Zambia

Southern Africa · Africa

Capital
Lusaka
Currency
Zambian Kwacha (ZMW K)
Language
English (official); Bemba, Nyanja and others
Timezone
UTC+2
Safety rating
6.5/10
Best time to visit
The dry season from May to October is best for wildlife, with Victoria Falls at its fullest around March to May.

Overview

Zambia shares the thundering Victoria Falls with Zimbabwe and pioneered the walking safari in the wildlife-rich South Luangwa, Kafue and Lower Zambezi parks. Genuine, uncrowded and adventurous, it offers canoeing, the daredevil Devil's Pool and superb leopard sightings. It is a connoisseur's safari destination.

Visa requirements

Many travelers can get a visa on arrival or e-visa, and some nationalities are visa-exempt; the KAZA UniVisa may cover Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Safety information

Zambia is politically stable and generally safe, with petty crime the main concern in Lusaka and Livingstone. Take normal precautions at night, respect wildlife on walking safaris, and watch for strong currents near Victoria Falls.

Travel tips

Carry kwacha in cash and use mobile money, as card acceptance is limited outside cities, and bring some US dollars. English makes travel easy, and you should book walking safaris and the Devil's Pool in advance. Buy an MTN or Airtel SIM for data.

Cities in Zambia

Traveler essentials