Are you planning to visit Zambia? In spite of the numerous attractions in Zambia, the country is not one of the most popular tourist destinations. But that’s great news for you! It offers you a chance to personalize your experience and go home after having enjoyed your very own slice of Zambia. 

Home to a wide variety of big games, beautiful landscapes, alluring lakes, and the ultra-famous Victoria Falls, Zambia is not short of memorable destinations. 

Before you visit Zambia, you’ll most likely need an opportunity to get the lay of the land and understand some key features of the country, and this post offers exactly that. 

Safety

Zambia is one of the safest countries in Africa, with a very low crime rate. The violence of any kind also has a very low prevalence in the country. 

However, the country is poor, and you’ll need to be careful with the way you display your valuables. Even though the country is not overly conservative, if you’re a woman traveling alone, it’s best not to walk into local bars on your own. 

While the rate of armed robberies is pretty low, petty stealing and pickpocketing are still pretty rife. Don’t leave your car or room door unlocked under any circumstances, or you may come back to find everything missing!

Health Concerns

The HIV rate in the country is on the high side, so you should be on your guard against this. As much as possible, do not engage in unprotected sex. 

The tap water in the country is of dodgy quality, so, in order to avoid problems with your health, it’s best to drink exclusively bottled water. 

The country is practically crawling with vicious mosquitoes, as a result, the rate of malaria is pretty high. Use repellents as often as you can and wear clothes that cover every inch of your skin. 

Zambia has been able to overcome its Yellow Fever problem. 

Visa Requirements

To get into Zambia, you’d need a visa, except you’re from one of the countries that are exempt. Procuring a Zambian visa, however, is far from straightforward, with lots of processes involved. Nevertheless, most visitors from Western countries can get visas when they arrive at the country. 

The passport requirements are simple. Your passport must be valid at least six months before you arrive in the country. You don’t require a Yellow Fever vaccination record to get inside the country. 

People And Customs

Like most other African nations, Zambian are big on greeting. You should always open a conversation by saying hello and asking how they are. They’ll open up to you better that way. Zambians are also very friendly and warm, and they love holding hands and shaking hands.

Zambians afford white people a very high level of respect, which can be unsettling. While they are not particularly conservative, Zambians consider wearing mini skirts or shorts offensive, because Zambian men are very attracted to the sight of thighs. 

By the way, you shouldn’t point with your index finger while in Zambia. It’s considered to be a very vulgar act.