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Print & Emergency Information

Print & Emergency Information

Zambia

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • Bradt Guide to Zambia:

    Considered the most comprehensive and up-to-date guidebook for Zambia. A Bradt Zambia Guide is a valuable companion.

  • Local City Maps:

    Sometimes available at hotels or tourism offices; offline phone maps are a main navigation tool.

  • Navigation Aid:

    Supplement printed maps with digital alternatives for precise location finding.

  • Route Planning:

    Print resources aid in understanding overall geography.

  • Detailed Information:

    Go beyond general guides for cultural and logistical insights.

Books & Local Publications

  • "The Eye of the Elephant":

    Classic wildlife book set partly in Zambia, offering natural insights.

  • "An African Story":

    Autobiographical account, with parts in Zambia, for personal perspectives.

  • Local Newspapers:

    "The Mast" and "Daily Nation" offer current events and local news.

  • Local Magazines:

    Check hotel lobbies or expat boards for local magazines or flyers promoting events.

  • Zambian Authors:

    Seek local authors for fiction or poetry to deepen cultural engagement.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Services

Police: 991, Fire: 993, Ambulance: 992. Keep travel insurance emergency contact readily accessible.

Hospital Locations

Lusaka Trust Hospital, Medlands Hospital, Fairview Hospital, Coptic Hospital (all private). University Teaching Hospital (public, major referral).

Lost Documents & Disasters

For lost passport, report to police then contact embassy for emergency travel documents. Localized flooding occurs in wet season (Dec-Mar); heed advisories.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Music

  • Search for documentaries on Zambia's wildlife (BBC Earth, National Geographic).
  • Look for films that portray Zambian life or history.
  • Explore Zambian music genres like Zamrock or contemporary pop and gospel.
  • Familiarize yourself with Zambian art via online galleries.

Online Communities & Learning

  • Join travel forums for Zambia or Southern Africa for insights.
  • Search for expat groups on social media for current local advice.
  • Utilize apps like Duolingo or Memrise for basic Nyanja or Bemba.
  • YouTube tutorials also offer pronunciation guides and phrases.

Additional Print Content

Local Newspapers

  • The Mast
  • Daily Nation
  • Read for local news and current events.
  • Some listings for entertainment.

Magazines & Flyers

  • Check hotel lobbies.
  • Explore expat community boards.
  • Discover local magazines.
  • Find flyers promoting events and services.

Travel Journals

  • Document your journey.
  • Note down experiences and observations.
  • Sketch local scenes.
  • Preserve memories of Lusaka.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Ahead

  • Passport Validity: 6 months beyond return, 2 blank pages.
  • Visa Application: research and apply for e-visa or embassy.
  • Health Consultation: vaccinations (Yellow Fever), malaria prophylaxis.
  • Flight Bookings: international flights for better prices and availability.

-2 Months Ahead

  • Accommodation Booking: secure Lusaka lodging, internal flights, tours.
  • Airport Transfers: arrange from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN).
  • Bank Notification: inform banks of travel to prevent card blocks.
  • Document Gathering: International Driving Permit (IDP), vaccination certificates.

Weeks Ahead

  • Document Copies: photocopies and digital copies, stored separately.
  • Medication & First-Aid: prescriptions (with notes), Basic first-aid kit, over-the-counter remedies.
  • App Downloads: Bolt, Google Maps (offline), Google Translate (offline).
  • Packing Gear: power adapters, Portable power bank, specific insect repellent.

Bookings

Required Advance Bookings

  • International flights to Lusaka.
  • Your Zambia visa (if not eligible for on-arrival).
  • Your accommodation in Lusaka.

Pre-Trip Research

  • Read Zambian history and culture for context.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Nyanja or Bemba phrases.
  • Understand current safety advisories from your government.

Home Preparation

Home Preparation Before Departure

  • Notify trusted friends or family of itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery, or arrange collection.
  • Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if necessary.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
  • Set any alarms for added security.
  • Utilize smart home features for remote monitoring.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps

  1. Immigration: Present passport, visa, Yellow Fever certificate.
  2. Customs: Clear customs, declare items as needed.
  3. Luggage: Collect checked baggage.
  4. SIM Card: Obtain local SIM from airport kiosks.
  5. Currency: Withdraw Kwacha from ATM or forex bureau.

Orientation & Transport

  1. Head directly to pre-booked accommodation for a secure base.
  2. Familiarize yourself with your immediate neighborhood.
  3. Ask hotel staff for local tips and safe area recommendations.
  4. Purchase bottled water immediately; do not drink tap water.
  5. Use pre-arranged hotel transfer, reputable airport taxi, or ride-sharing app.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance. Arrange shipping with major courier services (DHL, FedEx) in Lusaka. Keep purchase receipts.

VAT Refund

Zambia does not typically offer a widely implemented VAT refund scheme for tourists. Do not expect to claim VAT refunds.

Pre-departure Timing

Allow ample time for travel to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN). Arrive at least 2-3 hours before your international flight. Account for potential traffic in Lusaka.

Important Checklist Reminder

Thorough preparation reduces stress and enhances your journey, ensuring a smooth entry and exit from Lusaka.

Experiences & Responsible Travel

Life-Changing Insights

Life-Changing Aspects

  • Urban African Insight:

    Lusaka offers a distinct view into urban African life, contrasting with safari experiences.

  • Zambian Hospitality:

    Engaging with the warmth, friendliness, and resilience of Zambian people is deeply moving.

  • Genuine Connections:

    Interactions with locals often are the most memorable part, fostering a genuine connection.

Cultural Perspectives & Growth

  • Zambian Ingenuity:

    Grasp Zambian ingenuity and the deep-rooted sense of hospitality (Ubuntu).

  • Adaptability:

    Traveling in Lusaka fosters adaptability and patience in a new environment.

  • Global Awareness:

    Expanding your global awareness challenges preconceived notions about Africa.

Responsible Travel Principles

Support Local Commerce

Support local businesses and artisans. Purchase souvenirs directly from Kabwata Cultural Village or local markets.

Donate Responsibly

Donate to reputable local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) or community projects focusing on education, health, or conservation.

Community Initiatives

Participate in community-based tourism initiatives where available, offering direct support to local communities.

Environmental Commitment

Environmental Stewardship

  • Minimize plastic waste using a Reusable water bottle.
  • Fill your bottle with purified water to lessen waste.
  • Conserve water and energy at your accommodation by turning off lights and AC.
  • Take shorter showers to reduce water usage.

Waste Management & Eco-Friendly Choices

  • Dispose of waste responsibly using designated bins; avoid littering.
  • Choose eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations that commit to sustainability.
  • Support businesses that prioritize environmental protection.
  • Your choices contribute to Lusaka's preservation.

Cultural Respect

Respectful Interactions

  • Always ask before photographing people; respect their decision if they decline.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully, especially in local markets or religious sites.
  • Learn and use basic local greetings in Nyanja or Bemba.
  • This simple gesture shows appreciation and respect.

Openness & Patience

  • Be open-minded and patient, embracing differences in pace and customs.
  • Cultural immersion strengthens your travel experience.
  • Engage with an open heart and mind for richer interactions.
  • Your positive attitude fosters mutual respect.