Zambia FAQs
What language is spoken in Zambia?
The official language of Zambia is English.
What currency is used in Zambia?
The currency used throughout the country is the Zambian kwacha, although US Dollars are widely accepted. Mastercard and Visa are accepted at lodges and restaurants throughout the country, however, many vendors charge a service fee. ATMs can be found in most major cities within the country.
Do I need a visa to travel to Zambia?
A visa is required when travelling from the United States or Canada as a tourist. These can be obtained at all major borders. A valid passport is required and needs to be valid for a further six months from the date of arrival into the country.
When is the best time to travel to Zambia?
The best time for game viewing is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The green season, so-called because the bush is lush and green, is from December to April and this is the rainy season. The best time to view Victoria Falls from the Zambian side is at the end of the rainy season (March to May), which is when the falls are at their most spectacular. Towards the end of the dry season (October and November), there is often very little water flowing over the Zambian side of the falls, in which case you can cross over to the Zimbabwe side, to view the main falls.
Is there transportation within Zambia?
Visitors typically pre-book a safari package prior to arriving in Zambia. This package includes the services of an English-speaking driver-guide and a 4X4 vehicle, which in turn will be their primary mode of transportation. For those short on time and who prefer less driving, there is also the option of flying between destinations on small aircraft to the local airstrips and returning. The two main airports that tourists would arrive at are Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka and Livingstone International airport. From here, there are scheduled charter flights to fly tourists to the national parks such as the South Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi and the Kafue National parks.
Is Zambia a family-friendly destination?
Zambia has a lot to offer families and there are many lodges that accommodate families with kid-friendly menus, babysitting, and activities geared towards younger guests such as nature walks, fishing and cooking lessons. We would recommend a private vehicle. Note that there is a minimum age of 12 for walking safaris in Zambia’s national parks.
How welcoming is Zambia to LGBTQ travellers?
While Zambians by their nature are friendly and welcoming, homosexual acts are still illegal and conservative beliefs still prevail. Caught between a liberalising Southern Africa and anti-LGBTQ crackdowns in East Africa, Zambia has been sitting on legislation to decriminalize homosexuality since 2018, with no sign of progress imminent. LGBTQ travellers should be mindful of local sensibilities, particularly in rural areas.
What if any vaccinations are required or suggested for travel to Zambia?
There are no compulsory vaccinations required for Zambia, however, we recommend you consult with your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date recommendations, particularly in regard to malaria prophylactics. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
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