Zambia Safari Travel FAQ: Your Complete Guide for UK Travellers
Visa & Travel Documents
Do I need a visa to visit Zambia from the UK?
No, British nationals do not need a visa to enter Zambia for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months from your date of entry with at least 2 blank pages.
What is the KAZA Univisa?
The KAZA Univisa costs US$50 and allows travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, plus day trips into Botswana. It's valid for 30 days and available at: • Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls airports • Victoria Falls (Zambian border) and Kazungula (Botswana border) land crossings
Do I need special documents for honeymoon packages?
Yes, newlyweds may need to present an original wedding certificate or certified copy at hotels to access honeymoon packages and rates.
Health & Vaccinations
What vaccinations do I need for Zambia?
Yellow fever vaccination is only mandatory if arriving from an infected area. However, there is a low risk in parts of Zambia - consult your GP about whether vaccination is recommended for your specific itinerary.
Malaria prophylaxis is essential as malaria is virulent in low-lying areas where most wildlife destinations are located. Speak to your pharmacist or GP about the most suitable antimalarials, as drug resistance varies.
Is the water safe to drink in Zambia?
Major towns: Tap water is purified and safe to drink. Remote areas: Always boil water first, unless staying at lodges/hotels where it's already treated. Bottled water is readily available in larger towns and at accommodations
What about prescription medications?
Pack all medications in hand luggage with backup supplies. Customs officials may request prescriptions for any medication you bring. Check with the Zambian embassy about the legal status of specific medicines, as UK regulations may differ.
Travel Insurance & Safety
Do I need travel insurance for Zambia?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is compulsory for all holidays. Your policy must cover: • Medical expenses and emergency evacuation • Cancellation and curtailment • Lost or damaged baggage • Personal liability
Lucie Thaxter Safaris cannot be held liable for personal injury, illness, or loss of belongings.
How can I stay safe from theft?
Never leave valuables unattended in vehicles, use hotel room safes or central hotel safes, be aware of pickpockets in major towns and keep cash, cameras, and jewellery secure at all times
Flights & Luggage
What are the luggage restrictions for safari flights?
Light aircraft transfers have strict limits:
15kg maximum in soft bags only
5kg hand luggage allowance
Maximum bag size: 65cm x 30cm (fits Cessna 206 aircraft)
No hard suitcases - they won't fit in small aircraft
Are there departure taxes?
International flights: US$25 (usually included in ticket price)
Domestic flights: US$8 (usually included)
Airport Development Fee: Approximately US$7 in cash at departure
Money & Currency
What currency should I bring to Zambia?
US Dollars in small denominations are recommended. The local currency is Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) with notes of K100, K50, K20, K10, K2 and coins in K1, 50, 10, and 5 Ngwee.
How do I access money in Zambia?
ATMs: Available in Lusaka, Livingstone, and major towns
Credit cards: Visa more widely accepted than Mastercard or Amex
Remote camps: Take cash (Kwacha) as card facilities may be limited
Victoria Falls area: Some credit cards charge high commission
Warning: Avoid black market currency exchanges at borders - they're notorious for fraud.
What to Pack & Wear
What clothing should I pack for a Zambia safari?
Neutral colours (khaki, beige, olive) are best. Avoid black, blue, navy, and red as these attract biting insects.
Winter months (May-August): • Thick fleece or down jacket for chilly mornings/evenings • Temperatures can drop to 6°C
General packing: • Informal clothing suitable everywhere except 5-star lodges (smart casual required) • Layers for temperature variations throughout the day
Can I use electrical appliances?
Voltage: 220-240V with plug types C, D, and G Important: Hairdryers cannot be used at camps with generators, but battery charging is fine.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
What's Zambia's climate like?
Zambia has three distinct seasons:
December-April (Wet season): • Warm temperatures 25-35°C • Expect torrential afternoon downpours
May-August (Dry/Cool season): • Cooler temperatures 6-24°C • Best for wildlife viewing
September-November (Hot/Dry season): • Hottest period • Excellent for game viewing as animals gather around water sources
Cultural Information
What language is spoken in Zambia?
English is the official language and most urban Zambians speak it fluently. However, there are over 72 local languages and dialects.
What about tipping on safari?
Tipping isn't expected but is always appreciated for good service:
Safari guide/driver: $15-20 USD per day (per person, per day)
Camp staff (collective): $10-12 USD per day total
Porters: $2-3 USD per bag
Boat crew: $5-8 USD per person for the activity
Always give tips to management for fair distribution amongst the team.
What's the time zone?
GMT +2 hours (GMT +1 during British Summer Time)
Need More Help?
For immediate assistance during your travels or any concerns about accommodation and services, contact:
• Email: hello@luciethaxtersafaris.com
Important: Address any issues with hotel/camp management immediately so they can be resolved on the spot.
This guide was last updated April 2022. Visa, health, and COVID-19 requirements change frequently - always verify current requirements with official sources before travel.
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