Things to think about before you visit Zambia !

Travel Insurance:

This is absolutely 100% essential ! Emergency Health insurance as well as general insurance travel cancellations and for loss or theft of cameras and other personal items. We will be happy to provide a quote for you.

Visas:

Visitors visas are easily obtained from any port of entry but it is important to check with the Zambian High Commission or Embassy ( UK - www.zhcl.org.uk ) at least one month before you travel. As a bonafied tourist on a pre-arranged package it is usualy possible to arrange a visa fee waver with Zambian immigration, however this is not 'automatic' and can be denied. We will try assist you if we can.

Currency:

The official currency in Zambia is the Kwacha, but the US dollar is the main currency used by all Safari Lodges & Hotels. As a tourist you would be expected to use US $. Banks will exchange English Pound's, Euros and SA Rand's for Kwacha which you will require for souvenirs, tips and sundries. Credit cards are accepted in many safari lodges, hotels & shops - but not all so check with us before you travel. Exchange rates are based on the Bank of Zambia rate on the day but as a guide line please visit: www.xe.com

Medical:

There are no specific Medical requirements for entering Zambia. However, Malaria is rife throughout Zambia and anti-malaria medications are a MUST (We recommend 'MALARONE'). Bring insect repellant to keep away Tsetse flies during the day ( in some parks only ) and mosquitoes at night. Always bring plenty of sun cream, even in the cool season the sun will burn. Also remember that AIDS is prevalent in Central Africa and so ALWAYS take precautions. Consult your Doctor before you leave for further advise. Always ask if 'tap' water is safe to drink - bottled water is widely available.

Climate:

Zambia is about 3000-4000 ft above sea level with a pleasantly mild tropical climate nicknamed by the Americans as the 'air-conditioned Africa' (20-25 degrees C). The evenings can get quite chilly especially between May and August as low as ( 10 degrees C ). The rainy season is normally from November to March, October is very hot (35 degrees C) and humid but as it falls at the end of the dry season, this is when most game viewing is at its best.

Clothing:

Wear neutral colours with a good pair of light walking boots for game viewing. A body belt for money and valuables is necessary if you are visiting any towns. Most evenings are spent around a camp fire or open air dinning with candle light under the stars, so a light Jacket or jumper is a good idea to keep the chill off . Nocturnal game viewing drives in open vehicles, especially in June / July can be very cold so a warm jacket & trousers are needed. A shady hat is also essential especially for children.

Security:

Away from the towns and certainly in all camps & lodges, your personal belongings are generally safe from theft - many tents do not have locks anyway. All the camps, lodges and hotels provide 'safe keeping' at reception. In the towns, petty theft from street vendors & hustlers is prevalent and obvious tourists are targeted - so be alert at all times and by simply taking sensible precautions, your trip will be safer i.e. never move about alone, keep cameras and valuables hidden etc.

Time:

Zambia is 1 hour ahead of Central European Time and 7 hours ahead of Eastern USA time - other than that - RELAX - there's no rush in Africa !!!

Communications:

The Telephone system in the main towns are generally very reliable. In the Bush communications are normally by SAT phone or radio, Email is available almost anywhere - even in the bush ! Allow 2-3 weeks for Airmail letters & postcards.

Law:

The law in Zambia is based on 'English Law' with minor alterations. Criminal & Court proceedings are similar in most ways - the rule is - if its against the Law in the UK the same applies in Zambia no matter what people may say; the use of ANY & ALL drugs are against the law. DO NOT BREAK THE LAW in Zambia - its not much fun as Zambian Prisons are not very comfortable ! Do NOT accept items from anyone to carry back to the UK. If you are unsure about anything - ask your Guide or Safari Company Representative.

Any Questions ?

Please feel free to Contact Us if you have any queries