Zambia

The Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the pride of Zambia. David Livingstone was the first European to discover the Victoria Falls in 1850 and named them after her majesty Queen Victoria. This is bound to be a highlight of your visit to Southern Africa – the great spectacle of the waters of the Zambezi thundering 100 metres down mighty rock faces, creates an indelible impression. Zambia also offers foot safaris deep into the heart of national parks, remarkable for their pristine natural beauty and abundant game and birdlife.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Communications
The international country code for Zambia is +260. Cellular service providers in Zambia are Airtel, MTN and CellZee.

Credit Card and Currency
The Zambian currency is the Kwacha. Most large hotels, restaurants and retail establishments in the country’s main cities and towns accept Visa and/or MasterCard. American Express and Diners Club cards may be accepted by some establishments but it would be a mistake to rely on them exclusively.

Driving
Always keep left hand side of the road. All foreigners and visitors are required to carry an international driver’s licence.

Electricity
Zambia electricity supply: 220/230 volts AC 50 Hz.

Languages
The official language in Zambia is English

Malaria
While malaria is found mainly in the north of the country, it has also been reported in the central region. Tourist can help reduce the risk of malaria by using personal protection measures (mosquito net at night, long sleeves and long trousers at night, apply mosquito repellents to skin and clothing…) and prophylactics.

Safety
Zambia is a peaceful country but always exercise precautions like any other countries. Don’t walk around with things you can’t do without, like your passport or airline tickets. Carry minimum amounts of cash

Time
+2 hrs GMT

Tipping
Tipping is common practice in Zambia for a range of services. In restaurants the accepted standard is around 10% of the bill.

Visa
All visitors must be in possession of a valid passport in order to enter the country. Some Foreign Nationals require entry visas, which are available at point of entry but other Foreign Nationals don’t need Visa.
Important Note: This is a guide only – please check with your nearest Zambian consulate, embassy or Zambian diplomatic mission for up to date information.

Weather
Rainy season dominates from December to March, leaving little sunshine. Temperatures climb up to 29°C to 30°C (84-86°F) during the day with quite cold nights throughout the year. Overall temperatures are slightly cooler in the middle of the year, which, along with sparse rainfall, make things quite pleasant.

Vaccinations
Cholera vaccination will be required if visitors are coming from an infected zone. Yellow Fever vaccination is required if visitors have been in an infected zone a week prior to their arrival in Zambia Vaccinations tetanus are advised.

Shopping
In general, shops are open from 08.00 until 17.00 and closed on Saturday afternoons and Sundays