Things To Do
in Zambia
Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa known for its rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, much of which is found in its numerous national parks and safari areas. Its capital, Lusaka, is a bustling metropolis that contrasts sharply with the vast wilderness areas like the famous Victoria Falls—one of the largest and most renowned waterfalls in the world, located at the border with Zimbabwe.
Zambia's economy is largely based on mining, particularly copper, but tourism and agriculture also play significant roles in its development.
- "Muli bwanji" - How are you
- "Natotela" - Thank you
- "Bwanji" - Hello
- "Nanga" - Goodbye
- "Ndikufuna" - I want
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lusaka National Park. Enjoy a walking safari and spot various wildlife early in the day.
Head to the KabwATA Cultural Village to experience local crafts and heritage. Have lunch at a local restaurant that serves traditional Zambian dishes.
Wrap up your day at Manda Hill Shopping Mall for dinner and shopping. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch a movie.
Travel to Livingstone and visit the majestic Victoria Falls. Take in the stunning views and listen to the roar of the falls.
Go on a thrilling white-water rafting adventure on the Zambezi River. It's an exhilarating experience for the adventurous traveler.
Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Look out for hippos and other wildlife while sipping a drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural resources including copper, cobalt, and fertile agricultural land.
- Beautiful landscapes and wildlife, attracting tourism.
- A variety of cultures and languages, enriching social experiences.
- A stable political environment compared to some neighboring countries.
- Growing economy with opportunities for investment in various sectors.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment in some areas.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation and healthcare.
- Limited access to quality education for rural populations.
- Environmental issues such as deforestation and wildlife conservation concerns.
- Political and economic challenges, including inflation and currency instability.
Best Activities in Zambia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the breathtaking Victoria Falls and experience activities such as bungee jumping, ziplining, and gorge swinging.
Embark on a wildlife safari in South Luangwa National Park or Kafue National Park to see diverse wildlife including elephants, hippos, and big cats.
Enjoy a guided canoeing adventure on the Zambezi River, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting wildlife along the way.
Experience the adrenaline rush of white water rafting on the Zambezi River, known for its exhilarating rapids.
Explore the scenic beauty and diverse birdlife while hiking in the Blue Lagoon National Park located in the Kafue Flats.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zambia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zambia
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most iconic and breathtaking waterfalls in the world, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
Home to diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes, providing excellent opportunities for capturing the natural beauty of Zambia.
Known for its abundance of wildlife and picturesque scenery, offering incredible photo opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Food in Zambia
Zambia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The national dish of Zambia, nshima is a maize-based porridge that is served with grilled tilapia, creating a savory and satisfying meal. It's a staple on dinner tables and is commonly found in local eateries and restaurants across the country.
Must-Try!
Chibwabwa is a delicious dish made of pumpkin leaves cooked in a savory peanut sauce. It's a vegetarian-friendly option and can be found in traditional markets and local restaurants.
Ifisashi consists of greens like spinach or cabbage cooked in groundnut (peanut) sauce, often accompanied by a side of nshima. This dish can be found in local households and eateries, especially in the urban areas.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zambia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Soweto Market is one of the largest markets in Lusaka, offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, traditional ingredients, and street food stalls. Visitors can savor local favorites like grilled meats, roasted corn, and savory fritters known as 'vetkoek.'
Kulima Tower Market is a bustling hub of culinary delights where visitors can explore an array of street food, from savory meat skewers to traditional Zambian snacks like 'cabbage balls' and 'Ifisashi' wraps.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zambia, it is important to greet others with a handshake and a warm smile. It is considered respectful to greet people before engaging in any conversation or business transaction.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Zambian culture. It is important to show deference and listen attentively when elders are speaking. Additionally, using respectful language and gestures when interacting with elders is crucial.
When visiting rural areas or participating in traditional ceremonies, it is essential to dress modestly and respectfully. Wearing revealing clothing may be considered disrespectful, so it's important to dress modestly out of respect for local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zambia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zambia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zambia, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a tip of 10-15% at restaurants and to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers for exceptional service.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Zambia, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are also increasingly accepted in urban areas, but it's still advisable to carry cash. Mobile money services such as Airtel Money and MTN Mobile Money are also popular for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zambia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources; cooler temperatures and less rainfall make for comfortable travel conditions.
Lush vegetation, baby animals, fewer tourists, and good birdwatching; some roads may be impassable due to heavy rains.
Zambia at Night
Hiking in Zambia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park located along the Zambezi River, offering various hiking trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Famous for its walking safaris, this park features scenic hiking routes through diverse landscapes and rich wildlife.
One of the largest parks in Africa, Kafue offers a mix of hiking paths and wildlife encounters in its varied ecosystems.
Located near Livingstone, these trails provide breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls and surrounding landscapes.
A smaller, urban hiking option in Lusaka that offers well-maintained trails and views of local flora.
This park along the shores of Lake Tanganyika features remote hiking spots with opportunities for bird watching and unique ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zambia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Zambia by plane.
Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, this is the busiest airport in Africa and serves as a major international gateway.
Located in Harare, Zimbabwe, this is the primary airport serving Zimbabwe and a regional hub for flights in Southern Africa.
Located near Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, this airport serves international travelers visiting the famous natural wonder and surrounding region.
Located in Lilongwe, Malawi, this airport serves as the main international gateway to Malawi.
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, this airport is one of the busiest in East Africa and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Zambia, primarily found in the northern regions.
A significant ethnic group mainly located in the eastern regions, particularly in and around Lusaka.
Predominantly found in the Southern Province, this group is known for its agricultural practices.
Located in Western Zambia, particularly in the Barotse Floodplain, known for their rich cultural heritage.
Mainly found in central Zambia, this group has cultural ties to neighboring Malawi.
Located in the North-Western Province, known for their farming and fishing communities.
Found in the northwestern parts of Zambia, particularly in the Zambezi district.
Predominantly found in Eastern Province, known for their agricultural practices.
This group is associated with the Eastern Province and shares cultural practices with the Nsenga.
Includes various smaller groups such as the Ngoni, Bemba, and others.
The Soul of Zambia
Discover the essence of Zambia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Zambia, with a strong following and local leagues such as the Zambia Super League. The national team, known as Chipolopolo, has a passionate fan base.
Netball is widely played, especially among women in schools and communities. Zambia has a national women's netball team that competes in international tournaments.
Rugby has been growing in popularity, with a number of clubs and regional competitions. Zambia competes at various levels, including international matches.
Zambia has produced several notable athletes, particularly in middle and long-distance events. The country participates actively in regional and international athletics competitions.
Basketball is becoming increasingly popular, especially among the youth. Local leagues and school competitions are common, and Zambia has a national basketball team.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In urban areas like Lusaka, larger restaurants and cafes often offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as vegetable stews, salads, and plant-based burgers. However, in more rural or remote areas, options may be limited, and it's advisable to communicate dietary needs in advance.
While Zambian cuisine heavily relies on maize-based staples, individuals seeking gluten-free options can enjoy dishes like grilled meats, fresh fruits, and vegetable-based sides. It's recommended to inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure a gluten-free meal.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zambia.