Zambia

Travel information

Basics

Zambia


Zambia is located in Eastern Africa.

Official language is English. Zambia uses metric system (kilograms, centimeters, °C). Time zone is UTC+02:00.

Sockets & plugs

Zambia uses 230V, 50Hz with sockets and plugs Type C, Type D and Type G.


Sockets & plugs - Type C
Type C
Sockets & plugs - Type D
Type D
Sockets & plugs - Type G
Type G

Money

Currency

Zambia uses the Zambian kwacha (symbol: ZK), code ZMW.

Banknotes come in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 kwachas. Kwacha is subdivided into 100 ngwees. Coins come in denominations of 1 kwacha and 50, 10 and 5 ngwees.


Tipping

Not expected, but can leave extra tip

Tipping is usually not expected in Zambia. However, if you are satisfied with the service provided you can show your appreciation by leaving a small ‘extra’ tip. Receipts might sometimes include a service charge. If there is a service charge there is no need to tip.


ATMs

Rare

Automatic teller machines (local name: ATM) are rare in Zambia. Your best bet is to look for them in large cities and community places.

You do not need a chip & PIN card to use an ATM — your standard magnetic card will work fine.


Communications

Internet

Internet speed in Zambia is on average 1.4 Mbps.

WiFi

WiFi coverage in Zambia is low. It is not as easy to find one.


Mobile phone

You can buy a SIM card for about 64.57 ZMW, which includes 1 GB of data plan. You can choose from 3 telecoms: Airtel, MTN or Zamtel.

Mobile phones

Zambia uses GSM mobile networks GSM 900 and GSM 1800.

Roaming

If you don't want to buy SIM card in Zambia upon arrival, make sure to check the roaming charges with your telecom provider before your departure so there are no surprises when you return home.

Dial code

+260

To call Zambia, dial +, then 260 (the country code for Zambia), then the area code (without the initial 0) and the local number.

International call
+ 260 21 1234567
Local call
021 1234567

For local calls within Zambia, start with the area code (with the initial 0). In the case above area code is 21 .

Health & safety

LGBTIQ+

Sexuality, marriage & acceptance

Homosexual practices are illegal in Zambia. Punishment includes imprisonment and a fine.

Same-sex marriage is illegal.

Homosexuality
Illegal
Marriage
Illegal

Vaccinations

Vaccinations listed are recommended

The following vaccinations listed for this country are recommended for your protection and to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.


Hepatitis A
Malaria
Polio
Routine immunizations
Typhoid fever

These apply only to select travelers or persons on work assignments.

Cholera
Hepatitis B
Rabies
Yellow Fever

Other