Zambia

Zambia has excellent national parks teeming with birds and other animals, as well as the spectacular Victoria Falls and Zambezi River. Apart from sightseeing, these places are also centres for activities ranging from canoeing to white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

When To Go

If you want to spot wildlife, August to October is the best time to visit, though an average of around 32°C (89°F) during the day by the end of that period, especially in low-lying areas - which includes the major national parks. If you want cooler weather and greener landscapes, visit during the cool, dry months of May to August. During the November to April rainy season some national parks are closed, and animals are harder to spot because of the lush vegetation, although the lodges that remain open offer very attractive rates and you have the parks virtually to yourself. Getting around at this time is also harder as many rural roads become impassable rivers of mud. Zambia is an excellent place for bird-watchers; November to December is the best time, although conditions are good year-round.

Climate

Although Zambia lies in the tropics, the height of the plateau ensures that the climate is seldom unpleasantly hot, except in the valleys of Luangwa and Zambezi.  There are three seasons: cool, dry winter season from May to September; hot, dry season in October and November; and the rainy and hot season from December to April.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Kwacha (ZMK), which is divided into 100 Ngweee. Some of the commercial banks in Zambia are First National Bank, Bank of Zambia, Standard Bank and Grindlays Bank International.

Bank hours: Monday – Friday 09:00 – 14:00
Saturday 09:00 – 14:00

Major hotels have foreign currency facilities.  Most shops, lodges and travel agencies will accept traveller’s cheques.  Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club credit cards are accepted at many places although not at most of the private bush lodges.  Most lodges and hotels will charge for extras in US$ or GB£. For cash, small US$ denominations are recommended.

Dress

Dress in Zambia is generally casual.  A cardigan or pullover is often needed in the cool early mornings and after sunset, especially for night drives, except during the hot months of October to March.  For those going to the bush, khaki clothing, comfortable shoes and a hat are necessary.  Long sleeved shirts and trousers are also advisable to protect against insect bites and bush scratches.

Please also remember a raincoat for the summer season (November – March).  In the winter warmer clothing is required particularly in the evenings when the temperatures can drop to zero.  Always take precautions against the sun (even in winter).  Sun block, sunglasses and a sun hat are essential items as are good walking shoes for safaris. We will provide you with a full packing list prior to departure. Binoculars per person are a must on safari.

Health

No vaccinations are currently required for entry into Zambia when arrival is directly from North America or Europe. We recommend that boosters of tetanus for children and adults are up to date; other courses or boosters that are usually advised are diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and typhoid. Consult your doctor or specialist travel clinic for advice. A yellow fever vaccination is not compulsory but recommended. Check your itinerary carefully to find out if any countries you will be visiting or connecting through subsequently (such as South Africa) requires you to show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Similarly, if your route to Zambia takes you through another country in the yellow fever zone, you will need to show a vaccination certificate on entry into Zambia. Yellow fever vaccinations must be administered at least ten days before arrival (or re-entry) into Zambia.

Malaria precautions are essential in all areas, all year round. There are several safe and effective options for adults and children alike. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset. You are advised to use insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Prompt investigation of fever or flu like symptoms anytime within six weeks of travel is essential.

As with all travel to remote places in developing countries, it is worth spending a little time to make sure you are well prepared. Have a small supply of any medicines you might need to treat minor ailments and carry a course of emergency ‘standby’ treatment for malaria. As a precaution boil and sterilise drinking water outside the main towns, or buy bottled water.

Languages

English is the official language.  The main African languages are Bemba, Nyanja, Lozi and Toga.

Charter Aircraft

Please note that all charter transfers are in light aircraft that carry between five and seven passengers. These planes are limited with regards to the weight that they can safely carry. It is therefore vital that all passengers adhere to the luggage restriction of twelve (12) kilogram's per person in a soft bag. This excludes a reasonable amount of camera equipment and carry on luggage (15 kilogram's in total). In addition, please let us know if you are over 1.82 meters (6’2”) tall or weigh over 100kg (220lbs).

Tickets are generally not issued tickets for charter flights; you will however, receive a voucher.

Local time

GMT + 2 hours

Visas/Passports

Required by all except nationals of Zambia.  Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after the date of your holiday with plenty of spare pages in it.

All of our clients who have confirmed booking/reservation through tour operators in conjunction with Zambian registered tour operators have their visa requirements waived by means of a letter.  If in transit through Zambia, you may require a visa which is obtainable at the border for a fee (approx US$30.00).  Please note when you complete the visa form, you need to state the length of time you will be spending in Zambia. (Total number of days).

FOR SECURITY PURPOSES, WE SUGGEST THAT YOU CARRY A PHOTOCOPY OF THE RELEVANT PAGES OF YOUR PASSPORT AND ANY OTHER IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS WITH YOU. WE ALSO RECOMMEND THAT IN ADDITION, YOU LEAVE COPIES WITH SOMEONE AT HOME.