Zambia

about zambia

Zambia – Natural Adventure

On the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is the majestic Victoria Falls , one of the largest waterfalls in the world, originating on the Zambezi River. In these two countries, the landscapes of Victoria Falls are different, they vary according to the time of year and the water flow. So it is worth visiting Zambia and getting a new perspective, but no less charming.

The traveler will not find wildlife as pure and remote anywhere in the world as in the largest national parks in Zambia. Due to the more laborious accesses, they are not usually crowded with people, who likes to observe everything more calmly, this is the ideal destination. One of them is the Baixo Zambezi National Park, on the Zambezi River.

There is no shortage of options for tourists, from adventures to various types of safaris: photographic, in canoe, on the boat, on foot, in 4 × 4 vehicles. The small town of Livingstone , very close to the falls, is known as the adventure capital of southern Africa because it offers numerous outdoor activities. Those who like adrenaline can’t miss bungee jumping, rafting, kayaking or surfing below Victoria Falls waterfalls, scenic flights, walking with lions, cheetahs or riding elephants.

The world’s lowest population density is offset by so much natural wealth, scenery, wildlife and great cultural diversity. There are 70 different ethnicities, each with its own dance, language and strong tradition. Fabric art, malachite jewelry, wood carvings and soapstone are some of the local artistic specialties.

geography

The territorial extension of Zambia is 752 thousand km², equivalent to the sum of the areas of France, Holland, Belgium and Switzerland. The country is not bathed by the Ocean and borders the north and northwest with the Democratic Republic of Congo, the northeast with Tanzania, to the east with Malawi, to the southeast with Mozambique, to the south with Zimbabwe, with Botswana and Namibia to the southeast and Angola to the west.

Most of Zambia forms the High Plateau , elevation of land between 900 to 1,500 meters above sea level. Olago Tanganika is about 600 meters below the plateau, and the largest crevice, which contains the Luangwa River, is a serious obstacle to communications. The highest elevations occur in the east, where the Nyika Plateau , on the Malawi border, is generally greater than 1,800 meters, rising to 2,100 meters on the Mafinga hills.

In most parts of the country, ancient crystalline rocks are exposed, as a result of long erosion processes. In western Zambia, they are covered by young sandy deposits, due to the extensive Kalahari desert. In the central and eastern part of the country, depressions in the plateau form swamps or lakes (including Lake Bangweulu and Lukanga swamp). In more elevated regions, chains and isolated hills comprise the most resistant rocks, however, they gently punctuate the horizon.

With a population of around 14 million , many parts of the country are sparsely populated. Much of the population is concentrated in developed areas, known as the Line of Rail , close to the railway line that connects Copperbelt with Lusaka , the capital, and with the border city of Livingstone.

vegetation

Zambia’s vegetation is classified into four main types: closed forests, open forests, termites (termite mounds) and pastures.

The vegetation is mainly miombo woodland , cut by flood plains along the drainage lines. Miombo is the Swahili word for Brachystegia , a tree genus that comprises a large number of species.

Some areas of miombo forest are replaced by other types of forest, such as dry or dense. Narrow strips of vegetation or moist forests appear along the water sources in wetlands in the north.

climate and best season for safari

Zambia’s altitude provides a temperate climate. There are three distinct seasons: dry, hot and rainy. The dry season (from mid April to August) has low temperatures at night and the landscapes are green and lush.

The warm season, between September and mid-November, is the most suitable for viewing wild animals, when vegetation is scarce . The rainy season, from mid-November to mid-April, is ideal for bird watching, although some camps and lodges in national parks are closed due to flooded roads. Precipitation is more abundant in the north of the country.

language

Although the majority of Zambians are of Bantu origin, the complex immigration patterns produced a wide linguistic variety.

English is the official language of the government and is used for education, commerce and the law . However, there are still seven national languages: Bemba, Nyanja, Lozi, Tonga, Luvale, Lunda and Kaonde, the last three being from the North-Western province.

visa

A visa an endorsement on a valid passport of a foreigner, which is confirmed by examination by an immigration officer at the port of entry, granting that person the authority to enter Zambia.

The validity of the visa is not the period in which the holder is entitled to remain in the country but a period within which the holder has to enter Zambia. As such foreign national are required to use other instruments offered by the Department to remain in the country legally.

You can find more information at: https://www.zambiaimmigration.gov.zm/for-visitors/

history

In the 12th century, the Shona people arrived in the area, then established the Mwene Mutapa empire, which included southern Zambia. In the 16th century, the peoples of Luba and Lunda , empires of Zaire , arrived to start small kingdoms. At the end of the 18th century, Portuguese explorers visited the territory. However, in the 19th century, instability was generated by migration and the slave trade organized by the Portuguese and Arabs.

In 1851, British missionary David Livingstone followed the Zambezi River in search of a route to the interior of Africa and with the hope of introducing the principles of Christianity and European civilization to combat the slave trade. In 1855, he reached the imposing waterfalls and named them Victoria Falls .

Great Britain established control over Northern Rhodesia in 1889 and began to administer the area using an indirect government system, which leaves power in the hands of local governments. But in the late 1920s, the discovery of copper in those lands attracted many European technicians and administrators to check mineral wealth up close. Decades later, in 1953, the British created the Central African Federation , composed of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Northern Rhodesia (today Zambia) and Nyasaland (Malawi).

During the 1960s, as many other African countries gained independence, nationalist Zambians opposed colonial forces, which resulted in a major campaign of civil disobedience and a modest but decisive conflict called Chachacha Rebellion . The claims against the government started to gain support and, in 1960, the UNIP ( United National Independence Party ) formed by Kenneth Kaunda was created to campaign for the independence and dissolution of the Federation. He denounced the Federation alleging that the rights of white settlers were promoted to the detriment of the indigenous African population. Three years later the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland was dissolved.

After achieving independence in 1964, Zambia inherited a British-style multiparty political system . Kaunda , as leader of UNIP, became the first president of the new republic. The other important part was the African National Congress (ANC), led by Harry Nkumbula. But Kaunda did not like the opposition and in a swift move in 1972, he dissolved the Zambian party ANC, created the “Second Republic”, declared UNIP the only legal party and declared himself the only candidate for president .

Kaunda remained in power for the next 27 years. His government was based on “humanism”, his own combination of Marxism and traditional African values. Public administration has increased and almost all private companies (including copper mines) have been nationalized. But corruption and maladministration, compounded by the drop in the global copper price, made Zambia one of the poorest countries in the world in the late 1970s . The economy continued to struggle to stay afloat as trade routes from Zambia to the coast were closed by neighboring countries (Zimbabwe and Mozambique), in retaliation for Kaunda’s support for various liberation movements in the region.

Zambia could have risen economically because of two important events. The first was the completion of the Tazara railway that connected the country to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in 1975. At that time, Zambia had free access to the coast and with zero tax, which would decrease its dependence on Rhodesia and Africa in relation to the import of products. The second moment was the independence of Zimbabwe in 1976, as Kaunda would no longer need to maintain the climate of war to help the neighboring country. Even so, the economy remained on the brink of bankruptcy in the 1980s: foreign exchange reserves were almost depleted; acute shortages of food, fuel and other commodities were common; and unemployment and crime rates have increased considerably.

It was only in 1991 that the multiparty constitution was approved and the MMD ( Multi-party Democracy ) party won the elections and its leader, Frederick Chiluba , became president. The restrictions in the law prevented Kaunda in the following elections and Chiluba was reelected in 1996 and 2001. In 1997, there was an attempted coup. In July 2000, the Environment Minister, Ben Mwila Expulso, of the MMD party was removed from the cabinet after announcing his intention to run for president in 2001.

Following allegations of election fraud, Levy Mwanawasa is sworn in as president in the midst of opposition protests over alleged fraud in the December 2001 presidential election. In February 2003, former president Frederick Chiluba is arrested and charged with corruption . The long trials were followed by postponements and procedural problems. In September 2004 alone, many corruption charges against Chiluba were dropped, but he was arrested again on six new charges. Mwanawasa is re-elected in 2006, but in August 2008 he dies, in a hospital in Paris, where he was being treated for the effects of a stroke. In November 2008, Vice President Rupiah Banda is sworn in as president after a tight electoral victory over the main opposition candidate, Michael Sata , who alleged fraud in the electoral process. In his government, Banda expanded relations with the Chinese government. Only in September 2011 did Michael Sata take office as the new president.

national parks

The wildlife conservation area covers 31% of the country’s area, with 20 national parks, 36 safari reserves and a bird sanctuary .

South Luangwa, Kafue and even Lower Zambezi (Lower Zambezi) are among the best safari parks in the world . Luambe and Lukusuzi Liuwa Plain, West Lunga, Sioma Ngwezi and Nyika Plateau have a lot of wildlife, but the parks are still underdeveloped. Mosi-oa-Tunya , near Victoria Falls, is considered a zoological park, as it has a well-managed population of wild animals, including: antelopes, elephants, giraffes and rhinos. However, it has no predators.

Isangano, Lavushi Manda, Lusenga Plain and Mweru Wantipa have never had management or facilities, in addition, wildlife is not abundant, but they are suitable for explorers and bird lovers . The most recent and scheduled to open in 2014 will be the Lusaka National Park ( Lusaka National Park ), on the outskirts of the capital.

South Luangwa National Park is about 700 kilometers northeast of Lusaka. The park covers an area of ​​9,050 km² and is considered one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Africa. Many animals inhabit the park, among them: elephants, hippos, buffalo, black rhinos, zebras, leopards, lions, all species of antelope, and a multitude of birds. It is also possible to see animals with nocturnal habits such as: jackal, leopard, serval, anteater species, civet, galagos, wild cat. Walking safaris can last up to 8 days, the hikes provide visitors with an opportunity to get close to the animals, photograph them and even study the local flora. There are also night safaris in 4 × 4 vehicles.

Kafue National Park , one of the most beautiful and scenic in Zambia, is about 200 km west of Lusaka and covers more than 22,000 km². It is the third largest park in Africa and one of the five largest in the world. It offers more than 40 species of wild animals, including, elephant, buffalo, zebra, several species of antelope, lion, leopard, hyena, hippopotamus, crocodile. It also has a rare small antelope, the Lechwe, almost extinct due to hunters and now found mainly in the Busanga plains. More than 400 varieties of birds are concentrated in the floodplains on the banks of the river. The Kafue River is ideal for fishing.

Lower Zambezi National Park covers 4,092 km² and is surrounded by three wildlife management areas: Luano (north), Rufunsa (east) and Chiawa GMA (west). These protected areas add up to 14,453 km² of wildlife and the entire national park covers 1.85 million hectares. Lower Zambezi is located on the north bank of the Zambezi River and attracts a lot of wildlife to its banks, there are elephants, hippos, buffalo, zebras, lions, leopards, several species of antelope and a wide variety of birds. The diversity of animals is not as great as in other large parks, but the opportunity to get close to animals, inside and outside the Zambezi canals, is spectacular. The park is in front of Zimbabwe’s famous Mana Pools reserve, so the entire area on either side of the Zambezi River is a wildlife sanctuary. Canoe safaris, on foot or night safaris in 4 × 4 vehicles and fishing expeditions along the river are popular and provide close-up viewing of animals in their natural habitat.

why zambia ?

The world’s largest waterfall on the Zambian side is also impressive. A point that offers a privileged view of Victoria Falls is through the Knife-edge bridge , where visitors can have the best view of the eastern waterfall, the main falls and even Boiling Point, where the Zambezi River turns and falls into the Batoka Gorge. Other strategic points are the Falls Bridge , Devils Pool and Lookout Tree , they provide panoramic views of the main fall.

Only on the Zambian side is it possible to hike parts of Victoria Falls between the months of May and October. Due to the years of erosion, many pools have been formed and one of them is located at the very tip of the great fall. It is a unique opportunity to have this contact with nature and see this show up close.

The tourist capital Livingstone , located very close to Victoria Falls, attracts adventurers because of its varied outdoor activities. It also offers accommodation for all styles and budgets, from luxurious hotels to the most economical inns.

One of the highest commercial bungee jumps in the world is in Zambia. An adventure with one of the most spectacular views in the world, it is 111 meters high over the Batoka gorge.

The Zambezi River rises in Zambia and is the fourth largest in Africa. To know the river up close is to discover the history of Africa . It gives life to the continent and guarantees the survival of fauna, flora and thousands of people in its 2,574 km extension. Navigating its waters or taking a car near it is unforgettable, the surrounding wildlife, the diverse scenery, vegetation and the incredible sunset will remain in the memory of tourists.

Zambia is well known as the paradise of ornithologists, scientists who study birds, as 740 species have already been registered in the country.

The country has remote and untouched beauties, with longer accesses, making it a great option for those who do not like to dispute space with many people. The safaris in its national parks and reserves are much more peaceful than in neighboring countries, but it is not surprising with majestic natural spectacles and great diversity of flora and wildlife.

In Zambia you have the unique opportunity in the world to walk alongside the cheetahs, with the help of a guide, in a conservation area.

Most of the country’s rivers and lakes offer great variety and excellent quality of fish, making fishing one of the attractions. The nation is the world destination for fishing for the goliath tiger fish, one of the largest predators of fresh water and known as the river monster . The country is also recognized for its excellent annual fishing competition on Lake Tanganyika .

There are 70 different ethnic groups in the country, with different lifestyles, traditions, language, history and culture . The wide smile and the satisfaction of receiving tourists in the local communities make all the difference in the tours.

It is worth knowing the local traditions and renowned initiatives in the country, including Vila Mukuni and the community center Tikondane . Both revert the profit from sustainable tourism to local communities. Vila Mukuni , with cultural heritage of more than 700 years, brings together more than 7 thousand people in simple structures. The sale of local handicrafts helps the community’s income.

what to wear ?

Zambia is known for excellent walking safaris, so choose comfortable, lace-up shoes. Don’t forget to wear a hat or cap, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses and carry binoculars.

Wear light clothes in neutral tones, such as khaki, olive green and brown, but not white because it will quickly become dusty. Avoid black and dark blue as they attract tsetse flies. Natural fabrics, like cotton or linen, are the best. Always carry a jacket for the late afternoon, evening and early mornings that are cold.

And if you are going to visit the country during the rainy season, a resistant coat that protects from the cold and rain will be very useful, as the rains are short but very heavy.

Women, especially, need to know that the dress style is conservative in Zambia, so knee-length clothing or longer pants and skirts are best for city wear .

transport

The main roads have good conditions for driving in large cities. But, when leaving them and arriving in the peripheral and rural areas, the routes already challenge the drivers. The asphalt roads are very good, but there are unexpected stretches full of holes. Most of the dirt roads are remote and the recommendation is to choose vehicles with 4 × 4 traction because there are sections in poor condition. But, avoid them after periods of rain.

Distances are long, buses are often slow and most roads have large holes, so traveling by bus and minibus in Zambia can tire even the toughest traveler .

Blue cars and minibuses are very popular and carry a certain amount of passengers. But it is not so suitable for tourists because drivers are reckless and most vehicles do not receive adequate and periodic maintenance. For shorter distances, it is best to use the taxi service recommended by the hotel or lodge.

Zambian lines and trains are in poor repair and services are often suspended. It is advisable to check at the tourist office in Lusaka before traveling. There are currently no regular passenger trains between Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and Livingstone, Zambia.

currency

The official currency is Zambia Kwacha, the code is ZMW and the currency symbol is ZK . A Zambian Kwacha is divided into 100 Ngwee. There are K100, K50, K20, K10 and K2 banknotes and K1, 50, 10 and 5 Ngwee coins.

Some stores, restaurants and the best lodges and campsites accept credit card payments, but Visa is the most accepted . The best currency to take to Zambia (in order of preference) are: US dollars, British pounds and South African rand. The currencies of most neighboring countries have no value in Zambia , except on the borders with those countries. The only exception is the Botswana pula , which can also be exchanged in Lusaka. Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 8:15 am to 3:30 pm and on Saturdays from 8:15 am to 11:30 am.

ATMs are available within Lusaka, Livingstone and other major cities in Zambia. Larger banks have ATMs that accept Visa but not MasterCard.

Travelers checks are accepted, although they are not used frequently. To avoid charging an additional exchange rate, travelers are advised to bring traveler’s checks in US dollars, Euros or Pounds. Even so, the banks’ recommendation is to take money for foreign exchange transactions.

important to know

Tap water in large cities is purified and safe to drink. In the most remote areas it is always recommended to boil it first, unless you are staying in a lodge or hotel where drinking water is already boiled. Bottled water is available in major cities.

Medical services are underdeveloped and only in Lusaka, Ndola and Livingstone is it possible to find something like Western standards . There are a number of small clinics in Lusaka that are better than general hospitals, but clinics in rural areas often have just the basics.

Gasoline and diesel can be easily obtained in all major cities, but scarcity can happen in very remote areas, so make sure that there is fuel to spare for emergencies. Otherwise, in emergencies, look for local markets that usually sell fuel.

The country’s voltage is 220V.

The internet connection is reasonable and some shopping centers have good access points.

travel insurance

We recommend purchasing reliable international insurance before boarding. It must cover sickness, accident, theft, air evacuation and hospital expenses. When visiting remote areas, emergency air coverage is essential, however there are two local medical rescue organizations.

malaria

There is a risk of contracting malaria in low-lying areas of the country, which include most good destinations for viewing wildlife.

In addition, take some precautions during the trip: use insect repellent, especially at night, mosquito nets and opt for long-sleeved clothes and pants, as your body will be less exposed to mosquito bites.

A vaccine against cholera, tetanus, hepatitis, typhoid fever is also recommended, in addition to the mandatory yellow fever vaccine for Brazilians. So plan ahead because many vaccines need weeks to start taking effect in the body.

curiosities

“Lobola” is the bride’s price , still widely practiced and is a sign of appreciation for the girl’s parents. In most tribes, the bride is taken to the man’s village the night before the wedding. Large quantities of food are prepared and homemade beer is brewed to celebrate the wedding. The whole village watches and the ceremony takes place with lots of singing, dancing and percussion.

At dinner, the guest must order the food, as it is impolite in Zambia for the host to offer it first. It is also inappropriate to refuse food.

Nshima is a slightly more consistent puree of cornmeal, it is present everywhere, from chic restaurants to simple communities. Nshima must be eaten in the hand .

Another meal is kapenta with chibwabwa, which is fried fish with pumpkin leaves. The drink to go with is kachasu, a typical corn distillate.

Taturan meat , similar to shrimp, is very popular locally and is also popular with tourists.

Many exotic berries are sold on the streets, they are different and with unique flavor. Anyone who likes to taste new flavors should try them.