Zambia – Travel Guide
Discover Zambia, a land of untamed wilderness and majestic rivers, from the thundering Victoria Falls to the pristine plains of South Luangwa National Park. Indulge in authentic cuisine, savoring traditional dishes like nshima and biltong, infused with local flavors. Immerse yourself in nature in the Lower Zambezi National Park, home to diverse wildlife including elephants and hippos. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and the vast expanses of the Kafue National Park. Experience the warmth of Zambian hospitality in the vibrant markets of Lusaka and the traditional villages of the countryside. Zambia invites you to explore its natural wonders and vibrant culture, promising an unforgettable journey in the heart of Africa.
All about Zambia
Zambia FAQ
What is Zambia known for?
Zambia is known for its diverse and breathtaking natural wonders. The country is also famous for its abundant wildlife and national parks, and safari adventures. The country’s rich cultural heritage, with over 70 ethnic groups, presents a vibrant tapestry of traditions, music, and festivals. Moreover, Zambia is renowned for its warm and welcoming people, whose hospitality leaves a lasting impression on travelers.
What are the best places to visit in Zambia?
The capital is a vibrant and diverse destination with a rich cultural heritage. Known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Lusaka offers a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. Visitors can explore bustling markets, such as the iconic Soweto Market, to experience the local flavors and crafts. Lusaka also boasts beautiful natural surroundings, with nearby national parks offering opportunities for wildlife safaris and outdoor adventures. Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, South Luangwa National Park, and Lower Zambezi National Park are other important sites.
How many days should I spend in Zambia?
We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.
What is the best way to get around Zambia?
By Rental Car: If you`ve got a bit more time, consider renting a car. Car rental is readily available at the airport and other major cities, though it is a bit expensive compared with other forms of transportation.
What is the currency of Zambia?
The currency of Zambia is the Zambian kwacha (ZMW). The kwacha is the official currency and is used for all transactions within the country. It is divided into smaller units called ngwee, with 100 ngwee equaling 1 kwacha. ATMs are available in major cities and towns, allowing for cash withdrawals using international debit or credit cards.
Do people speak English in Zambia?
Yes, English is the official language of Zambia and is widely spoken throughout the country. It serves as the medium of instruction in schools, the language of government and administration, and is used in business and commerce.
Best time to visit Zambia
The best time to visit Zambia is during the dry season between June and November. The skies are a beautiful cobalt blue, the days are hot, and the nights are cool. Temperatures are typically anywhere from the mid 70°s F to the upper 90°s F across the country. Wildlife-spotting opportunities are abundant during this time too, as animals gather around the limited water sources.
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A Wet season safari (November to April) is mus 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.
Victoria Falls makes a great option to combine with a safari, but can be visited on its own when the camps are closed briefly in the wet season between January and February. This is when the ‘smoke that thunders’ lives up to its name. This name was coined by the Kalolo-Lozi people, who could see the enormous clouds of mist and spray from a distance.
May – October
May is the start of the dry season and is considered one of the best times to go to Zambia for game viewing. Not only does this month mark the end of the rainy season, but is also renowned as the most scenic month of the year. Some safari camps and lodges in Zambia have re-opened and this is also a great time to view Victoria Falls in all its mighty glory.
June marks the start of peak safari season for game viewing. The weather tends to get very hot later in the dry season, but June is cooler, making it one of the best times to go to Zambia for walking safaris. The Luangwa Valley is Zambia’s walking safari mecca, although many of the major parks offer guided walks as well.
July is one of the busiest months, but the best time for a Zambia safari as the wildlife viewing is spectacular. However, the camps do charge their highest rates during this peak season. The vegetation is no longer lush from all the rainfall in previous months, making the wildlife far easier to spot. Late July is when the white-water rafting season starts, but the conditions of the rapids all depend on how much rainfall occurred during the rainy season.
Peak safari season in Zambia continues in August with the perfect combination of cool and dry weather conditions thinning out the vegetation, making this the best time to visit Zambia for phenomenal wildlife encounters. The dry air causes the surface water sources to evaporate by the end of the month, which sends the herds out in their masses to their regular watering holes. South Luangwa National Park is especially good at this time of year, when you can embark on walking safaris.
In September temperatures rise, birdwatching is spectacular, and sightings of eagles and storks preying on fish in the depleted pools are very common. Despite the warm days, things do cool off by the afternoon and make for great conditions for a walking safari. There are plenty of things to do in Zambia during this month.
The heat is relentless during October in Zambia, as the extremely warm weather sweeps over the low-lying regions of the country. By this time white-water rafting is not just an adventure challenge, but a great way to cool down from the heat when you visit Zambia. For fishermen, Lake Kariba is where to go in Zambia for tiger fishing in October. There may be no water coming over the Zambian side of Victoria Falls at this time and you may need to cross over to Zimbabwe to see the main falls.
January – March
January is the peak of the rainy season and is a time of heavy summer rainfall. This is not considered the best time to visit Zambia because the roadways are often flooded and some of the camps are closed.
February is very similar to January with short, heavy thunderstorms and flooded roadways across the safari parks. Fly-in safaris are the best way to experience Zambia’s wet, emerald season and although not all lodges remain open, a few in the South Luangwa National Park offer excellent boating safaris at this time of year.
The wet season is nearing an end by March but there’s still plenty of rainfall, especially in the north of the country. This is a great time to visit Zambia for birdwatching, as thousands of migratory species begin to take flight for their annual migration. March is a great month for a lower Zambezi River cruise, and when Victoria Falls is at its fullest, but best seen from the skies in a helicopter or microlight – unless you don’t mind getting soaked by the spray.
Animals are harder to find during these wet months because they no longer rely on rivers and waterholes to drink.
November – December
The weather can be quite unpredictable during November, as it’s hard to determine exactly when the summer rains will begin. But it’s one of the best times to go to Zambia for lower rates on accommodation. Despite the impending rainy season, Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration begins in the Liuwa Plain National Park around mid-November – safari lovers can witness the spectacle of up to 40,000 blue wildebeest traversing the landscape.
December is generally cooler than previous months in the year and is the start of the rainy season in Zambia. Despite the cooler conditions, the climate can still be very warm and humid. Most camps and lodges close completely due to heavy rainfall and flooding.
Tipping in Zambia
This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.
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Tipping in Zambia
Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use Kwacha?
The Zambian currency is the Kwacha (ZMW), and is divided into 100 ngwee. It is best to bring US Dollars, which can be exchanged at the many bureaux de change found in the main towns; visitors should avoid exchanging money outside of banks or respected hotels. While most of the tourist hotels, restaurants, travel agents, and larger shops, especially in Lusaka and Livingstone, accept credit cards, many outlets in the rural areas do not and deal only in local currency. ATMs are available in Lusaka and some of the major towns. Banking hours vary but are usually 8.30 am to 3.30 pm on weekdays and mornings on Saturdays.
Restaurants: When should I tip? How much is customary?
At a local eatery, it’s not expected, but at more upmarket restaurants, you can tip 10% for good service. However, check the bill first to make sure a service charge wasn’t already included.
Tipping in bars is not common, you can leave the change if you enjoyed the service.
Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?
Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped but they appreciate the fare being rounded up.
Hotels: Is a tip required?
Most heading to Zambia are doing so on a safari. If taking one you should tip around 52,000 ZMK to your ranger and tracker per person per day. For the other staff split 130,000 ZMK between them at the lodge, there may be a collection pot for them. Make sure you do it in local currency if possible. This makes it easier for the locals.
Miscellaneous: Useful Information for a Smooth Experience.
Most heading to Zambia are doing so on a safari. If taking one you should tip around 52,000 ZMK to your ranger and tracker per person per day. For the other staff split 130,000 ZMK between them at the lodge, there may be a collection pot for them. Make sure you do it in local currency if possible. This makes it easier for the locals.
Top Cities in Zambia
What to expect while traveling
