Useful information

Visas

Citizens of most European and North American countries require tourist visas to enter Zambia. The easiest way to get a visa is to buy one when you arrive at your point of entry. Single entry visas cost $50 and multiple-entry visas are $85. These must be paid for in USD cash (with notes not older than 2006) and it helps to have the correct values.

Full information on visas is available from the Zambian Department of Immigration website.

Currency

The Zambian Kwacha is the currency of Zambia. Pretty much all shops, restaurants and bars will ask for payment in Kwacha but tour operators will often be happy to accept payment in USD, Euros, Pounds or Rand. Money can be easily exchanged at Bureaux de Change and banks in major towns like Lusaka, Livingstone and Chipata. ATMs are also quite widely available in towns, but may not always have money in them!

Credit/debit cards can be used in most major towns for payment and to withdraw cash. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card in Zambia; Mastercard is being recognised by more establishments, but there are some places where you will only be able to use Visa. Please be aware that most businesses will charge a 5 or 6% commission on card payments, as this is the charge levied by Zambian banks to process them.

Malaria

Zambia is in a malaria zone. We strongly recommend that you take anti-malaria medication wherever you stay in the country and that you speak to your medical practitioner before you travel to determine which type of medication is best for you.

Malaria carrying mosquitoes are always more active at dusk and after dark. At these times, try to always wear long sleeves and long trousers.it’s also really important to wear mosquito repellent at night and if you begin to feel unwell seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

Still have questions? Please feel free to drop us a line if there is any more information you need.