Guide to Zambia

Full name: Republic of Zambia

Population: 11.9 million (UN, 2007)

Capital: Lusaka

Major Cities: Chingola, Kabwe, Kitwe, Lusaka, Ndola

Area: 752,614 sq km (290,586 sq miles)

Major language: English (official), Bemba, Lozi, Nyanja, Tonga

Major religions: Christianity, indigenous beliefs, Hinduism, Islam

Currency: 1 Kwacha = 100 ngwee

Internet domain: .zm

International dialling code: +260

Flying Time: Around 11-12 hours from the UK

Time Zone: GMT/UTC +2

Voltage: 230V 50Hz

Weights and Meaures: Metric

Climate: Zambia has a temparate climate with three distinct seasons. The dry season starts mid-April to August. Temperatures drop at night but during the day will enjoy a lush and verdant landscape. The hot season lasts from September to mid November, and offers the best wildlife viewing. The wet season lasts from mid-November to mid-April. Temperatures climb up to 29 to 30°C (84-86°F) during the day with quite cold nights throughout the year.

Best time to go: Wildlife spotters should make their way during August to October. The weather is hot 32°C (89°F) during the day and visibility of animals is high. For more lush pastures and cooler temperatures visit in the dry months during May to August but due to blooming vegetation, visibility of animals may be more difficult as they have more places to hide. However accommodation prices are more attractive. In the rainy season from November to April some national parks are closed, but those that are open offer you almost exclusive viewing. At this time some roads are impassable. Bird watchers will have a good time all year round.

Health: It is essential that you seek travel medical advice from your doctor or travel clinic at least 5 weeks before travel so that any vaccinations required have time to take hold. A vaccination for Yellow Fever (spread via mosquito bites) is required and you may be asked for a certificate of proof when you arrive at Zambia. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Polio, Hepatits B and Malaria tablets.

Entry/Visa: All visitors to Zambia need a valid passport, with at least six months left from date of entry with plenty of blank pages for visas and entry stamps. Visitors also need a visa. As from January 2008 the cost of a visa for UK passport holders has risen to £70. Also the 'visa waivers' system which gave free entry for most UK travellers on pre-arranged safari holidays with tour operators has been abolished. Multiple entry visa is now £240. You can get your visa before you go.

More information from Zambian High Commission 020 7589 6655 or pay when you get there.

11 March 2008