Zambia

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Internet Access/Cafes | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

Although Zambia lies within the tropics, much of the country has a pleasant climate because of high altitude. Both temperature and rainfall are closely affected and moderated by the altitude of the terrain. Temperatures are highest in the valleys of the Zambezi, Luangwa and Kafue rivers and by the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mweru and Bangweulu.

There are wide seasonal variations in temperatures and rainfall. The highest temperatures come before the rains. October is the hottest months, being humidity and cloudy with thunderstorms caused by moist air from the east. The main raining season starts in mid-November, with heavy tropical storms lasting well into April. The Northern Province has a rainfall of from 30 - 36 inches. May to middle of August is regarded as the cool season, after which temperatures rise rapidly. September usually is very dry.

Livingstone has a hot climate, with extreme temperatures of 40.6°C (105°F) and -3°C (27°F) and an annual rainfall of almost 30 inches. From May to July the weather is perfect. Lusaka at 4,100 ft, has extreme temperatures of 39°C (100°F) and 5°C (41°F) and an average annual rainfall of 45 inches.

Climate Chart for Lusaka

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

The Zambian Government have decided that they will no longer be offering a visa waiver for those pre-booking safaris in Zambia and that travellers will have to pay for their visas either before or on arrival in Zambia.

You may be asked to show you have sufficient funds to support your stay. Passports must be valid for at last six months after your intended departure date.

NB: Visa requirements change fairly regularly so it is advisable to check with your Consulate or Embassy.

Listing of Zambian Tourist offices and/or embassies located around the world

MONEY

Official Currency:    Kwacha=100 ngwee
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

The major Credit cards are widely accepted. Travellers cheques are best taken in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars. Many lodges, and our businesses prefer payment in hard currency or travellers cheques.


BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:    Monday to Friday: 0815-1430
Shops:     Monday to Friday: 0800-1700     Saturday: 0800-1300

Barclays Bank Cash Machine Locations

LOCAL TIME

Zambia is two hours ahead of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	International Flights to Zambia Click for flights from Europe with BA.com Domestic Flights Proflight Commuter Services: only airline that can be booked through any IATA travel agent worldwide. domestic airline operating scheduled services to tourist and business destinations in Zambia. In June 2006 we will begin regional flights to South Africa and Botswana. We also offer charter services to any destination in the region. We have the largest fully owned fleet of twin engine aircraft in the country Zambian Airways and Airwaves operate domestic flights to most the major towns. There is a small departure tax payable on domestic flights.
Train:	The country's main line runs from Kitwe to Livingstone via Kapiri, Mposhi and Lusaka.
Bus:	There are bus services to most the major towns covered by several operators. Most of these are crowded and unreliable. There are plenty of taxis in the towns but be sure to agree a price in advance. Intercape Mainliner Luxury Inter City Transport provider covering Southern Africa. Travel in the lap of excellance with Intercape Mainliner. Scandinavia Express Services Cross border Bus Service between Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia
Self Drive / Car Hire:	The Africa Guide's recommended Map Zambia International Travel Map   (Maps Worldwide) Published by ITMB Publishing Ltd Series Africa Sheet map English text Publishing specialise in areas that are interesting, exotic and off the beaten track - the maps are light, practical and should be invaluable for the backpacker, traveller or tourist. Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	There is a fairly good network of roads, but some are in poor condition. Driving is on the left hand side and an International Driving Licence is recommended. There are numerous local and international car hire firms

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Zambia, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.
	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....
	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .
	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.