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Following are
the most frequently asked questions regarding travel to Zambia.
What are the entry requirements into Zambia?
Visas are available upon arrival at the Lusaka airport for about $100. This
was raised from the former price of $40. It is, of course, subject to change. Your
passport must be valid for at least six months past your date of exit from Zambia.
Certain vaccinations are required as well. Be sure to check with your nearest Zambian
embassy for latest requirements before planning your trip and allow plenty of time
for your vaccinations.
What language do the people speak in Zambia?
The national language of Zambia is English. It is taught in schools, and is
used in government offices, television, radio and newspapers. There are over 70
different ethnic groups, each with their own language. Njanja is the most
common language spoken among the various tribes. Tonga is the main group in the
Mazabuka area. As you travel into rural areas communication becomes more difficult.
Proper greetings are important to Zambians - with “How are you?”, even if you don’t
really care! They will consider you respectful.
What is the weather like in Zambia?
Because of its high altitude, Zambia enjoys a subtropical climate. The average temperature
in July, the coldest month of the year, is 61. January is the hottest month with
an average temperature of 70. There are three distinct seasons in Zambia. From May
to August you will find it to be cool and dry. September to November is hot and
dry, and it is
hot and rainy between December and April.
What is Mazabuka like?
Mazabuka is a town in the Southern Province of Zambia, southwest of Lusaka. It is
the sugar capital of Zambia. Most of Zambia is desperately poor, with GNP per capita
about $400 per year. Zambia has not experienced the violent ethnic strife that some
countries have experienced.
How will I communicate with friends and family back home?
Mazabuka has internet cafes! Electricity is sometimes unreliable, so there's no
guarantee that you will have internet access daily. Service can be quite slow.There
are “Pay Phones”, which basically means someone has
set up a wooden booth and you
can pay them to use their cell phone. You can always purchase your own in Mazabuka
as well.
Are there electricity and plumbing where I will be staying?
Teams traveling to Mazabuka stay in a very comfortable lodge. Yes, there is electricity and
hot water showers. Note that the electricity is 220, so you will want to bring
an converter with you if you are planning to use electric appliances like hair dryers or razors.
What about money?
The currency in Zambia is the Kwacha. You can exchange money at the airport. Mazabuka
has several banks where you can also exchange money. ATM’s do exist in Mazabuka
as well, but they are not dependable. Very few shops in Mazabuka accept debit or
credit cards. Most places will accept Traveler’s Checks, but the exchange rate is
poor.
 Are there any stores or restaurants in Mazabuka?
Not really. There are two relatively nice grocery stores and a couple of hardware
stores. Our teams do a major shopping trip in Lusaka the day we arrive. That is
the best time to pick up anything you may have forgotten to bring. Most shopkeepers
advertise fixed prices and are unwilling to negotiate. Street vendors and taxi drivers
are usually willing to negotiate. Don’t be afraid to barter. There is one café style
restaurant in Mazabuka. Tipping is not required, but it is expected from someone
with better means - like our team members. Porters expect about .50 per bag.
What will we eat?
In Lusaka you can find just about any type of food. In Mazabuka, you can purchase
meals from your lodge. A menu is supplied for you to pre-order each day. We have
survived
many days on fresh baked bread and peanut butter and jelly from the grocery
store. Coke products are easily accessible and bottled water is a must!
Are there public restrooms?
Our lodge bathroom will be clean and comfortable. A clean public restroom in Mazabuka
simply does not exist. Be sure to carry your own paper with you. It is not supplied.
Do
NOT drink the tap water or food from street vendors.
Will I be safe?
Use common sense when traveling to Zambia. Just as you wouldn’t flash money or walk
in dark alleys alone while at home, you will not want to do this in Zambia either.
Generally, Zambians are friendly people. Malaria is quite common in Zambia. Cover
exposed skin with clothing or inspect repellent, especially at dusk. Be sure to
get anti-malaria medication before leaving home. It is said that Yellow Fever is
no longer a problem in Zambia, but do check with your local health officials to
see if you will be required to be immunized.
What is the culture like?
Zambians are quite curious and you may find yourself being stared at. Do not take
offense. Women should not wear short shorts or mini-skirts. When greeting a Zambian,
you should always say hello and ask how they are.
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