Why travel to
Zambia is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique African experience. With its diverse wildlife, spectacular landscapes and vibrant culture, Zambia offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the stunning Victoria Falls, witnessing a rare wildlife sighting in the Kafue National Park, or dancing in a traditional tribal celebration, Zambia has something to offer every traveler. With its friendly people, lively towns, and dazzling sunsets, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable African getaway.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Zambia is generally quite affordable. Most basic items like housing, food, and transportation in Zambia are much cheaper than in other countries, making it an attractive option for expats. The cost of rent is also quite low compared to some other countries. While some expats may choose to live in more expensive areas, the cost of living in Zambia overall is quite reasonable.
Safety
Yes, it is generally safe to travel to Zambia, though visitors should remain vigilant when exploring the country. It is advisable to take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, to ensure that your experience is as safe as possible.
Places to visit
- Victoria Falls: Located in the Zambia/Zimbabwe border, Victoria Falls is the most iconic attraction of the country, with its thunderous curtain of water cascading down the sheer cliffs of the Zambezi River.
- Liuwa Plain National Park: Located in the Western Province of Zambia, Liuwa Plain is Zambia's second largest national park and is home to the second largest wildebeest migration in Africa.
- South Luangwa National Park: Located in Eastern Zambia, South Luangwa is a stunning national park teeming with big game species such as elephants and lions.
- Livingstone Island: Located on the Zambia side of Victoria Falls, Livingstone Island offers a unique opportunity to go on a guided tour onto the edge of the Zambezi River and get close to the legendary Victoria Falls.
- Kafue National Park: Located in Central Zambia, Kafue is the largest national park in the country, home to wildlife such as zebra, lion, and giraffe.
- Kasanka National Park: Located in the Northern Province, Kasanka is the smallest national park in Zambia, and the only one situated in the wetland drains of the Bangweulu.
- Lower Zambezi National Park: Located on the banks of the Zambezi River, the Lower Zambezi National Park is one of the premier safari destinations of Zambia.
- Lake Tanganyika: Located in Northwestern Zambia, Lake Tanganyika is the world’s second deepest lake, home to an abundant variety of freshwater wildlife.
- North Luangwa National Park: Located adjacent to the South Luangwa National Park, the North Luangwa National Park is home to an array of wildlife species and is a great spot for game drives and walking safaris.
- Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: Located downstream from Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya is a spectacular national park home to a variety of conservation activities and animal experiences.
Food to try
- Chikanda: Chikanda is a traditional Zambian food made from peanut and flour paste that has been fried, then cut into small cubes and fried for a second time. It is typically served as a side dish, often with greens and other vegetables.
- Sima: Sima is a traditional dish of Zambia made with rice and vegetables. It is made with onions and tomatoes, garlic and ginger, and is often served with a side of hot sauce.
- Nshima: Nshima is a staple dish in Zambia, made with coarsely ground maize flour. It is traditionally served with a variety of side dishes, including vegetables, meats and fish.
- Kapenta: Kapenta is a small, silver fish found in the waters of Zambia. It is usually served as a fried snack, or as a dried, salted snack.
- Munkoyo: Munkoyo is a traditional Zambian soft drink made using maize and sorghum. It is usually fermented and sweetened, and served cold or over ice.
Souvenirs
- Recycled metal giraffe sculpture – This unique sculpture is made in Zambia from recycled metal and is perfect for any collector.
- Kitenge fabric – Unique hand-printed fabric that is made with wax-dyeing technique and is vibrant and colourful – perfect for decorating home and apparel.
- Wooden mask – One of the most popular souvenirs from Zambia, these masks are hand-carved from local woods and feature traditional symbols.
- Tribal jewellery – Ethnic jewellery made from beads, animal statues, shells, and other locally sourced materials, each piece is unique and embracing the Zambian culture.
- Batik art – Batik artwork is small pieces of wax-dyed fabric with intricate patterns, great as wall art or room decor.
- Mukula trees carvings – These intricate carvings of animals, vessels and other objects are crafted from the sacred Mukula tree with traditional tools.
- Copper wire wraps – Copper wire is hand-formed and weaved around stones or other materials to create intricate jewellery and decorative pieces.
- Tea or coffee baskets – Baskets filled with local teas and coffees, offering a great range of flavors and tastes.
- Leather bracelets – Traditional leather bracelet with intricate patterns and colourful beads, perfect for anyone looking for a tribal accessory.
- Embroidered hats – Hand-embroidered fisherman hats made from vintage fabrics in vivid colours make a perfect souvenir for anyone looking to remember Zambia.