Facts about Zambia

Facts about Zambia

Facts about Zambia. Zambia is a landlocked country located in the Southern part of Africa bordered by Tanzania in the North East, Malawi in east, D.R.Congo in the North, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana to the South and Angola to the West.

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Zambezi River is where this country acquires its name Zambia but according to history this country was referred to as Northern Rhodesia. The capital city of Zambia is Lusaka and it’s the main business center in the country. In terms of political administration, Zambia is divided into 10 provinces but may change that is so far Muchinga, Western, Lusaka, North Western, Northern, Copperbelt, Luapula, Central, Southern, and Eastern 

The presence of the magical Victoria Falls one of the 7 natural wonders of Zambia brings the country to the list of almost all adventure seekers’ bucket list world over. Other safari attractions that Zambia boasts include Lake Kariba the largest man made lake in the world, South Luangwa National Park, and much more

The area of Zambia is about 752, 618 square kilometers of Land and about 1% water. According to the 2021 population census of Zambia, about 19,473, 000 people are living in this country.

Climate of Zambia

In general, the climate of Zambia is an arid country receiving warm and less humid conditions across the country. Rains are seasonal and their patterns and timing vary from place to place. The variation in temperatures differs because of altitude.

The central and southern parts of Zambia experience generally tropical climate. Zambia generally has two prominent seasons that is the dry season normally May, June, July, August, September, and October. During the dry season, there is the cool dry season which is May to August and hot dry in September to October.

The wet season is normally November to April with the annual average rain ranging from 400mm to 1500 mm. The highest rains are received in Northwestern and North Eastern Zambia. The Far southwestern, Luangwa River and middle Zambezi River receive generally drier climate conditions

The average temperatures of Zambia range from 5 degrees centigrade in the winter season and 30 degrees centigrade in the hot seasons.

Culture and Language

Zambia is a multicultural country with more than 72 languages spoken in the country however English the official Language spoke in this country. The native languages spoken in Zambia include Lozi, Luvale, Bemba, Tonga, Nyanja, Konde and others. Out of the so many Native languages spoken in Zambia, the most spoken are Bemba and Nyanja.

Brief Historical facts about Zambia

Zambia was part of Northern Rhodesia and was a colony of Great Britain until 24th October 1964. The pioneer African Leader of Zambia was Kenneth Kaunda who ruled the country for about 27 years. After 1991, the country undertook a referendum where multi party democracy was unanimously voted by the locals and the country went into multiparty dispensation to date.

Economy of Zambia

Copper was the foreign exchange earner of Zambia until the 1970s when world over process went low. This created a period of extreme poverty within the country and these effects are still felt today. Agriculture is currently picking up as Zambia’s main foreign exchange earner. Copper is still a selling good for Zambia although not as huge as in the 1960s.

Currency of Zambia

Zambian Kwacha ( ZMW) is the local currency used in Zambia but other foreign currencies can also be used where applicable like the Pounds, US Dollars, Canadian Dollars and others. While on the ground in Zambia, it is best to use the local currency in case of any transactions. Visitors to Zambia may exchange foreign currency at banks, Forex Bureaus, authorized hotels and other recommended means.

Although credit cards may not be a common means of exchange while on the ground in Zambia where it is applicable, you may make use of this service too like at hotels, lodges, tour companies, Banks and others.

Calling Code for Zambia

The calling code for Zambia is +260

Transport means To and in Zambia

Road transport is the main means to use within Zambia although do not expect a smooth ride because of the bumpy and dusty road especially in the countryside.

Air transport is also another means to get into Zambia with the main international Airport as Kenneth Kaunda International Airport. Other airports of Zambia include Mfuwe International Airport, Solwezi Airport, Kasompe Airport and others. You may also charter to the different safari destinations of Zambia but prior arrangements must be made in advance. Get in touch with us to organize your transport means in Zambia.

What Tourism Attractions to see in Zambia?

Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls are Some of the eye captivating falls in the world and are part of the 7 natural wonders that the world celebrates. This curtain of falls is the largest of its king in the world and are at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Victoria Falls cover are 1708 meters wide standing at an altitude of about 915 meters above sea level.

Locally these falls are called Mosi Ou Tonya by the Lozi and Kololo natives who are the indigenous people living in this area but when the early explorer David Livingstone visited these falls, he named them the Victoria Falls after by them reigning Queen Victoria.

Because of the uniqueness of the geological formation of Victoria Falls and ecological importance, UNESCO named them as a World Heritage site. The falls are also a habitat for some unique bird species including Black Eagle.

Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba is the largest Manmade Lake in the world and from it Hydro Electricity power is generated. The lake is located at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Lake Kariba is 226 kilometers long and 40 kilometers wide. From Lake Kariba, you may spot a number of Nile Crocodiles and schools of Hippos.

Locals also engage in fishing on Lake Kariba.

Lake Tanganyika

A part of Lake Tanganyika the deepest Rift Valley Lake in Africa is in Zambia.

South Luangwa National Park

If you are yarning for exciting game safaris in Africa where you may spot the big five, South Luangwa National Park is the finest destination to choose from. More than 400 animal species make their way around this game park. During the game drives on the tracks of South Luangwa National Park include herds of elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, bushbucks, warthogs, lions, rhinos, leopards, wild dogs and others.

In this park, you have an opportunity to also locate the rare black rhinos.  A variety of birds are residents of South Luangwa National Park.

When Is The Best Time To Book A Safari To Zambia?

Even though the Zambian Safaris are open all year, the dry season is best preferred. The dry season allows quicker movement in the National Game Park tracks. The grass is generally lower in the dry season permitting clearer and quicker visibility of wildlife in the game parks.

The peak tourism season that is June to September and December to January is normally the dry season and it is coupled with high demand for safaris to Zambia. The accommodation options available in and out of the national Parks run out for last minute safari bookings.

To be on the safe side, in case you wish to visit Zambia for a safari in the peak season, it is best to book yours in advance plus related logistics. Contact us to organize your safari in advance.

The wet season that is March to May and October to November may receive less demand for safaris to Zambia but those wishing to have less company while on tour may take advantage of this period. The low season opens more opportunities for tourists on a limited budget to travel for a safari in Zambia.

During the low season, you may get chances to receive discounts from service providers like accommodation, transport and others in order for them to break even.

How Much Is The Cost Of Safari To Zambia?

The cost of safari in Zambia varies with the inclusions of your itinerary but where park fees are required, every tourist must pay no matter the safari package you travel. The park entrance fees help to support the work of conserving these Zambian Safari destinations.

At Encounter Africa Safaris, we quote our safaris according to Up Market, Mid-range and Basic. Our team of consultants are always on ground to help you plan your Zambia safari and also make the right quotation for your safari according to your needs and interests.

At Encounter Africa Safaris, we pride in over 10 years of organizing safaris in Africa and its this accumulated knowledge and experience that has won our position as one of the best tour companies in Africa.

Is Zambia Safe For Safaris?

In general, Zambia is a safe place for An African safaris destination but you also have to be mindful about your personal belongings. It is best not to carry your precious belongings in the open as you may attract the wrong company.

Try not to risk your life by trying to look below Victoria Falls and try to avoid this risk during the severe rainy seasons and you may tripe over and be carried by the strong water currents

While on game drive in South Luangwa National Park, follow the rules of the game safaris so that you are not hurt while in the park. Try not to get out of your vehicle while on the game drive because you may be savaged by carnivores in the park.

Stay on track while in this park so as not to land in the wrong points within the park.

Can I Swim At Victoria Falls in Zambia?

The velocity of Victoria Falls is heavy and so it is a dangerous place for anyone to swim in this water so keep some distance away from the falls. During the severe rainy seasons, the volume of the water at Victoria Falls increases which is quite scaring so maintain the rules given to you by the ranger guides to avoid accidents.

You may take photos from a strategic point at the Victoria Falls in Zambia but ensure you position yourself at the right point. Take as many photos as you can to keep as memories of your experience on a Zambia Safari.

What To Pack For Zambia Safari?

• You do not need to over pack but have what is relevant for your time on safari.
•  A pair of binoculars to capture a clear view of the surroundings and enjoy the stunning scenery
• Safari shoes especially if you have to walk as the ground is sometimes very hot and also your feet need to be protected from the rough surfaces in the wilderness.
• Insect repellant to keep away biting insects that may cross your way like tsetse flies
•  Swim suite in case your lodge has a swimming pool where you can relax after a long day in the wilderness.
• Safari hat or cap to protect your head from the dust and buzzing insects
•  First aid kit with emergency treatment
• Sunglasses to protect your eyes from buzzing insects.
• Some warmers because most safari destinations in Zambia experience cold conditions early morning and late afternoon.
• Safari wears in colors that are wilderness friendly in colors like khaki, tan and others. Try not to use colors that can attract stinging insects like blue, black and white.
•  Toiletries that your skin is comfortable with so as to avoid getting skin irritation.
• Extra batteries fully charged to exchange with in case you one runs low.
• Duffel bag so that you can carry your belongings in case you have to help yourself.
• Some cash to use for on ground purchases as credit cards are not easy to use in Africa because of the lengthy process of collecting money from them.
• Light Packing bag where to place your shoes after the Zambia safari in case you have to pack and leave.
• Snacks to munch on when you are on safari in case you get hungry.
• Simple backpack to carry in your belongings so that they do not scatter in the wilderness.
•  A camera to keep memorable moments while on safari in Zambia there many moments that happen.

Contact our team for more information about Zambia and to help you plan your safari to Zambia.