Zambia
About
| Rich wetlands and breath-taking African sunsets contribute to Zambia's scenic splendour. A land blessed with 17 waterfalls including the spectacular Victoria Falls, the country attracts nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. The wild Zambezi River is perfect for adrenaline rush activities such as river rafting, canoeing safaris, river surfing and tiger fishing. Explore one of Africa's most spectacular surviving wilderness areas - the North Luangwa National Park and home to the beautiful Mwaleshi River, huge herds of buffalo and over 350 bird species. Livingstone is Zambia's centre for adventure sports. Bungee jump off the 111m bridge linking Zambia and Zimbabwe across the Zambezi River, or abseil or high-wire down or across the gorge. White-water rafting on the Zambezi is an exhilarating experience and first-timers are very well catered for. |
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| Capital: | Lusaka (LUN) |
| Currency: | Kwacha (ZMK) |
| Language: | English (73 local dialects) |
| Dialling code from SA: | + 260 |
| Time Zones: | UTC/GMT +2 (Same time zone as South Africa) |
| Side of the Road: | Left. South African drivers' licences are recognised in SADC countries (Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe). It is recommended that a letter of verification be obtained from the South African Department of Transport. |
| Best Time to go: | May to August |
| Best For: | Victoria Falls, Safari |
| Plugs: | 230 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin, round three-pin and square three-pin plugs are used. |
| Drinking Water: | Tap water in the major towns is purified and perfectly safe to drink. Outside of the main towns, water should be boiled before use. Hotels and Safari Lodges usually provide drinking water which is safe for consumption. Alternatively, bottled water is available. |
| Health: | Outside of the main towns, healthcare facilities are underequipped. It is advisable to carry basic medical supplies. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended and it should include emergency air evacuation coverage. |
| Customs: | Women should refrain from wearing short skirts and low-cut tops, and beachwear should be worn only on the beach. |
| Local Offences / Laws: | Overstaying a visa is a serious offence and may result in arrest and imprisonment. Homosexuality is illegal for men and women. |
| Duty Free: | The following items may be imported into Zambia by travellers over 18 years without incurring customs duty: • 400 cigarettes or 500g of cigars or 500g of tobacco. • 1.5L of spirits and 2.5L of wine and 2.5L of clear beer. • Goods to the value of US$500. |
| Prohibited Imports: | Prohibited items include counterfeit bank notes and coins, obscene material, pirated or counterfeit goods, prison-made goods, and alcoholic drinks containing noxious chemicals or extracts. Restricted items include fruit, vegetables, meat, livestock, parts of cadavers of wild animals like teeth, antlers, parts from the skeleton etc, plants, grain wheat and seed, medicines and drugs, minerals and precious stones, pets, firearms and ammunition. |
Issuing Authorities
The High Commission of the Republic of Zambia
570 Ziervogel str. off Hamilton str, Arcadia
Tel: 012 326 1847/97
E-mail:hc@zambiapretoria.net
Web: www.zambiapretoria.net
Monday to Friday – 09.00 to 17.00
Visa & Immigration Information: www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm
Online Visa Applications: eservices.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm
Public Holidays 2025: Jan 1; Mar 8, 12; Apr 18-19, 21, 28; May 1, 25-26; Jul 7-8; Aug 4; Oct 18, 24; Dec 25
Public Holidays 2026: Jan 1; Mar 8, 9, 12; Apr 3-4, 6, 28; May 1, 25; Jul 6-7; Aug 3; Oct 18-19, 24; Dec 25
Visa Requirements
Visas are not required by SA passport holders for a stay of up to 30 days for business and 90 days for a tourist visa.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
- Valid passport with 6 months validity & 3 blank pages
- Proof of return / onward passage
- Proof of funds
SA Representative
SA High Commission
26 D Cheetah Rd, Kabulonga, Lusaka
Tel: +260 211 265571
E-mail: lusaka.admin@dirco.gov.za
Web: dirco1.azurewebsites.net/zambia/
Travel Health
| Compulsory: |
Yellow Fever (dependant on country of origin / stopover) |
| Recommended Travel Vaccines: | Hepatitis A & B, Rabies, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio |
| Malaria Risk |
