Flatdogs Camp

ESSENTIAL ZAMBIA

Language: English is the official language

Time zone: GMT+2

International dialling code: +260

Visas: Visas are needed for most visitors to Zambia. They are available from Zambian embassies abroad or at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and other points of entry.

Health: Malaria occurs in many parts of the country, especially in the low-lying areas where the game parks are often situated, so malaria prophylactics are recommended. Yellow fever certificates are required if you are travelling from an infected area. Medical insurance, including medevac, is recommended.

Safety: Zambia is known for friendliness and great hospitality but like anywhere in the world, especially where there is high unemployment, it is wise to remain vigilant at all times. Be aware of pickpockets and thieves in the towns and cities. Do not leave your belongings unattended and when in public, and carry only the minimum amount of cash that you need. Always lock a vehicle and do not leave items visible in a parked vehicle.

Money: The unit of currency is the Zambian kwacha (ZMW). Foreign currency (US dollars are best) can be changed into kwacha at banks and there are foreign exchange bureaux in most towns. Visa, and to a lesser extent MasterCard, are accepted by many tourist hotels and can also be used to draw local currency at ATMs in the major towns.

Getting there: Emirates (www.emirates.com), Kenya Airways (www.kenya-airways.com), Ethiopian Airlines (www.ethiopianairlines.com), and South African Airways (www.flysaa.com) fly to Lusaka, linking Europe and the USA via Dubai, Nairobi, Addis Ababa or Johannesburg/Cape Town.

Getting around: Once in Lusaka, internal flights can connect you to most major destinations in Zambia (www. flyzambia.com). Local buses are cheap and frequent. There are also luxury coach services.

Weather: Zambian weather is essentially divided between two seasons: the dry season from May to October, and the rainy season from November to April. May to August marks Zambia’s winter when it is warm and pleasant during the day and very cool at night. During this time it can be cold on game-viewing vehicles in the early morning, especially on the plateau. September to November is a period of hot and dry weather – in the valleys, temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius. Around November or December, Zambia experiences intermittent showers and storms that usher in the rainy season, keeping the climate warm and humid through April.