Country Facts
Capital
Lusaka
Size
752,614 km²
Time Zone
GMT+2
Population
21,913,874
Currency
Zambian Kwacha
Discover Zambia – The Real Africa
Zambia is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets, offering visitors an authentic and unforgettable safari experience, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Known as the “Real Africa,” Zambia is celebrated for its warm hospitality, abundant wildlife, world-class national parks, and, of course, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls — one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
This landlocked country is crisscrossed by mighty rivers, vast lakes, and lush wetlands, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Zambia is the birthplace of the walking safari, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore the wilderness on foot, accompanied by expert guides. South Luangwa National Park is particularly famous for its walking safaris, as well as some of Africa’s most reliable leopard sightings.
Beyond its wildlife, Zambia boasts spectacular scenery — from the rugged escarpments of the Great Rift Valley to the serene waters of Lake Tanganyika and the unspoiled floodplains of the Lower Zambezi. The mighty Zambezi River, which forms the border with Zimbabwe, provides thrilling activities such as white-water rafting, canoeing, fishing, and sunset river cruises.
Zambia is home to 20 national parks and 34 game management areas, offering diverse safari experiences away from the crowds. Highlights include South Luangwa, Kafue — one of Africa’s largest national parks — and Lower Zambezi National Park, known for its canoe safaris and abundant wildlife.
For those interested in culture, Zambia’s 72 ethnic groups and colourful festivals offer rich insight into the country’s traditions, music, and art. Visitors can experience vibrant local markets, traditional ceremonies like the Kuomboka Festival, and genuine interactions with local communities.
With its untamed beauty, incredible wildlife, friendly people, and commitment to conservation, Zambia is perfect for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path African adventure without sacrificing comfort and safety.
Why Visit Zambia?
✔ Home to Victoria Falls – UNESCO World Heritage Site
✔ Exceptional wildlife and birdwatching
✔ Birthplace of the walking safari
✔ Remote and uncrowded national parks
✔ Adventure activities on the Zambezi River
✔ Warm, welcoming local culture
✔ Excellent lodges and camps immersed in nature
Preparing For A Trip To Zambia?
Zambia Visa Information
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Zambia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Zambia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Zambian High Commission in the UK.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Zambia, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. It must have at least 2 blank pages for entry stamping.
Make sure you get your passport stamped.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Dual nationality
Zambia recognises dual nationality. However, to avoid delays at the airport you should leave Zambia on the same passport you used to enter.
Visa requirements
British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Zambia. You must be able to show:
- valid return or onward tickets
- enough money for your stay
Tourists may remain in Zambia for a total of 90 days in any 12 month period. For business visitors the maximum stay in Zambia over a 12 month period is 30 days.
For further information, email the Zambian High Commission at info@zambiahc.org.uk or contact the Zambian Department of Immigration.
KAZA UNIVISA
The KAZA UNIVISA, for use in the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, is valid for unlimited travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe and for day trips to Botswana. It costs 50 US dollars and is valid for 30 days.
You can apply online in advance, or get the visa on arrival if you are arriving at:
- Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Lusaka
- Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport, Livingstone
- by land at Livingstone, Victoria Falls (Zambia-Zimbabwe border)
- by land at Kazungula (Zambia-Botswana border)
Departure tax
On leaving Zambia, all air passengers must pay the equivalent to 25 US dollars for international travel and a security charge of 3 US dollars for domestic travel. Both charges are normally included in the cost of an air ticket, but you will have to pay in cash with Zambian kwacha if they are not.
Read More On Visas
Zambia Tourism Health Information
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Zambia
- where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Zambia including:
- yellow fever
- malaria
- dengue fever
- cholera
- mpox
The UNAIDS Zambia country progress report of 2020 estimated the overall HIV prevalence in the adult population is 11%, compared to a prevalence of 0.2% in adults in the UK. Take normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Zambia
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Zambia.
Medical facilities throughout Zambia are of a lower standard than in the UK. Facilities in rural areas are basic and emergency services are limited. Carry basic medical supplies. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
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Read More On Health
Zambia Weather & When To Go
Zambia – Weather & Best Time to Visit
Zambia enjoys a classic Southern African climate with three distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences for visitors. The country’s climate is generally warm and sunny, with regional variations influenced by altitude and proximity to rivers and wetlands.
Seasons at a Glance:
Dry Season (May to October) – Best Time to Visit
This is Zambia’s winter and peak safari season. Days are warm and sunny with little to no rainfall, while nights and early mornings can be cool, especially in June and July. Wildlife viewing is at its best during this period as animals gather around rivers and waterholes, and vegetation is sparse, making sightings easier.
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May to August – Cooler and dry; excellent for walking safaris and big cat sightings.
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September to October – Hot and dry; fantastic game viewing but temperatures rise significantly, especially in the Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa.
Green Season (November to April) – Emerald Beauty & Birding
The rainy season transforms Zambia into a lush, green paradise. While some remote lodges close due to impassable roads, this period is perfect for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in large numbers. Landscapes are stunning, and photographic opportunities abound.
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November to December – Hot with the first rains; dramatic skies and great birdlife.
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January to March – Peak of the rainy season; some areas inaccessible, but ideal for photographic safaris and birding.
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April – Rains ease, landscapes are vibrant, and temperatures become more pleasant.
Victoria Falls – When to Go
Victoria Falls is impressive year-round, but its appearance changes with the seasons:
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February to May – The Falls are at their most powerful after the rainy season, with dramatic spray and thunderous water flow.
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June to August – Still impressive with good visibility, less spray for clearer views.
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September to December – Water levels drop; ideal for exploring the rock pools and seeing the geological structure of the Falls.
Summary: Best Time to Visit Zambia
✅ For Wildlife Safaris: May to October
✅ For Birdwatching & Lush Scenery: November to April
✅ For Victoria Falls in Full Flow: March to May
✅ For Lower Water Levels & Unique Falls Views: August to December
No matter the season, Zambia offers authentic African experiences for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Read More On Weather
Tailor-Made Holidays
At Earth Trip we will design and plan your personalised itinerary according to the exact requirements of your trip. Whether you prefer to be on a mountaintop or under a waterfall; wake up in the middle of a jungle or have a picnic with locals in the tea plantations – we select the accommodation and activities in order to suit not only your preferences, but also your budget.
Discover Tailor-Made Holidays