Africa
Zambia
Calm, English-speaking and rich in wildlife: South Luangwa walking safaris, the Zambezi and Victoria Falls. Distances are long, roads rough and tourist prices high; Lusaka is functional rather than charming.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- Visa83 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyZMWUS$1 ≈ K19.70Details
- Price level30%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English4/5Widely spokenDetails
- PlugsType C, D, G230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency112Police 991 · Ambulance 992 · Fire 993 · All emergencies 112
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water; city tap water is not reliably safe and rural sources need treatment.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedHostile public attitudes and occasional arrests.Details
- DrivingOn the leftHome licence in English is generally accepted for short stays; an IDP is a sensible backup at police checkpoints.
Where to go in Zambia
2 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LivingstoneTown | 3/5 | $812–1,420 | May–Nov | 72/100 |
| LusakaCapital city | 3/5 | $1,020–1,730 | May–Sep | 61/100 |
When to visit Zambia
May–October is dry and best for safaris; walking safaris peak June–October. Victoria Falls is fullest March–June. November–April is hot and rainy, with lush scenery.
Good to know
Entry
- Many nationalities are visa-exempt; others get an e-visa or visa on arrival (about 50 USD single entry). Check the immigration site.
- The KAZA UNIVISA (50 USD) covers Zambia and Zimbabwe, with day trips to Botswana; sold at Livingstone airport and borders.
- Yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from risk countries; passport needs 6 months validity.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing government buildings, airports or the military is prohibited
- Drug offences, including cannabis, carry long sentences
- Wildlife products are illegal to buy or export
Etiquette
- Greet with a handshake and ask after people before business
- Use the right hand to give and receive
- Dress modestly in towns and villages
- Ask before photographing people
Tipping
10% in restaurants if no service charge; guides and lodge staff are tipped in USD or kwacha at the end of a stay.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Zambia Department of Immigration
- Zambia Tourism Agency
- UK FCDO travel advice: Zambia
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.