Is Zambia a good family destination?
The recommended age for children on safari is six years and older. Some lodges do not take children under 12 years. As we have children ourselves, we can advise you on the best options for you and your family according to the ages and interests of your children. See our safari primer for more information

What is the best way to travel around Zambia?
Charter flights are the most viable means of getting to the main National Parks, such as Kafue, South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. A number of charter companies run regular flights from Lusaka and Livingstone. The frequency of such flights is dependent upon the season. Zambia is also very well known for its guided walking trail safaris, which can be arranged by us in a number of game rich areas.

Can you tell me about my passport and visa requirements ?
International visitors require a valid passport together with onward travel documents. All passport holders should verify with their relevant consulate concerning visa entry requirements. If you are extending your journey to other countries, please establish entry requirements for those countries as well. There is a visa fee for guests visiting Zambia. However, for most lodges and hotels we can arrange for the visa fees to be waived provided we receive guests' full names as they appear on their passports, nationality of passport and passport number at least 48 hours prior to arrival.

What is the weather like in Zambia ?
Zambia's elevation on a plateau gives it a moderate climate, despite the fact that it is within tropical latitudes. Indeed, the weather is so pleasant that Zambia has been nicknamed "the air-conditioned state". There are three seasons: warm and wet from December to April; cool and dry from May to August; and hot and dry from September to November. Only during the wet season is there noticeable humidity. In the river valleys of the Zambezi and Luangwa it only becomes very hot in the month of October

Temperature (ºC) - These are the average lows and highs for Livingstone

January	February	March	April	May	June
17 / 32	17 / 30	18 / 31	14 / 29	10 / 29	7 / 25
July	August	September	October	November	December
6 / 25	8 / 28	14 / 33	18 / 34	18 / 31	17 / 31

Rainfall (mm). This varies according to the year and where you are.

January	February	March	April	May	June
215	185	100	45	5	3
July	August	September	October	November	December
1	3	4	20	100	190

Can I use my credit card ?
Visa and MasterCard are usually accepted throughout Zambia, but American Express and Diners Club are often not accepted.

What currency must I bring with ?
The currency in Zambia is the Kwacha, which is not available for purchase outside the country. Tourist activities are quoted and paid for in US dollars. US dollars and UK pounds are easily changed into Kwacha locally.

What are Zambia’s banks opening hours ?
Banks in Zambia are open during the following hours: 08h15 - 14h30 Mondays to Fridays. There is an ATM machine outside Barclays Bank in Livingstone

Can I use my electric hairdryer and shaver in Zambia ?
All electrical appliances run on 220 volts. Outlets are round 3 pin, 15 amp plugs. Special adapters for video cameras, chargers and hairdryers are needed and can sometimes be supplied by some hotel receptions. Various safari camps and lodges may not have 220 volts and may operate on solar powered 12-volt electricity. Remember to bring spare batteries to have charged at the lodge while out on safari.

Are there any health precautions I need to be aware of ?
Health service is not free and health insurance is advisable. Adequate health care cannot be assured outside main towns. It is advisable to carry basic medical supplies and to take precautions against malaria. Visitors should check with their own doctors concerning immunisation requirements.

Do the local people speak English in Zambia ?
English is the official language and most urban Zambians speak it fluently. In the rural areas it is used less, though only in truly remote settlements would be problems communicating in English.

How much should I tip my guide ?
If not included, it is customary to tip 10% to taxi drivers, waitresses, waiters, stewards and delivery persons. On safari, approximately US$ 5.00 - 25.00 per person per day, or more if service is above average ( see safari primer for more details )

Is there any departure tax I need to be aware of when leaving Zambia ?
A departure tax is payable in cash, in US$20 - regardless of age. This is payable in cash at either Victoria Falls or Livingstone Airport, whichever is applicable. Departure taxes payable in SA are included in your airfare.

Do you have any safety tips for me ?
It's sensible to take the same precautions in major cities as you would in any of the world's metropolitan areas. Never leave luggage unattended in front of the hotel or in the lobby. Deposit your valuables in the hotel's safety deposit box. Don't stroll around the streets after dark. Always lock your car doors and keep the windows closed. Do not walk around the city looking like a tourist and keep your camera concealed. Do not walk around with large amounts of cash and with cameras around your neck. Please carry a record of your passport number, airline tickets and travellers cheques.

Can you recommend a few books on Zambia prior to my safari or tour and where can I buy them ?

- Field Guide to the Mammals of Southern Africa - Chris & Tilde Stuart
- Newman's Birds of Southern Africa - Ken Newman.
- Zambezi - The River of the Gods - Jan & Fiona Teede.
- The Behaviour Guide to African Mammals - Richard D. Estes
- The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals - Jonathan Kingdon
- African Thunder: The Victoria Falls - Jan & Fiona Teede
- Birds of Prey of Southern, Central, and East Africa - David Allan
- Field Guide to the Snakes & Reptiles of Southern Africa - Bill Branch
- Africa's Top Wildlife Countries - Mark Nolting
- Zambia - the Bradt Travel Guide - Chris McIntyre
- African Safaris - From Budget to Big Spending by David Bristow and Julian Harrison
  (Published by Fodors)

If you wish to purchase copies of these or any nature books, please contact Russel Friedman Books at P.O. Box 73, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa or on fax +27 11 7021403 or e-mail: rfbooks@iafrica.com.