E & S Africa, Zambia

Overview

Zambia has excellent national parks teeming with birds and other animals, as well as the spectacular Victoria Falls and Zambezi River. Apart from sightseeing, these places are also centres for activities ranging from canoeing to white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

When To Go

If you want to spot wildlife, August to October is the best time to visit, though an average of around 32°C 89°F during the day by the end of that period, especially in low-lying areas - which includes the major national parks. If you want cooler weather and greener landscapes, visit during the cool, dry months of May to August. During the November to April rainy season some national parks are closed, and animals are harder to spot because of the lush vegetation, although the lodges that remain open offer very attractive rates and you have the parks virtually to yourself. Getting around at this time is also harder as many rural roads become impassable rivers of mud. Zambia is an excellent place for bird-watchers; November to December is the best time, although conditions are good year-round.

Visas

Most visitors need visas, which are good for three months, plus an International Health Certificate showing proof of a yellow fever vaccination within the past 10 years, though you're unlikely to be asked for this. For many nationalities, visas are available on arrival, though regulations do change so check before you turn up. Visa fees also vary for different nationalities, though for most it's 25.00 for a single entry. British passport holders are the notable exception - it will cost you guys 65.00.

Weather

Zambia's altitude creates a temperate climate. There are three distinct seasons: the dry season mid-April to August, when temperatures drop at night and the landscape is green and lush; the hot season September to mid-November, which is the best time to see wildlife as flora is sparse; and the wet season mid-November to mid-April. Temperatures climb up to 29 to 30°C 84-86°F during the day with quite cold nights throughout the year. Overall temperatures are slightly cooler in the middle of the year, which, along with sparse rainfall, make things quite pleasant.

Getting There

Europe has frequent air connections with Zambia. British Airways, KLM and Air France all have regular services to Lusaka. African carriers flying to the capital include Air Zimbabwe, Ethiopian Airways, Kenya Airways and South African Airways. Lusaka Airport is 20km 12mi east of the centre. There's no airport bus, but taxis and hotel courtesy vans meet international flights. A growing number of tourists fly directly to Livingstone, near Victoria Falls. South African budget airlines fly to Livingstone and Lusaka from Johannesburg - Nationwide has the most flights. Mfuwe, the town nearest to South Luangwa National Park, also takes occasional international flights

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