Security travel advice for Zambia

How safe is Zambia?

Threat level: Medium - High

The current travel advice for Zambia is to remain vigilant during travel in the country. There is a general threat of terror aimed at western travellers and the overall travel advice for Zambia is to remain cautious of this threat and take basic safety precautions during travel. The crime rate in Zambia is relatively high in most parts of the country.

Rural areas are a particular risk to travellers as many locals do not take kindly to outsiders and often take advantage of vulnerable individuals. An increase of ritual murders has taken place since April 2016.

Home invasions and sexual assault are a major problem in larger cities and urban areas of Zambia.

Intelligent Protection International Limited provides its private and business clients with Security and Bodyguard services in Zambia. These services are ideal for clients on Safari. For more information on these services, please see our page: Bodyguard services in Zambia.

COVID-19 situation in Zambia

Due to the sanitary situation in Zambia and the rest of the world, measures have been implemented to tackle the spread of the virus such as: the mandatory use of face masks in public places and gatherings of more than 5 people must be approved in writting by local authorities. Borders are open but screening procedures are in place when arriving in Zambia and travellers must present a negative PCR test result on arrival taken no more than 72 hours prior travelling. To avoid contracting the disease, wear a face mask, sanitise your hands regularly, maintain social distancing, and avoid public gatherings and unnecessary travel.

Recent security risk events
Vehicle hijackings and armed banditry is a serious risk in all parts of the country. It is advised not to stray far from the main cities and not to drive during the night. Be vigilant in all areas, keep all vehicle doors locked and windows closed when driving, and remain aware of your surroundings, especially if you have to drive after dark.

The country has experienced some political unrest in recent years. Demonstrations can sometimes turn violent and have resulted in deaths in the past. There is also a risk of student rallies which often get out of hand. You should avoid public gatherings when possible and monitor the local media.

Security risks
Travellers in tourist areas such as national parks and Lusaka often fall victim to bag snatching, pick pocketing and theft from parked cars. Public transport hubs often experience the highest rates of petty crimes, so it essential to be extra vigilant in these areas.

Travel to Copperbelt, Central and Luapula provinces close to the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo are all highly advised against due to a recent increase in armed banditry and mass murders.

There is a risk of left over mines and other unexploded ordinance from previous wars in remote areas near the borders with Angola, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

ZAMBIA'S INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Zambia is now a member of 44 international organizations, including the United Nations and African Union. It has been part of the Commonwealth Republic since 1964 and is a member of the non-Aligned movement which sees the country not align itself with any major power bloc.

The country is currently experiencing ongoing border disputes with Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic Of Congo. Zambia has been a Commonwealth Republic since 1964.

TRAVELLING AROUND ZAMBIA

You can drive in Zambia on a UK licence, most EU licences and many other national licences for a max of 90 days. Road travel at night in rural areas can be dangerous as many of the roads are in poor condition and are not adequatekly lit. It is advised not to drive at night outside the main towns to reduce the risk of trouble or accidents.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

EMERGENCY SERVICES IN ZAMBIA

Police emergency: 999
Fire emergency: 991
Medical emergency: 993

ZAMBIA OVERVIEW

Capital : Lusaka
Official languages: English
Religion: Christianity
Currency: Kwacha

CONSULAR INFORMATION FOR ZAMBIA

U.S. Embassy Lusaka
Eastern end of Kabulonga Road,
Ibex Hill,
P.O. Box 320065,
Lusaka,
Zambia
Telephone: +260 211 357 000
Email: consularlusaka@state.gov

British High Commission Lusaka
5210 Independence Avenue,
P.O. Box 50050,
15101 Ridgeway,
Lusaka,
10101,
Zambia
Telephone: +260 211 423 200
Email: LusakaGeneralEnquiries@fco.gov.uk

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR ZAMBIA

Nationals of Cyprus, Ireland, Malta and Romania are the only nationalities that do not require a visa to enter Zambia. Other nationalities will be required to obtain a visa before travel to enter Zambia.

Healthcare and Immunisations

It is advised that visitors to Zambia are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is recommended for most travellers to also get Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations.

There is a low risk of Yellow Fever in some parts of Zambia which you may want to consider a vaccination for. If you are coming from a country where there is a risk of the disease, or transiting for longer than 12 hours in an at risk country, you will have to provide a certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination. Check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

Malaria is of high risk during both the wet and dry season in Zambia, precautions should be taken to prevent yourself from contracting the disease. This includes actions such as wearing appropriate clothing and sleeping with a mosquito net during the night.

There has been an outbreak of cholera in Zambia since October 2017, people travelling to affected areas should consider being vaccinated against the disease.

There are many street food vendors in Lusaka who do not adhere to and health and hygiene standards and as such can lead to stomach illness. It is recommended that you do not purchase from them and if you do, eat from them at your own risk.