Zambia

Zambia is the land of the legendary African walking safari, big game, abundant birdlife and raw, pulsating wilderness are all what visitors can expect to find in Zambia.

Zambia has a lot to offer.  It is blessed with 17 waterfalls including the spectacular Victoria Falls – the country is a fine destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers.  Massive lakes, rich wetlands and breathtaking African sunsets contribute to the country's scenic splendour.  The wild Zambezi River is perfect for adrenaline rush activities such as white water rafting, canoeing safaris, river surfing and tiger fishing.

The Zambian safari and tourism infrastructure are still relatively undeveloped; however, there is a small but sophisticated safari industry with excellent safari lodges and seasonal bush camps and some of the best African safari guides.  African safaris in Zambia are ideally suited for "old Africa hands" or those seeking a remote and more exclusive African safari.

The Zambian government has long recognised the economic importance of its wildernesses and is acutely aware of environmental concerns: almost one-third of the country is given over to national parks and game reserves. 

Full Country Name: Republic of Zambia
Area: 752,614 sq km
Population: 13.48 million (UN 2011)
Capital: Lusaka
Borders: Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe
Religion: Around 30% of the population is Christian (Protestant and Roman Catholic), a smaller number are Muslim and Hindu, and a small minority have traditional animist beliefs
Time Zone: Standard time is two hours in advance of Greenwich Mean Time
Languages: English is the official language, but there are over 73 local dialects. The main languages are Bemba, Kaonde, Lozi, Lunda, Luvale, Nyanja and Tonga
Country Dialling Code: +260

 

CLIMATE

The main tourist season runs between May and the end of October when conditions are ideal for walking.  Zambia’s climate can be split into three distinct periods.  From December to April it is hot and wet, with torrential downpours in the late afternoon, making many areas inaccessible to tourists.  From May to August it is dry and fairly cool.  From September to November it remains dry but gets progressively hotter.


CURRENCY & BANKS

The currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMK), which is divided into 100 ngwee.  However the US Dollar is the favoured currency.  American Express and MasterCard credit cards are not accepted everywhere. 

 

ELECTRICITY

The general voltage is 230 and frequency is 50 Hz.  Some hotels have the new system round pin plugs or an adaptor for square and round.  Some lodges and camps only have power in the early mornings and evenings.  Some video charging facilities are centralised.

As the sockets can vary a ‘Travellers Adaptor Set’ is recommended. Voltage sometimes fluctuates and whilst power cuts are rare, they are not unknown.  It is useful to carry a torch.

 

HEALTH

Health requirements vary from country to country. We recommend you speak to your local Travel Doctor for up-to-date information and advice.  The following information is to be used as a guide only. 

Malaria: It is recommended that precautions against malaria are taken for travel to most regions in Africa. We suggest you contact your doctor for advice on which prophylactic is recommended.

Yellow Fever: A Yellow Fever vaccination is required.  All travellers must carry proof that the Yellow Fever vaccine has been administered at least 10 days prior to travel.

 

LOCAL DEPARTURE TAX

The National Airports Corporation introduced an additional airport tax that must be paid by all departing passengers on domestic flights.  Fees can be paid on departure in US dollars and Zambian Kwacha.  The fee is USD $8 per person for domestic flights.  These fees may change without notice.


NATIONAL PARK ENTRY FEES

The National Heritage entry fee to the Victoria Falls is USD 20.00 per person – payable locally (subject to change).

 

ROAD TRAVEL

Please note that road surfaces vary from tarmac, gravel, sand and occasionally vehicles may travel "off road".  Additionally, if visiting remote areas or National Parks and Reserves, the roads may well be rough, bumpy and in a poor condition and may be affected by adverse weather conditions.


VISA INFORMATION

At the time of writing, a visa for Zambia is required for Australian Passport Holders.  The visa can be obtained on arrival at the airport or at the border post.

Single Entry Visa: USD $50 per person on an Australian Passport (subject to change).

Double Entry Visa: USD $80 per person on an Australian Passport (subject to change).

We hope that you will find this country Information on Zambia useful for reference when preparing for your holiday.  All the information above was correct at the time of writing and is to be used as a guide only.  Health, visa and other specific details should be double checked by your travel agent at the time of booking.

Zambia is home to superb wildlife, fantastic safaris, great adventure activities as well as a rich culture of friendly people. Zambia’s National Parks are relatively unknown but have, over the past few years, been unveiling a series of stunning safari destinations. The lodges and tented camps here offer a diverse choice of environments and represent some of the most exciting and unspoiled areas in Africa.

Victoria Falls

Described by the Kololo tribe living in the area in the 1800’s as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ - ‘the Smoke that Thunders’ and in more modern terms as ‘the greatest known curtain of falling water’. Victoria Falls are a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, bordering Zambia and Zimbabwe. Columns of spray can be seen from miles away as 546 million cubic meters of water per minute plummet over the edge (at the height of the flood season) over a width of nearly two kilometers into a deep gorge over 100 meters below. The wide basalt cliff, over which the falls thunder, transforms the Zambezi from a wide placid river to a ferocious torrent cutting through a series of dramatic gorges.

Livingstone

Named after the famous Victorian missionary explorer, Dr. David Livingstone, the Town was established in 1905. As a major European settlement, the town was made the capital of Northern Rhodesia in 1911. Sightseeing activities in Livingstone consist of: The Livingstone Museum which is the country’s biggest and oldest museum, dating back to the 1930’s. The museum is open every day from 09h00 - 16h30 and is on the main road through the centre of town; For steam engine enthusiasts, the Railway Museum in Chishimba Falls road holds some fine examples of Zambia’s railway heritage including old steam locomotives and vintage coaches to the tiniest railway memorabilia and old photographs illustrating life in the pioneer days of the town; Cruise on the wide upper Zambezi, go to the boat club where you’ll find a two deck cruiser called the African Queen.

Mosi-o-Tunya Zoological Park

The Mosi-O-Tunya National Park is situated along the upper Zambezi, stretching from and including the Victoria Falls for about 12kms up the Zambezi River above the Falls. It is only 66 square kilometres but there are plans to extend the park further up river.  Because the park is small, it affords a wonderfully relaxing drive alongside the river for much of the circular route and the wide variety of species can be easily seen. The Park provides a home for numerous antelope species, zebra, giraffe, warthog, a variety of birds and smaller animals. Elephants cross the Zambezi and freely walk through the park and the surrounding area.  One can take a pleasant drive around the park in a couple of hours and all the species there should be seen at close range. Since there are no predators, they are very relaxed and afford some excellent photo opportunities.

South Luangwa National Park

Experts have dubbed South Luangwa as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and not without reason. The concentration of game around the Luangwa River and its ox bow lagoons is among the most intense in Africa. The Luangwa River is the most intact major river system in Africa and is the life blood of the park's 9050km2.    The Park hosts a wide variety of wildlife, birds and vegetation. The now famous ‘walking safari’ originated in this park is still one of the finest ways to experience this pristine wilderness first hand. The changing seasons add to the Park’s richness ranging from dry, bare bushveld in the winter to a lush green wonderland in the summer months. There are 60 different animal species and over 400 different bird species. The only notable exception is the rhino, sadly poached to extinction.

Lower Zambezi

This is Zambia’s newest Park and as such is still relatively undeveloped, but its beauty lies in its absolute wilderness state. The diversity of animals is not as wide as the other big parks, but the opportunities to get close to game wandering in and out of the Zambezi channels are spectacular. The Park lies opposite the famous Mana Pools Reserve in Zimbabwe, so the whole area on both sides of the river is a massive wildlife sanctuary. The rivers edge is overhung with a thick riverine fringe. Further inland is a floodplain fringed with mopane forest and interspersed with winterthorn trees Acacia albida. The hills which form the backdrop to the park are covered in broadleaf woodland. The Lower Zambezi National Park covers an area of 4092 square kilometers, but most of the game is concentrated along the valley floor. There is an escarpment along the northern end which acts as a physical barrier to most of the parks animal species. Enormous herds of elephant, some up to 100 strong, are often seen at the rivers edge. ‘Island hopping’ buffalo and waterbuck are common. The park also hosts good populations of lion and leopard and listen too for the ubiquitous cry of the fish eagle.

Lochinvar National Park

Lochinvar, although not abundant in the larger mammals, is nonetheless a park of exceptional beauty and outstanding birding opportunities with over 420 recorded species in its 428 square kilometers. The Park is situated on the southern edge of the Kafue Flats, a wide floodplain of the Kafue River between Itezhi tezhi dam in the west and Kafue Gorge in the east. The area extends for 33kms from the Kafue River in the north to low wooded hills in the south. It includes the large, shallow Chunga Lagoon which fluctuates considerably in size with variations in river levels. The varying vegetation makes it an interesting park to visit with floodplains, woodlands and termitaria. It is particularly well known for the large herds of Kafue lechwe, unique to the Kafue flats. Other antelope are the blue wildebeest, kudu, oribi and buffalo. Waterbirds are especially abundant.

Choose your Experience

Cape Town to Cairo in Style

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Location: Cape Town | Kruger National Park | Johannesburg | Livingstone | Nairobi | Lake Nakuru National Park | Masai Mara Game Reserve | Cairo | Aswan | Luxor |

This incredible 25-day five star adventure takes you on a journey of discovery in style through the scenic splendours and wildlife of Africa to the ancient mysteries of Egypt. Commence your journey in the beautiful city of Cape Town before travelling north on board the Rovos Rail – the most luxurious train in the world. Experience open vehicle game drives in the Kruger National Park, gaze at the magnificent and world famous Victoria Falls before venturing to the game reserves and parks of Kenya with the vast savannahs of the Masai Mara and the seasonal world renowned annual Migration. The finale of the trip brings you to Egypt, where you’ll discover ancient times, the Pyramids of Giza, enjoy a luxury cruise on the River Nile and visit the magnificent temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel.

Great Wilderness Journey with Wilderness Safaris

Location: Livingstone | Chobe National Park | Okavango Delta |

This journey takes the time to explore Botswana's contrasts and extremes in prime areas where few people travel. Experience a nostalgic lodge safari that recreates the sense of a game-viewing adventure reminiscent of the times of the great African explorers. The Great Wilderness Journey takes time to experience the world-famous Victoria Falls on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River and explore Botswana's scenic northern areas: from the blue-green wetlands of the Okavango Delta to the diverse and wildlife-rich Linyanti and Chobe River systems. Accommodation includes a combination of Wilderness Safaris camps, all in private concession areas.

Itenga Wildlife Safari

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Location: Okavango Delta | Livingstone | Chobe National Park | Etosha National Park | Windhoek | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Explore the diversity of the National Parks and Reserves of Nambia and Botswana. Seek out the wildlife and experience the culture of the Himba people, together with the spectacular scenery of the Sossuslvei and the breathtaking Victoria Falls. The group size is a maximum of 14. The safari crew consists of a professional guide, assistant and chef to pre-erect the camp and responsible for all camp duties.

Norman Carr Safaris - Classic South Luangwa Safari

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Location: South Luangwa |

The Luangwa Valley has long been regarded as one of Africa's finest wildlife reserves. Its unspoilt natural beauty and abundant game make it an ideal destination for an African safari holiday.  The late Norman Carr started the first safari company here in 1950 and more than 50 years on, we're still leading the way in Zambian wildlife safaris.

Norman Carr Safaris - Luwi River Trail

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Location: South Luangwa |

An eight night privately guided safari adventure. Norman Carr Safaris have three camps along the course of this beautiful and dynamic river. The eponymous Luwi Camp which has been described as “the best little bush camp in Africa” is the starting point for the adventure, exploring the wild areas up towards the source of the Luwi where no other people ever go. Then a few days are spent at Nsolo, downstream of Luwi and at Kakuli which is on the confluence with the Luangwa. Guests can also opt for a night out under the stars with just a mossie net, a guide and a scout for company and camp fires to ward off nocturnal visitors, miles from “civilization” - this Return to the Wild sleep out is only for the most adventurous of spirit!

Okavango Adventure

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Location: Okavango Delta | Chobe National Park |

Experience the incredible sights and sounds of the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Caprivi Strip and the Victoria Falls on this overland safari with quality 3-4* comfortable ensuite accommodation. This exciting trip travels through breathtaking areas for the ultimate wildlife safari.

Robin Pope Safaris - Wildlife Safari Week

Location: South Luangwa |

Founded in 1986, Robin Pope Safaris is based in the unspoilt South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, home to one of the greatest collections of wildlife in the world - including leopard, lion, elephant, giraffe, buffalo, hippo and more than 400 species of birds.

Rovos Rail - Cape Town to Dar es Salaam (vv)

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Location: Victoria Falls | Pretoria | Cape Town |

This 14-day journey is one of the most famous train trips in the world taking you through South Africa with stops in Kimberley, Pretoria and the Kruger National Park, and on to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. After crossing the Zambezi River you will travel north eastwards through Zambia and continue the climb towards the Zambian/Tanzanian border, almost the midpoint between Africa’s two Great Rift Valley lakes. On the last day the train passes through Selous Game Reserve (Tanzania), the largest in Africa before arriving in the bustle of Dar es Salaam.

Sanctuary Puku Ridge Camp

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Location: South Luangwa |

Located in an area rich with wildlife, Sanctuary Puku Ridge Camp offers guests an authentic tented safari experience in the South Luangwa National Park. The secluded camp is designed to leave no trace on the environment and has embraced a very natural kind of African chic in its decor. The seven tents are spacious and comfortable, each with a soothing hot tub and an outdoor shower. Watch the sun rise from your double bed, or spot animals making their way across the plains to a waterhole from your private viewing deck.

Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma

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Location: Livingstone |

Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma, just a short drive away from the world famous Victoria Falls and situated on a dramatic bend in the Zambezi. There are 12 luxury air-conditioned tree houses, connected by wooden walkways. Each tree house enjoys superb views over the river. In addition, there are two private houses available, each with two bedrooms, their own dining areas and decks with plunge pools, their own chefs and house staff. With close proximity to Livingstone, guests are able to enjoy the many activities available or relax and indulge in a range of spa treatments.

Sanctuary Zebra Plains

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Location: South Luangwa |

A luxury walking safari camp, Sanctuary Zebra Plains operates seasonally between June and October, and offers the ultimate bush adventure on foot. It is located in an untouched area of the South Luangwa, at the confluence of the Luangwa and Chibembe Rivers. Here you can explore the pristine wilderness of this fabled park with one of Africa’s most experienced expert guides, while enjoying luxurious tented accommodation and fine dining.

Shongololo - The Southern Cross Adventure

Location: Johannesburg | Kruger National Park | Livingstone | Mozambique | Victoria Falls | Chobe National Park |

This 16-day journey enables participants to visit six countries. The route is carefully crafted to deliver stunning experiences every day. The train travels leisurely between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls, allowing numerous calls at destinations in South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. As the tracks unfurl you will gain rare insight into the cultural and geographical cocktail that makes Southern Africa so vibrant and exciting.

Shongololo – Tracks of Livingstone Adventure

Location: Livingstone | South Luangwa | Victoria Falls | Chobe National Park |

Shongololo Express proudly re-introduces their Premier trip into some of the most beautiful and historically rich destinations in Southern Africa. Our multilingual tour guides, and vehicles, which are carried on board, will transport you to tour and experience all these areas have to offer. If an adventurous, yet relaxing trip is what you are looking for, come aboard the Shongololo Express!

The Authentic Safari

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Location: Okavango Delta | Livingstone | Chobe National Park |

A safari in the last, true wilderness of Africa - a photographer’s delight! Discover the real Africa around the campfire at night beneath the stars, listening to the calls of the wild, in the heart of game country, experiencing only what a camping safari can offer – BUT without the work, in secluded bush camps within the Moremi Wildlife Reserve and Chobe National Park.

Transkalahari Adventure

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Location: Cape Town | Livingstone | Chobe National Park | Etosha National Park | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei |

Enjoy travelling overland from the Victoria Falls in Zambia via the Chobe National Park in Botswana, the waterholes in Etosha National Park and magnificent dunes of the Sossusvlei and Namib Desert in Namibia, to the scenic beauty of the Namaqueland region and ending in Cape Town.

Here is a selection of popular areas to visit in Zambia.

Livingstone

Named after the famous Victorian missionary explorer, Dr. David Livingstone, the Town was established in 1905. As a major European settlement, the town was made the capital of Northern Rhodesia in 1911. Sightseeing activities in Livingstone consist of: The Livingstone Museum which is the country’s biggest and oldest museum, dating back to the 1930’s.

South Luangwa

Experts have dubbed South Luangwa as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and not without reason. The concentration of game around the Luangwa River and its ox bow lagoons is among the most intense in Africa. The Luangwa River is the most intact major river system in Africa and is the life blood of the park's 9050km2.    The Park hosts a wide variety of wildlife, birds and vegetation. The now famous ‘walking safari’ originated in this park is still one of the finest ways to experience this pristine wilderness first hand. 

Here is a selection of the city hotels available in Zambia. For a full range of options throughout the region click on the the Experiences tab above.

David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa

Location: Livingstone

Situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, this colonial styled four-star lodge offers 72 well appointed river view rooms and five loft suites. The magnificent location offers guests the opportunity of experiencing a safari experience with the peace and tranquility of the river. With a state of the art conference centre, tropical swimming pool, restaurant, bar and spa, the lodge ensures that all guests needs are comfortably taken care of.

Departures Twin Single
Nov - Dec 11 $490 $710
Jan - Mar 12 $495 $640
Apr - Dec 12 $510 $655
Prices are per person in Australian Dollars for two-nights. Includes breakfast, sunset cruise and return airport transfers. Note: River levy of US$10 to be paid locally. Supplements may apply for sole travellers on certain departures. Extra night prices are available on request. Weekend and seasonal supplements can apply.

The Royal Livingstone

Location: Livingstone

On the banks of the great Zambezi River, is The Royal Livingstone. With its cool lounges and shaded verandahs, you will encounter the grace, elegance and sophistication of an earlier, more courteous age. Complete with personal butler, each of the 173 rooms are exquisitely decorated. A magnificent sun deck overlooks the Zambezi as it flows to the Falls, an ideal spot for late afternoon to enjoy the traditional “sundowners”, re-creating the ambience of bygone days.

Departures Twin Single
Nov 11 $710 $1,280
Dec 11 - Mar 12 $745 $1,345
Apr - Nov 12 $780 $1,395
Dec 12 $855 $1,530
Prices are per person in Australian Dollars for two-nights. Includes breakfast, National Park fees and return airport transfers. Supplements may apply for sole travellers on certain departures. Extra night prices are available on request. Weekend and seasonal supplements can apply.

The Zambezi Sun

Location: Livingstone

The Zambezi Sun is a favourite for fun-loving adventurers. This ethnic paradise is a world of activity and is the perfect venue for exciting and enriching getaways. Inspired by traditional Zambian architecture, the hotel echoes the diversity of the African wilderness. It is rustic and welcoming. The hotel has 212 rooms and plenty of activities for the whole family, from the children’s Kamp Kwena Club, to elephant back safaris and Zambezi River cruises.

Departures Twin Single
Nov 11 $360 $620
Dec 11 - Mar 12 $380 $650
Apr - Nov 12 $395 $675
Dec 12 $435 $740
Prices are per person in Australian Dollars for two-nights. Includes breakfast, National Park fees and return airport transfers. Supplements may apply for sole travellers on certain departures. Extra night prices are available on request. Weekend and seasonal supplements can apply.

Tongabezi Safari Lodge

Location: Livingstone

Tongabezi Lodge, privately owned and run, is a luxurious romantic hideaway on the banks of the Zambezi River upstream of the Falls. Offering a selection of five individually designed houses and six cottages, (the two-bedroom Garden House is ideal for families), each is beautifully furnished using local materials. The lodge combines an exclusive ambience with the warmth and hospitality of the local people. Safari trips are included, both on the river and in the bush, a perfect destination for honeymoons and an unforgettable experience for all.

Departures Twin Single
Nov - Dec 11 $1,030 $1,030
Jan – May 12 $1,070 $1,070
Jun – Oct 12 $1,265 $1,265
Nov - Dec 12 $1,070 $1,070
Prices are per person in Australian Dollars for two-nights. Includes all meals, local drinks (except premium brands), scheduled activities, laundry and return airport transfers. Supplements may apply for sole travellers on certain departures. Extra night prices are available on request. Weekend and seasonal supplements can apply.