjoy spectacular views of the landscapes and animals. Some examples of eco-lodges are Chamilandu Bushcamp , Shawa Luangwa Camp , Old Mondoro Camp , Munga Eco Lodge , Sindabezi Island , and Mwaleshi Camp .

If you are looking for a more urban and modern accommodation option, you can also find hotels, apartments, and resorts in the main cities, such as Lusaka , Livingstone , Ndola , and Kitwe . To book your accommodation in Zambia, you can use online platforms, such as Booking.com , Agoda , SafariNow , and Airbnb .

Zambia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Here are some practical money-saving tips to help you make the most of your budget during your Zambia travel adventure:

• Plan your trip in the low season : The low season in Zambia is from December to April, which coincides with the wet season. This is when you can find lower rates for flights, accommodation, and tours, as well as fewer crowds and more availability.
• Book your accommodation in advance : Zambia has a limited number of accommodation options, especially in the popular safari areas and near the Victoria Falls. Therefore, it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, as prices tend to increase as the demand rises.
• Eat at local eateries and markets : One of the best ways to save money and experience the local culture in Zambia is to eat at local eateries and markets, where you can find delicious and affordable meals.
• Use public transport or share a taxi : You can save money by using public transport or sharing a taxi with other travelers. You should always negotiate the fare before you get in.
• Visit free or cheap attractions : Zambia has many attractions that are free or cheap to visit, such as museums, markets, and natural wonders. For example, you can visit the Lusaka National Museum , which offers insights into Zambia’s history and culture, for only 30 kwacha (about $1.5) per person. You can also visit the Livingstone Museum for only 60 kwacha (about $3) per person.

What Food to Try in Zambia: Traditional Cuisine

Zambia has a rich culinary heritage with many traditional dishes that are worth trying. Here’s a Zambia travel guide to the culinary delights and traditional dishes you must try during your visit:

• Nshima is one of the most common and popular foods in Zambia. It is a thick porridge made from maize flour, which is also the staple food of the country. Nshima is usually eaten with one or two relishes, which can be meat, fish, or vegetable stews.
• Chikanda , also known as African polony , is a vegetarian dish made from wild orchid tubers, peanuts, chili, and baking soda. Chikanda has a meatloaf-like texture and is usually served cold or hot with bread or nshima. Chikanda is considered a delicacy and is often sold in markets or street stalls.
• Zambia also has some unique and exotic foods that may surprise or challenge some visitors, such as caterpillars and flying ants. Caterpillars , or ifinkubala , are a high-protein snack that are usually fried in oil or boiled and then fried with tomatoes and onions. Flying ants , or inswa , are collected after the rains and have their wings removed before being fried in oil. They are eaten as a snack or a side dish with nshima.
• Zambia also has a variety of desserts and snacks that are sweet and satisfying, such as fritters, doughnuts, cakes, and pies. Some of the traditional sweets are vitumbuwa , which are deep-fried balls of rice flour and yeast; munkoyo, which is a fermented drink made from maize and millet; and mabisi , which is a sour milk drink that is often flavored with sugar or honey.

What to Bring from Zambia: Souvenir Ideas

Bringing home a piece of Zambia is a wonderful way to cherish your Zambia travel memories:

• Binga baskets : These are traditional baskets that are woven by the Tonga people, who live near the Zambezi River. They are made from ilala palm leaves, which are dyed with natural colors and patterns. The baskets are used for storing and carrying food, as well as for decoration.
• Zambian emeralds : Zambia is one of the world’s leading producers of emeralds, which are prized for their deep green color and clarity. Zambian emeralds are ethically mined and cut, and they make stunning jewelry pieces, such as rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
• Chitenge fabric : Chitenge is a colorful cotton fabric that is widely used in Zambia for clothing, accessories, and household items. It is printed with various motifs, such as animals, plants, geometric shapes, and symbols, that reflect the Zambian culture and identity.
• Wooden carvings : Zambia has a rich tradition of wood carving, which showcases the skills and creativity of the local artisans. You can find wooden carvings of various subjects, such as animals, people, masks, chess sets, and musical instruments.
• Honey : Zambia is known for its high-quality honey, which is produced by the wild bees that pollinate the diverse flora of the country. Zambian honey is organic, raw, and unfiltered, and it has a rich and distinctive flavor and aroma.

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• Best Time To Visit

Zambia Travel Guide Zambia

• Parks & Reserves
• Weather & Climate
• Popular Routes
• Getting There
• Malaria & Vaccinations

​Best Time To Visit – Zambia

Philip has traveled through Zambia several times and is the author of more than 20 guidebooks to various African destinations.

Philip is the Zambia expert for SafariBookings and author of more than 20 guidebooks to Africa.

Philip is our Zambia expert and author of more than 20 guidebooks to Africa.

You’ll see lots of wildlife in Zambia during the middle and end of the Dry season (May to October). This will fit in nicely with a visit to Victoria Falls, which is at its best from June to August. A Wet season safari (November to April) is much more challenging, as most parks and camps shut down because of heavy rain. The exception is the Mfuwe section of South Luangwa National Park, which has a small circuit of all-weather roads.

May to October – Dry Season – Winter

• Animals are easier to spot
• There’s hardly any rain, and there are fewer mosquitoes
• June through August is the best time to see Victoria Falls
• October gets very hot, especially in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi
• Morning game drives in winter are chilly, so bring warm clothing

Wildlife Photos

November to April – Wet Season – Summer

• The landscape is green
• January and February are good months to see Victoria Falls
• You can see newborn animals
• This is the best time for birding, with migrants present
• The rain mostly falls as short showers in the late afternoon
• It’s low season, which means lower rates
• Most parks and camps close down – but South Luangwa remains open
• Animals are harder to find because they no longer rely on rivers and waterholes to drink
• From October to December, Victoria Falls might just be a trickle on the Zambian side

Best Time To Go by Major Park

For the best wildlife viewing in the main parks (South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi), visit in the dry winter months (July to October). This coincides with the best opportunities for great photos of Victoria Falls – from June to August. Most camps close in the rainy season and washed-out roads make travel difficult. However, the landscape is beautiful and bird watching is superb at this time.

• Kafue National Park Kafue National Park Poor "> Jan J Poor "> Feb F Poor "> Mar M Fair "> Apr A Good "> May M Good "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Poor "> Dec D
• Lower Zambezi NP Lower Zambezi National Park Poor "> Jan J Poor "> Feb F Poor "> Mar M Fair "> Apr A Good "> May M Good "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Poor "> Dec D
• South Luangwa NP South Luangwa National Park Poor "> Jan J Poor "> Feb F Poor "> Mar M Fair "> Apr A Good "> May M Good "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Good "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Poor "> Dec D

Want To Visit Zambia?

184 Zambia Safaris

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Safari Tours to Zambia

10-Day Romantic Zambia Honeymoon Safari

$7,495 to $8,142 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , South Luangwa NP, Victoria Falls, Livingstone (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.8 /5  –  155 Reviews

7-Day Zambia's Big Five Tour to South Luangwa and Kafue

$4,070 to $4,290 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Bush Camp

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , South Luangwa NP, Kafue NP, Busanga Plains (Kafue NP) , Lusaka (End)

Kubwa Five Safaris

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4-Day Affordable South Luangwa Safari

$1,890 to $2,220 pp (USD)

Zambia: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Lusaka (Start) , South Luangwa NP, Lusaka Airport (End)

Discover Africa Safaris

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Best Time To Visit Zambia

An overview of Zambia’s seasons

Zambia country has a sub-tropical climate with pleasant temperatures due to its high altitude. The temperatures average around 68°F in the highlands and around 75°F in the valleys. The cool, dry season, from May to August, is considered the best time to visit Zambia.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

• The water flow over the Victoria Falls is high around this time – head here to marvel at the thundering waterfall with spray that can be seen from miles away!
• The wet or green season is an excellent time for birdwatching, so depending on which parks are open during this time, you could head for a spot of birdwatching
• If you are planning to visit Victoria Falls around this time, spend time in the charming city of Livingstone
• View the magnificent Victoria Falls on a helicopter ride!
• This is the start of the fishing season in Zambia, so why not try your hand at catching some fish?
• Head to the remote Luambe National Park, which is rich in biodiversity
• This is the ideal time to visit Bangweulu to try and spot the rare shoebill stork
• Explore the wilderness that is South Luangwa National Park on a walking safaris
• Relax with a river cruise on the Zambezi followed by a luxurious stay on a private island on the river
• Explore the extensive landscapes, and encounter wildlife during your safari in Kafue National Park
• With the flow of the Zambezi river decreasing, August is a good month to go white-water rafting on the Zambezi!
• Embark on a walking safari in the remote North Luangwa
• Marvel at the colorful southern-carmine bee-eaters that swarm Luangwa River at this time
• Experience exciting wildlife safaris in the Lower Zambezi National Park
• Hike or go horseback riding in Shiwa Ngandu, a beautiful lake surrounded by a hilly countryside
• Head to nearby Chusa Falls for rafting and birdwatching
• December is excellent for birdwatching as the migratory birds return around this time!

Best time to visit Zambia by season

The cool, dry season, from May to August, is considered to be the best travel time for Zambia when temperatures are around 73°F. At night it gets relatively fresh, falling to about 42°F. The rivers and waterholes are filled by the rainy season and attract numerous wild animals. Particularly great animal observations are possible in June and August. Many roads to remote regions are only passable during the cool dry season. During the hot dry season, especially from October, the temperatures and also the humidity increase noticeably.

In mid-November, the rainy season begins, which is also called the Emerald Season or Green Season. During these hot, humid months, the country shines in green. Many remote areas can no longer be visited and some camps close. Nevertheless, this season has its own charm – and is wonderfully suited for bird watching.

The climate in Zambia is determined by three seasons.

Cool drying time:  May – August

Hot dry season:  September – November

Rainy season:  December – April (South) / October – April (North)

What to Pack for Zambia

The season you travel to Zambia will determine what you need to pack. Based on the time you choose, here is a list of things you should ideally carry: Rain gear including waterproof jacket and shoes, mosquito repellent especially during the rainy season, light clothes for day time and a jacket for cooler evenings, layers of clothing including warm jacket / fleece or jumper, gloves, socks and a scarf, light cotton or linen clothing with natural colors, light shoes and sandals, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimsuit, light jumper for cooler evenings, long sleeved shirts and long trousers are useful for protection from the sun during the day and mosquitoes at night.

Popular Trips to Zambia

Tanzania, Botswana & Zambia: From Kilimanjaro to the Falls

This is the quintessential African safari vacation. The 15-day tour takes you across some of the continent’s best game reserves in Botswana, Tanzania and Zambia. Buckle up as you set out on the safari journey of your dreams, with stops at Arusha, Ngorongoro Plains, Northern Serengeti, Chobe National Park, Okavango Delta and more. Bask in…

Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia: Safari and Waterfalls

Few things are as awe-inspiring as gazing at the majestic Victoria Falls or witnessing nocturnal life in the Masai Mara. You can experience all that and more on this 12-day tour of Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia. From natural wonders to diverse wildlife and rich culture, this all-encompassing vacation is sure to leave you spellbound. Watch…

Botswana: Spectacular Water Worlds

This Zambia and Botswana trip takes you to the most spectacular water worlds in Africa. Start with Victoria Falls, which plummet for over a kilometer. Admire the falls from multiple viewpoints and then take a walking or biking tour to a nearby village. Continue on to Chobe National Park, where you can go on boat…

Zambia: Victoria Falls and Safari Highlights

Discover an untamed wilderness in Africa’a adventure capital! Enjoy exhilarating adventure sports in Victoria Falls and a variety of aquatic and overland activities amid the floodplains, grasslands and forests of Lower Zambezi National Park. The highlight of your trip is your scintillating walking safaris in South Luangwa – armed with fantastic guides and scouts, experience the…

Best Places To Visit

Kafue National Park is a magical wilderness offering excellent game viewing, bird watching and fishing opportunities.

Kafue National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park lies across the Zambezi River from the historically better known Mana Pools in Zimbabwe.

Lower Zambezi

Experience wild walks! South Luangwa National Park is tropical, wild, beautiful and one of the most stunning national parks in Africa.

South Luangwa

Embrace the remoteness! North Luangwa is a wonderful option for outdoorsy guests who really appreciate the genuine sense of intimacy of the bush experience.

North Luangwa

Smoke that thunders! That is what the Kolobo tribe who lived by the Victoria Falls two centuries ago once called this seventh wonder of the world.

Victoria Falls

Lusaka is one of the fastest-growing cities in central Africa, with a sprawling downtown area, high-walled suburbs, busy shanty towns, bustling markets and large industrial areas, bringing together people of many nationalities and making it a bustling center for economic, political and cultural activities.

Things To Do

From the stunning Victoria Falls to scintillating wildlife safaris and incredible river cruises – Zambia is waiting to be discovered! Follow to this link for an overview on the top ten attractions, activities and highlights in Zambia.

Travel Guide

Zambia is a relatively non-commercial safari destination, where you can experience intimate little camps in beautiful and remote reserves. Before you travel, discover all essential details, from visas and currency to health information.

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Zambia: Travel Tips And Insights

• Last updated Jul 08, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Zambia is a peaceful and safe destination for travellers, known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife. It is slightly larger than Texas and has a diverse range of natural wonders, from rivers and lakes to waterfalls and hot springs. The country is home to the Big Five and many other majestic animals, making it an increasingly popular safari destination. Here are some essential things to know before travelling to Zambia:

- The country has distinct seasons, with the dry season from May to November being prime for wildlife viewing.

- The dress code in Zambia is conservative, so pack modest clothing, including long skirts or pants, and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for safaris.

- The currency is the Zambian Kwacha, but US Dollars are widely accepted, and credit cards are also used, although high commissions are sometimes charged.

- English is one of the official languages, but there are also 73 local languages spoken throughout the country.

- Transport can be challenging due to the road networks and conditions, and distances between destinations can be lengthy.

- It is recommended to carry essential items such as toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and small change when exploring the country.

What You'll Learn

Visa and passport requirements.

• What to pack?

Getting around Zambia

• When to visit?

Local customs and culture

To enter Zambia, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after your arrival and has at least two or three blank pages for entry stamping and visa requirements. It is recommended that you have three or four blank pages if you are travelling through more than one country. You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Zambia has different visa requirements for different nationalities. Nationals of some countries do not require a visa to enter Zambia, while others can obtain a visa on arrival or prior to travel (e-Visa). It is important to check with the Zambian Department of Immigration or a travel agent for the specific requirements for your nationality.

If you are obtaining a visa on arrival, you must have full information about your host and provide a physical address for your stay. You must also have at least six months' validity on your passport from the date of entry. Those arriving by air must have valid return air tickets, while those arriving by land or water must have enough funds for their stay and departure from Zambia.

The different types of visas available include:

• Single Entry Visa: Allows entry to Zambia only once during the validity of the visa. The fee is US $25.
• Double Entry Visa: Allows entry to Zambia twice during the validity of the visa. The fee is US $40.
• Multiple Entry Visa: Allows entry to Zambia multiple times during the validity of the visa. The fee is US $75. Multiple Entry Visas are only issued by Headquarters through the e-visa facility.
• Transit Visa: Valid for a maximum of seven days and costs $25.
• Day Tripper Visa: Issued at a port of entry to tourists visiting Zambia for less than 24 hours or those wishing to visit a neighbouring country and re-enter within 24 hours. The fee is $10.

The KAZA UNIVISA, valid for unlimited travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe and for day trips to Botswana, costs $50 and is valid for 30 days. It can be obtained online in advance or on arrival at certain airports and land borders.

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What to pack

When packing for Zambia, it's important to keep in mind the activities you plan to do, the weather, and the conservative dress code of the country. Here's a list of what to pack for your trip:

• Safari attire: Light-coloured, long-sleeve shirts and pants made from lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen are ideal. These colours and fabrics will help keep you cool and protect you from the sun.
• Walking shoes: Zambia is known for its walking safaris, so a pair of comfortable shoes is essential.
• Sun protection: A good hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are necessary to protect yourself from the strong sun.
• Raincoat: If you're visiting during the rainy season (November to April), pack a raincoat as the downpours can be heavy.
• Conservative clothing: For women, pack knee-length or longer skirts to wear in the towns. Both men and women should avoid clothing that exposes the thighs, as this is a sexualised body part in Zambian culture.
• Layers: It can get chilly in the early mornings and evenings, so bring a fleece or jacket.
• Camera: Bring your own camera to capture the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
• Memory cards and batteries: These items are not readily available in Southern Africa, so be sure to bring enough to last your trip.
• Toiletries: Hand sanitiser, toilet paper, and other personal care items are essential.
• Reusable bag: Many supermarkets in Zambia charge for plastic bags, so bring your own reusable bag.
• Money: The local currency is the Zambian Kwacha, but US dollars are widely accepted. However, be aware that high commissions are sometimes charged around tourist areas like Victoria Falls. Credit cards may also be subject to high fees, and some remote lodges may have difficulty processing card payments.
• Travel documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your departure date and that you have the necessary visas.
• First aid kit: Include items such as a thermometer, a malaria test kit, and oral rehydration solution packets.

Exploring the Acceptability of Curative Tests for Travel Purposes

Zambia has an extensive network of airports and airstrips, with several airlines flying to Lusaka, Ndola, Mfuwe, and Livingstone. Many of these airports have undergone upgrades and now offer credit card facilities, Wi-Fi, business lounges, restaurants, and hotels.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of minibus taxis available, although the standards of cleanliness and safety may vary. These are the cheapest and most widely used form of public transport in Zambia. Regular cabs are also available in bigger cities, but they may not be metered, so be sure to negotiate the rate upfront. Have small denominations of US dollars or kwacha on hand, as change may not always be available.

For longer distances, you can take a long-range bus from Lusaka to other large towns. There are also inter-country bus services to Harare in Zimbabwe and Johannesburg in South Africa. However, travel by bus can be slow, and you should check the departure schedules in advance. Routes from Lusaka include Monze, Choma, Livingstone, Mongu, and Sesheke, with some buses going as far as the Botswana and Namibia borders.

If you prefer more flexibility, you can opt for a self-drive road trip through Zambia. However, keep in mind that the road conditions can be challenging. It's recommended to carry essential tools and spares, including at least two spare wheels and tubes due to the condition of the roads. Other useful items include spare jerry cans of fuel and water, a tow rope, a compressor, a winch, and a spotlight. Villages along the main routes often offer tyre-mending services at reasonable fees. Driving at night is not advised due to poor road markings, animals on the road, pedestrians, and unpredictable drivers.

When it comes to road rules, remember that in Zambia, they drive on the left side of the road. The general speed limit on national highways is 100 km/h, and in urban areas, it's typically 65 km/h. To drive in Zambia, you'll need an international driving permit unless you're a citizen of a SADC state (Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe).

Understanding the Unpleasant Sensations of Travel Sickness

When to visit.

The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. These months offer a good opportunity for wildlife viewing and pleasant daytime temperatures, although September and October can get extremely hot.

From May to July, you can expect dry and cool weather, with no rainfall. This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the intense heat of the later dry season.

August to October is the hot dry season. The fields are burned to prepare for the planting season, adding to the heat. October is especially hot, but the dry season is still a good time for wildlife viewing. The dry season is also a good time to visit Victoria Falls, which is best viewed from June to August.

The rainy season, from December to April, is known as the Green Season due to the lush, thick, and verdant landscape. This season can make game viewing more challenging as the vegetation is dense, and many animals move away from dry-season water sources. However, it is a great time for birdwatching, as thousands of migratory species take flight. The rainy season offers fantastic value for money, and camps are quiet, so you'll have plenty of space to yourself.

November is a transitional month, with unpredictable weather as the summer rains begin. It's a good time to visit for lower rates on accommodation, and you may be able to witness the second-largest wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain National Park, with up to 40,000 blue wildebeest on the move.

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Zambia is a culturally diverse country, with over 70 indigenous tribal groups, each with its own language, culture, and traditions. While urbanisation has led to the dilution of tribal customs in cities, these traditions remain prevalent in rural areas. Here are some local customs and cultural norms to be aware of when travelling to Zambia:

Greetings are of utmost importance in Zambian culture. Whether in a rural or urban area, it is customary to greet people before starting a conversation. When passing someone in a rural area, be sure to acknowledge them with a greeting. In towns, it is still important to say hello and ask how the person is before getting down to business. When greeting a woman, men should withhold their hands until the woman offers hers.

Zambians consider thighs to be sexualised body parts, so both men and women should wear long skirts or pants when in public.

Gifts are commonly given as a sign of honour, friendship, or appreciation. If offered a gift, it is considered rude to refuse it. Accept gifts with both hands while saying thank you.

Dining Etiquette

In Zambia, it is customary to eat and shake hands with your right hand only.

Zambia is predominantly a Christian nation, with most people following either Protestant or Roman Catholic denominations. There are also small groups of Muslims and Hindus, while some continue to follow local native tribal beliefs. Religious influences may impact your travel experience, particularly when it comes to transport and business operations on Sundays.

Funerary Customs

In Zambian villages, the death of a loved one is a matter of communal importance. All members of the village contribute money, time, and effort towards the burial of the deceased. Grief is expressed through wailing, singing, and dancing, making it a very emotional ceremony. During the mourning period, men stay outside the house, while women remain inside. After sharing memories of the deceased, the village walks to the burial site to bid their final farewells.

Dance and Music

Dance and music, particularly the use of drums, are integral aspects of Zambian culture. Each tribal group has its own unique dance forms, although the makishi dance is common among all tribes. Dance is typically performed during initiation ceremonies and celebrations.

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Frequently asked questions.

The dry season, which is prime for wildlife viewing, generally lasts from May to November. The rainy season runs from December to April, and some lodges close during this time.

Pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in natural fabrics such as cotton or linen to keep you cool. You'll also want a fleece or jacket for the evenings and early mornings. Zambia is known for its walking safaris, so be sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat or cap to protect you from the sun. If you're visiting during the rainy season, don't forget to pack a raincoat.

The unit of currency is the Zambian Kwacha, although US Dollars are widely accepted at lodges and hotels throughout the country.

Cultures vary greatly between tribes in Zambia, but here are a few general tips:

- Traditionally, greetings are very important. When you pass someone in a rural area, acknowledge each other with a greeting.

- Both men and women should wear long skirts or pants as thighs are sexualized.

- Zambia is a Christian nation, so transport can be trickier on Sundays and some businesses may be closed.

- Eat and shake hands with your right hand only.

- Tipping is not expected but is appreciated.

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Desperate Zimbabweans cross Zambia border for cheaper healthcare, medicines

With essential drugs and specialised care expensive or unavailable, poor Zimbabweans opt to travel long distances to seek treatment.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – At 5pm at the Victoria Falls border post, Margaret Tshuma – who has a 24-hour day pass to be in Zambia – is in a rush to return home to Zimbabwe before dusk.

This is not the first time Tshuma, 53, has travelled from her rural home in Diki village, 120km (75 miles) away, to cross into Zambia for the day. It has become a routine trip she makes monthly to buy medication for her husband who has scleritis – an inflammatory condition that affects the outer covering of the eye.

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The prescribed medication is barely available on the shelves of pharmacies in Hwange district, where she lives. Of what is there, the high cost makes it inaccessible to many, she said.

“The same medication is expensive back home. If you add transport and medication costs altogether, it is still cheaper to come to Zambia. Also most times, some of this medication is not readily available which risks the patients’ lives,” said Tshuma.

Buying the medicines in Zimbabwe costs Tshuma about $85 a month, whereas just across the border in Livingstone she pays 320 kwacha ($13). Even with travel, it works in her favour, as a two-way trip from Hwange to Livingstone costs $14.

Zimbabwe’s economy has been hit hard by decades of economic crises and soaring inflation. Many basics are not as easily available or affordable, and Zimbabweans themselves have lost confidence in the local currency.

At the border, Tshuma follows a small queue, before officials check her luggage and papers without much trouble and stamp her 24-hour pass – a process that takes less than 10 minutes.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Mike Muleya, a commuter bus operator who ferries passengers back and forth to the border area, said a significant number of people make the daily trip from Hwange – a community of some 21,300 people – to buy medicines or visit hospitals in Zambia.

“My first early morning trip from Hwange, I carry at least six to nine passengers going to Victoria Falls to cross to Livingstone. We chat along the way and I find that five to seven are going for medical-related trips,” he said.

“In the evening, on my last trip, I literally park near the border as they will be calling me to take them back to Hwange. In between, I will be carrying one or two, so it’s a big number [making the daily trip], given that it’s not me alone in the transport business.”

The cost analysis

According to a 2023 report by the local advocacy group Community Working Group on Health, most Zimbabweans do not have access to quality and affordable healthcare. The group has called on the government to prioritise primary healthcare to achieve universal health coverage.

Poor Zimbabweans who depend on state healthcare struggle significantly more to obtain treatment than wealthier citizens, who can turn to more expensive private services. In addition to difficulties in obtaining care, many complain of long queues at public hospitals – often requiring four to seven hours of waiting.

In Matetsi Ward 1 in Hwange Rural, 20km (12 miles) from Victoria Falls, Mercy Khumalo recounted the ordeal of taking her aunt to Zambia for treatment.

It was not an easy situation for the family, Khumalo said. Using their meagre savings and the money from selling a cow, they were finally able to get enough to afford to see a specialist at a private hospital in Zimbabwe. But after doing a cost analysis, they chose to go to Zambia instead.

“We had consulted locally and got some quotations from various specialists. Aunt was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Our neighbour told us that treatment was affordable and a pure public service in Zambia. We saw that, with the money we had, it will have been spent within a month at a private doctor locally; yet, in Zambia, we will save a lot as we monitor the situation,” she explained.

“Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Zambia and are generally free as long as you have your passport and health records in order,” Natasha Chola Mukuka, a public health practitioner and student of medicine at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Lusaka, Zambia, told Al Jazeera.

Although specialists and surgery cases do attract a cost, Zimbabwean patients told Al Jazeera they find it more affordable than at home.

5 Miles Hospital still miles away

Matabeleland North province, home to Victoria Falls and Hwange, is historically marginalised despite it being a tourism hub that also houses the largest colliery and the biggest national parks. Locals bemoan the lack of tangible infrastructural development, including health facilities.

The construction of the 5 Miles Hospital – named for being 5 miles (8km) from Hwange Town Central Business District – gave hope to residents and villagers. However, when it was nearly complete in 2018, construction stopped.

“The government started to build some hospitals to demystify that the region is marginalised but the structures have remained white elephants for decades,” said Fidelis Chima, the coordinator of the Greater Whange Residents Trust.

“There is nothing to indicate that the hospital will open soon. We have waited for the longest time. People in Hwange depend on Hwange Colliery Company Hospital, but it’s a private facility and very expensive. The government wanted 5 Miles Hospital to be a district hospital, covering both Hwange and Victoria Falls,” added Chima.

Matabeleland North has a record of poorly equipped hospitals. Existing facilities also lack essential drugs and sufficient trained personnel, locals say.

In Hwange district, five hospitals provide services to a population of about 125,800.

But according to Hwange Rural District Ward 12 Councillor Jowani Chuma, four wards are serviced by one hospital, St Marys – a missionary facility run jointly by the government and the Catholic church where patients receive a combination of free and paid-for services.

Each ward, or subdivision of a district, generally has between 2,000 and 7,000 people. Chuma deems it fortunate that some parts of the district have St Marys, as most wards have no such facility.

“St Mary’s is better because most of the rural clinics are manned by hybrid personnel, with one or two government registered nurses while the rest are nurse aides or village health workers. In the absence of the senior sister, one is in the care of the inexperienced personnel,” said Chuma.

The electoral promise

During campaigning for the 2023 elections, the governing ZANU-PF party said Lupane Provincial Hospital in Matabeleland North – a large 250-bed facility – was set to become the biggest in the country upon its completion and ease pressure on referral hospitals in the southern region.

“The hospital will be the largest in all provinces in the country,” said President Emerson Mnangagwa while addressing party supporters at a rally in Binga.

Binga villagers, however, who live in the Zambezi Valley, cross to Zambia every day using canoe boats in search of medication and other basics. Unlike in Victoria Falls, Binga and Zambia are separated by the Zambezi River, and in the absence of a bridge, boats become a mode of transport.

The few functional hospitals from Lupane to Victoria Falls in Matabeleland North are either missionary or private, and both come at a cost for patients who use them.

Despite the government allocating $47 million for construction of the Lupane hospital in 2023 – and the government promising that the facility would be complete by the end of last year – most patients in the province are still referred to the Catholic-run St Luke’s for health services, while the critically-ill are referred to Bulawayo.

To date, people still travel long distances to seek basic treatment. Meanwhile, Matabeleland North, home to some 827,600 people, remains the only province in the country without a provincial hospital.

Averting smuggling

With the influx of people across the Zambia-Zimbabwe border every day, immigration authorities are tightening the requirements for people bringing medication into Zimbabwe.

They now require a prescription from a doctor that is stamped by a medical facility.

Previously, people would cross over to buy drugs without a prescription, a situation authorities say was creating a fertile ground for smuggling and unregulated medical drug businesses within Victoria Falls and Hwange.

“The border is busy on a normal day, mostly its people crossing for same day services … some are tourists,” said a security official at the border who requested anonymity as he is not allowed to speak to the press.

“But the bulk are vendors from Zambia and individuals from Zimbabwe going shopping which includes medical drugs. It’s not a lot, but for drugs, we now require a stamped prescription and we check the purchased drugs to reduce smuggling,” he told Al Jazeera.

The immigration officer in charge of the border was not readily available when asked for comment.

As Margaret Tshuma makes her way from the border to her home in Diki village, she knows she will be back in a few weeks. But she also looks forward to the day that Hwange has a district hospital and the Lupane Provincial Hospital is complete.

“This will save lives as it will cut distances to Bulawayo referral hospitals,” she said, adding that adequate facilities and steady affordable supplies of medicine nearer to home “will be welcome”.

“Otherwise,” she cautioned, “people will still trace medical facilities and medicine in Zambia if there are no prescribed drugs on the shelves.”

A Snob’s Guide to Nantucket With Kids

From the best beaches, ice cream shops, and summer activities, here's everything you need to know for a perfect trip to the island of Nantucket with kids.

Fortunately, Nantucket has many things to offer families, including beautiful sand beaches, miles of bikeable roads and paths, and loads of programs and activities. Below, some of T&C 's favorites for a summer or early fall visit.

First, Decide Where to Stay

There are many vacation houses for rent on Nantucket but for those who want a classic family getaway—as in ice cream on the porch, puzzle on the dining room table, dog underfoot— and hotel amenities such as room and concierge services and daily cleanings, White Elephant Nantucket offers some best-of-both worlds options. The century-old hotel, which just completed a major renovation, has one-to-three bedroom garden cottages that are located right next to resorts main building. The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin , located right on the water on Old South Wharf, offer easy access downtown and some of these accommodations accept pets.

Located a few blocks up the hill from Nantucket harbor, Faraway Nantucket is a collection of adjacent houses that have been converted into a charming hotel. Families of up to four can rent the Quad Bunk , an elegant room with two sets of built in bunk beds, each with its own a privacy curtain. There’s an adjoining King Room that can be rented as well if your party is larger.

Then, Plan Out Activities

It would be shame to visit an island with such a rich nautical history without getting out on the water: For those with young children, book a spot on Critter Cruise , which offers hour-long trips around Nantucket Harbor during which kids can help haul lobster traps, dangle fishing poles over the side, and examine local sea life. For those with an older crew, charter the Endeavor , a 31-foot single-mast, gaff-rigged sailboat that can be booked for 1.5- or 3-hour sails. For an old-school tall-ship experience, book a day cruise on the Lynx .

Nantucket's famous Whaling Museum is worth a visit just to see the enormous skeleton of a right whale hanging from its ceiling. It also has all manner of tools, boats, and other items on display that will interest even the most museum-averse child. The Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum , which chronicles some of the island’s nautical disasters, is also worth a stop as is the Hinchman House Natural Science Museum , which has a live animal room and interactive displays and exhibits about the plants, animals, and birds that live on Nantucket.

Nantucket has miles of bikeable roads and paths. Rent bikes at Young's Bicycle Shop on Broad Street, which was founded in the 1930s and is a fourth generation family owned business. If you want help planning a perfect adventure, book a tour with Nantucket Bike Tours .

If your children are too young for a big ride, make your way over to the the eastern side of the island and combine a trip to Sconset Beach or Sconset Bluffs with a stop at Codfish Park Playground a delightful place for small children to stretch their legs and arms.

Pick Your Beaches

Children’s Beach , right on Nantucket Harbor, has lifeguards, concession stands, a playground, and hosts weekly shows by Lizza Obremski , a local puppeteer. In other words, ideal for families with young kids. A short walk away is Brant Point Lighthouse where you can watch boats entering and leaving the harbor.

Farther afield, Madaket Beach , located on the western side of the island, is an excellent spot to body surf, take long walks, and watch the sunset. A trip to Great Point Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge , on the other side of the island, is a bit more involved (you need a permit if you want to drive on the beach) but is worth the effort to see the seals that frequently line the shore and all sorts of birds and other wildlife.

Mealtime Gameplan

Nantucket is awash with buzzy, crowded restaurants. Fortunately for travelers with small children, low-key harbor- and beachside options also abound. In Madaket, eat at, or order take out from, Millie’s which has delicious sandwiches and quesadillas. Sandbar Jetties Beach offers indoor and outdoor seating at one of the island’s most popular beaches. Surfside Taco Stand , a new spot on Broad Street, is a great place to pick up lunch for a picnic. For a more formal family dinner, Brant Point Grill at the White Elephant is elegant resort dining room but also lots of fun. Last but not least is ice cream. Juice Bar always has a long line snaking down the block but it moves quickly and the homemade waffle cones are worth the wait. Some people prefer Jack and Charlie’s or Nantucket Pharmacy which serves ice cream from Island Kitchen.

Line Up Some Help

Concierge service Little ACK Book can help with pre-trip planning, including helping choose rental houses or hotels best suited to your needs. It can also stock fridges with food and drinks before you arrive, make restaurant reservations, arrange tours and shopping trips. Best of all, it can organize unique Nantucket experiences, including clambake on the beach or drives out out to Great Point for a picnic lunch (both require permits).

Nannytucket provides short term babysitting services, dog walking, and eldercare for families vacationing on the island.

Norman Vanamee is the articles director of Town & Country.

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How to Plan a Once-in-a-lifetime Trip to the Maldives — Overwater Villas, Turquoise Waters, and Postcard-perfect Islands Included

Here's what you need to know before planning your Maldives vacation, including the best places to stay, things to do, and more.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation/Visit Maldives

Mention a trip to the Maldives, and you’re immediately met with wistful sighs. There’s a reason this long string of low-lying islands in the Indian Ocean is at the top of many travelers' lists. Perhaps it's the sugary-white sands, the thatched-roof overwater bungalows, the swaying palm trees, or the waters so electric blue that its shade deserves a new classification.

“The colors just pop in the Maldives. Absolutely no filter is required!” says Sarah Harvey, Maldives expert and travel journalist. “The sea is so intensely turquoise that it almost glows, and the water is clearer than anywhere I’ve yet seen in the Caribbean. I once lost half an hour standing waist-deep in a lagoon just marveling at the hundreds of tiny rainbows refracted by the sun across the sandy sea floor.”

It's no wonder it was also crowned the favorite island destination in Asia in Travel + Leisure 's 2024 World's Best Awards . Whatever these islands’ magic touch is, it has loved-up honeymooners and wealthy families flocking to its 174 private island resorts. Made up of 1,192 tiny islands spread throughout 26 atolls, only around 200 of its islands are “local islands,” and 174 are resort islands, with more opening up every year.

“It's a truly exceptional escape from the every day, full of diversity and exploration that is more surprising than many give credit for,” says Venetia Cox, travel advisor at Cazenove+Loyd . “It's not just a passive destination for relaxation. It has incredible marine biodiversity, which can be experienced via snorkeling or diving, and has some of the best beaches in the world.”

Read on to start planning your dream trip to the Maldives.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Arrive early in the morning to minimize time for your resort transfer and get to the island as quickly as possible.
• Spend time snorkeling your resort’s house reef or book a diving excursion.
• Book a stay at Soneva Fushi for an ultra-relaxing, over-the-top resort experience unlike any other.
• Biking around your island resort is the best — and most fun — way to cross the island.
• Visit during the low season from May to November to see the manta rays feeding in the famous Hanifaru Bay.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resorts

Soneva Fushi

A castaway island dream, this sustainable luxury resort is known as one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Maldives. It's been wowing guests for almost 30 years with the country’s largest kids club and rooms dedicated to ice cream, chocolates, and meat and cheese — all complimentary. “Every time I go to Soneva Fushi , I get giddy; the island makes me feel like a big kid! The water villas have water slides. You can skip between restaurants via a wooden walkway in the jungle canopy,” says Harvey. “There’s so much fun baked into this resort’s DNA.”

Joali Maldives

It’s all about the glitz and glam at this Raa Atoll resort. Each of Joali’s 73 villas is a design dream dotted with touches like rose gold finishings, emerald marble showers, and pops of coral pink. “The food here is also amazing, and the Japanese restaurant is outstanding,” says Cox.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

This resort was voted the best resort in Asia in 2022 by T+L readers and one of our readers' 100 favorite hotels in the world for 2024 . One of the largest human-made islands in the country, Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi has 119 palatial villas and a can’t-miss spa. Its 11 dining options, including an Australian-style grill helmed by a Michelin-starred chef, are also a major draw.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

The Four Seasons at Landaa Giravaaru’s sprawling 103 villas offer a more sophisticated and sleek take on an island paradise. It’s “Manta on Call” phones for when manta rays appear nearby and stellar service are a few highlights. “One of the best things about it is the ‘psychic butlers’ who seem to know exactly what you want before you do,” says Harvey.

Gili Lankanfushi

A short boat ride from the airport takes you to this thatched-roof paradise which Cox calls, “the original Robinson Crusoe escape” — but five-star. Gili Lankanfushi’s 45 open-air overwater villas are rustic and eco-friendly, enforcing a no-plastic policy and a “no news, no shoes ethos.” Reserve one of its standalone Crusoe Residences for an incredibly private stay — they’re only reachable by boat.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Architecture lovers will swoon over the St. Regis’ 77 artfully designed villas made to look like manta rays and Maldivian fishing huts. A points-friendly hotel, it’s a favorite for American travelers in search of a far-flung tropical escape. While the villas are hard to leave, don’t miss out on its crustacean-shaped spa, home to one of the Maldives’ largest hydrotherapy pools.

Velaa Private Island Maldives

With a reputation as one of the country’s most exclusive and expensive resorts, anything is possible at Velaa. From Wagyu teppanyaki dinners in its rooftop restaurant to nine holes at one of the country’s only golf courses to a wellness retreat at its new Wellbeing Village; there are endless options at this ultra-luxury, expertly crafted 47-villa island getaway.

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation/Visit Maldives

Snorkel with marine life.

Ocean enthusiasts say the best part of the Maldives exists underwater. So snorkel or dive amongst a kaleidoscope of colors and marine life, including turtles, sharks, fish, manta rays, and whale shakes. “Diving and snorkeling with whale sharks is one of the most incredible things you can do in the Maldives,” says Harvey.

Treat yourself at the spa.

Many island resorts in the Maldives have a dedicated spa. Some are overwater with glass bottoms, and some are in the jungle canopy, but they’re all worth booking a treatment. Depending on the spa, guests can find just about any therapy, from cryotherapy to 24k gold facials.

Bike around the island.

The majority of the resorts listed above give guests bikes for personal use during their stay. Spend mornings biking to the breakfast buffet and evenings riding along the jetty, spotting eagle rays and sharks below. The mix of freedom and fun is one of the most unique parts of a Maldivian resort stay.

Get out on the ocean.

Life and fun in the Maldives revolve around the water. Resorts offer a seemingly never-ending laundry list of water activities, including surfing, fishing, dolphin cruises, paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, sea bobs, flyboarding, catamarans, and even submersibles. The ocean is your oyster.

Visit a local island.

While 99 percent of visitors come for total rest and relaxation on the private islands, spend an afternoon on a local one instead. Most resorts offer tours and experiences to visit the “real Maldives.” “You might get befriended, you might be lucky enough to see women playing a game of bashi on the sports field, you might even get invited into someone’s home for a cup of tea,” says Harvey.

Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure

While there’s no wrong time to visit the Maldives, the country’s peak season is from November to April, a time synonymous with blue skies and scorching sun. However, due to the effects of climate change, the seasons are becoming more and more uncertain. “Every Maldivian I’ve spoken to about the weather says the timing of monsoon season has been harder to predict in the past couple of decades,” says Harvey. A visit during the off-season from May to October puts you squarely in the monsoon season, but that doesn’t mean it will be a definite downpour. Planning your trip during this time will also save you a few bucks due to more affordable “low season” villa rates. If you base yourself at a resort in or around the Baa Atoll during this time, you can snorkel with hundreds of massive manta rays feeding at the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hanifaru Bay.

Travelers arrive in the Maldives via Velana International Airport, which is set to unveil an expansion at the end of the year. Upon entering the arrivals terminal, guests will see dozens and dozens of resort representatives holding a plaque with the resort name. Once you’ve found yours, they’ll escort you to one of three places: the domestic terminal for a plane transfer, a speedboat for a transfer directly to your resort, or the new seaplane terminal for a seaplane transfer. Don’t worry; it may sound overwhelming, but a resort rep will take care of everything for you; all you have to do is follow them.

Transport to the resorts is typically arranged through your resort. Once you’ve arrived at your private island resort, there’s not far to go. Guests typically use the bicycles provided to get from one place to the other, call their butler for a buggy ride, or walk the island barefoot.

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The 13 best backpacks for comfortable all-day wear

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If you've ever noticed that one shoulder aches more than the other, it's likely because you've been carrying too much in your tote. Switching to a backpack might feel like a style compromise, but in this guide, you'll find sleek designs with a more sophisticated look than the ones you remember from grade school. The best backpacks evenly distribute the weight of your everyday carry with two straps, all while leaving your hands free for smooth commuting.

Our top pick is the Patagonia Refugio , which is durable enough for your next outdoor adventure and spacious enough for long-haul travel. And if you're looking for a backpack to gift to the student in your life, The North Face Jester Backpack is a trendy choice with a suspension system certified by the American Chiropractic Association. Our top choice for commuters, Dagne Dover's Dakota Neoprene Backpack , is a bit of a splurge that's well worth it thanks to its durable neoprene fabric and comfortable straps.

Our top picks for the best backpacks

Best overall: Patagonia Refugio - See at Patagonia The Patagonia Refugio Daypack is highly durable and has special features to help balance heavy cargo and ease shoulder pain on long travel days.

Best for commuters: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack - See at Dagne Dover The Dagne Dover Neoprene Backpack is water-resistant and hand-washable, perfect for when you're on the go.

Best for college students: The North Face Jester Backpack - See at North Face This backpack from North Face can hold everything you need for a day on campus with its large laptop compartment and water bottle holders.

Best for work-to-gym: Caraa Stratus Backpack - See at Caraa The Caraa Stratus Backpack has vents on the bottom to keep your gym clothes ventilated and is made of super lightweight nylon.

Best customizable backpack: Fjallraven Kanken Backpack - See at Nordstrom This popular backpack from Fjallraven comes in over 50 colors and multiple sizes, so you can customize it to your needs and aesthetic.

Best beach backpack: The Carhartt Medium Pack - See at Amazon The Carhartt Medium Pack comes with a three-can cooler and ample storage for any outdoor adventure.

Best overall: Patagonia Refugio Daypack

The Patagonia Refugio Daypack is one of the best backpacks for both outdoor adventures and daily commuting because it's noticably lightweight and comfortable to carry. 

The shell is made from 100% recycled polyester, which proved to be durable and water-resistant. The bag itself won't weigh you down when it's fully packed, and it has a breathable padding in the back. The interior has a removable 15-inch laptop sleeve, and ample storage space with extra organizational compartments. There's even a side strap to keep your water bottle secure.

With 26 liters of space, there's plenty of room for all of your belongings, but if you need to really pack things in tightly, the pliable material makes it easy. You can feel good about investing in a Patagonia product, as they're one of our most consistent favorites among the top B Corp retail companies . 

Best for commuters: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

The Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack is one of the best backpacks among members of the Insider Reviews team. It's a wonderful carrier because of its eight-color and three-size options. The backpack's quick-dry neoprene material is water-resistant, hand-washable, and perfect for gym trips, work commutes, and day hikes alike. 

There's an interior pocket to store your laptop and even a pouch to hold an extra pair of shoes. This work-life balance bag, as Dagne Dover describes it, is also insulated and evenly distributes weight to add comfort to its sophisticated design.

Read more in our full Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack review .

Best for college students: The North Face Jester Backpack

For a backpack apt for carrying books, your laptop, and other study essentials, look no further than The North Face Jester Backpack . We've selected North Face backpacks as top carriers for college in our best backpacks for students guide, notably for its bags with large laptop compartments.

Whether you're commuting to class or en route to the library, the backpack's durably-padded design features a large main compartment, two mesh water bottle pockets, and even a reflective bike-light loop for evening campus walking.

Best for work-to-gym: Caraa Stratus Backpack

Caraa is an up-and-coming indie brand that makes thoughtful considerations for the wearers of their designs. The Stratus backpack is no exception, with its mesh netting interior compartments and removable pouch. Its exterior features clever details, such as with an inconspicuous pocket placed strategically on the flat back panel, and its exterior is constructed with a weatherproof cloudlike nylon.

"Starting with the material, you'll find that it's incredibly lightweight (we're talking nearly unnoticeable), like a handful of feathers," says Insider Reviews Executive Editor Sally Kaplan. What's more, there are vents at the bottom that air out any damp workout clothes so the inside always stays fresh. 

Read more in our full Caraa Stratus Backpack review . 

Best customizable backpack: Fjallraven Kanken Backpack

The Kanken backpack is another Fjallraven favorite, and it's also the brand's signature style. It's offered in more than 50 colors and multiple sizes to best fit your storage and laptop needs. Along with its cool Scandinavian design, what makes this backpack special is a built-in sitting pad you can pull out at a moment's notice. Former senior story producer Emily Hein counts this bag as her go-to, and says that "The included sitting pad is especially useful in the summer — a saving grace at parks and beaches."

Hein also says there's a good reason you'll spot these so often on the streets of New York City. "It's spacious enough to fit all my necessities for the day (including my 13" laptop, albeit tightly), but not bulky or noticeably heavy." Read more in our Fjallraven Tree Kanken review . 

Best beach backpack: The Carhartt Medium Pack

The Carhartt Medium Pack comes bundled with a three-can insulated cooler, making it an excellent beach backpack for taking on hikes, seaside, fishing, or anywhere you might want to enjoy a cold drink while on the go. It's made from Cordura, a super durable and water-repellent material, and has plush padded mesh panels on the back and shoulder straps for comfort.

Features like a fleece-lined eyewear compartment, 15-inch laptop sleeve, and an elastic pocket for a tablet also make the Carhartt Medium Pack one of the best backpacks for school or work. 

Best travel backpack: Tortuga Outbreaker

Editor's note: The Outbreaker has since been phased out, but Tortuga's new-and-improved  Travel Backpack Pro  is a worthy upgrade with near-identical features.

The weather-resistant Tortuga Outbreaker was tested by former editor Jen Gushue , along with eight other top travel backpacks on the market, and it was a top-performer for its convenient storage options — enough to house four-to-five days of travel necessities. Aside from the zipper-bordered main compartment, there are two large mesh compartments on the opposite side, as well as impressive organization pouches throughout. 

The adjustable harness system features a wide hip belt that makes traveling customizable and comfortable. It's a splurge for sure, but after testing it in person, it's clear how Tortuga's designs and quality materials are worth the investment. Read more about another of their top travel backpacks in our full Tortuga Setout Backpack review . 

Best diaper backpack: Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack

Dagne Dover's Dakota backpack may be more well known, but the brand's Indi diaper backpack is also worth checking out. Even if you're not using it for storing nappies, it has features for neatly carrying a day trip's worth of essentials.

The bag is overflowing with organizational pockets that keep everything in its place, so you don't have to go digging for toiletries or your ID as you pass through airport security. You'd never know the Indi is a diaper bag because of its clean design, and as another travel hack, Saguin uses the fold-up changing mat as a portable work-from-home station. Currently, only the small size is available, but it's typically offered in medium and large sizes too. See more in our full Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack review . 

Best convertible backpack: Caraa Studio Tote

Caraa takes care in making thoughtfully designed bags. The Studio Tote is a multi-use bag that changes from tote to backpack seamlessly. Made from bespoke Italian leather, this is one of the best backpacks as chic as it is functional. It has a 17-inch laptop sleeve, removable straps, and anti-microbial lining. Read more about the Studio Tote in our full Caraa Sport Convertible Work Gym Bag review.

Best closet backpack: Solgaard Lifepack Endeavor (with closet)

Solgaard is primarily a luggage retailer, but their best-selling Endeavor backpack incorporates everything they specialize in regarding travel into a compact backpack. The Endeavor holds up to 5-7 days of necessities based on which size suits your needs. Its genius closet system organizes clothing and has storage compartments for a laptop, glasses, papers, and cords. The optional hip strap addition makes it secure to carry everywhere and has plush shoulder straps. 

Solgaard's fabrics are made with upcycled ocean-bound plastics and the Endeavor comes with a 30 day warranty should you not love it (most unlikely). 

Best hiking backpack: Mountaintop 40L Hiking Backpack

The long-form, buckled Mountaintop 40L Hiking Backpack is a multi-use carrier that's exclusive to hiking. Though former Personal Finance reporter Liz Knueven has taken it on trails before, she finds it best for traveling and said she was never questioned by airline companies if it will fit in a bin or under the seat. If you are planning on hitting the trails and want to brace for inclement weather, we suggest a compact rain cover that will slide easily into the Mountaintop backpack's many compartments. 

The polyester pack has many built-in compartments that are easy to store small items. Kneuven said it has held up, it's affordable at less than $50, and comes in a variety of colors. 

Best backpack for tailgating: Fanatics Colorblock Cooler Backpack

Fanatics' range of game day essentials includes a backpack that's practical for all the social events that come with being a die-hard fan. The Fanatics cooler backpack has exterior pockets for your personal belongings, while its interior is like a portable mini-fridge. 

Instead of lugging along a bulky hard shell cooler, the Cooler Backpack frees your hands and comes embossed with your favorite team's logo. 

Best eco-friendly backpack: Green Terra Thread Earth Backpack

The Terra Thread Earth backpack is likely best suited for students, but its sturdy Certified Fairtrade Organic cotton canvas makes it durable enough for the outdoors as well. It features designated pockets for a laptop, two water bottles, and small items like keys or writing utensils. 

The Earth backpack is handmade in a factory upheld to the Global Organic Textile Standard and is shipped without excessive packaging to reduce impact on the environment. Finally, each purchase helps Terra Thread send funds to Feeding America, who in turn donates meals to children and families in need.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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