Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Zambia. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 3 blank pages in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
EMER: +(260) (0) 211-357-000; US Embassy Lusaka, Eastern end of Kabulonga Road, Ibex Hill Road, Lusaka, Zambia; ACSLusaka@state.gov; https://zm.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
260
Local Emergency Phone
999
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Zambia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical; modified by altitude; rainy season (October to April)
Currency (Code)
Zambian kwacha (ZMK)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, G
Major Languages
Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, Lozi, Chewa, Nsenga, Tumbuka, Lunda, Kaonde, Lala, Lamba, English
Major Religions
Protestant 75.3%, Roman Catholic 20.2%, other 2.7% (includes Muslim Buddhist, Hindu, and Baha'i)
Time Difference
UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Victoria Falls; Devil’s Pool; Zambezi River; Kafue National Park; Lusaka National Museum; Siavonga; Blue Lagoon National Park
Major Sports
Soccer, boxing, tennis
Cultural Practices
Always greet before starting a conversation, and if a person approaches you, offer the initial greeting. Men should withhold their hands when greeting a woman, until the woman offers her hands. Gifts are presented as a sign of honor, friendship or appreciation.
Tipping Guidelines
Tip 10% in restaurants. Tip guides directly at the end of a tour $5-10 (USD) per person per day.
Souvenirs
Wood and stone carvings, handmade pottery and glassware, basketware, batik fabric and decorative items; wrought iron sculptures and copperware; carved tribal items including masks, drums, and animals; beadwork and handmade jewelry; local gemstones
Traditional Cuisine
Nshima — a dough-like porridge made from ground maize used to scoop up side dishes (ndiwo) such as soups, stews, sauces, or relishes
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Thursday, September 21, 2023
