Risk level

Safety and security

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be victim of harassments and verbal or physical violence. Avoid public display of affection.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Spiked food and drinks

The use of “date rape drugs” at bars, restaurants and nightclubs occurs in Lusaka. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Roads

Road safety

There are major road safety issues in Zambia. Fatal accidents are common, especially on the Great East Road, the Great North Road and Kafue Road. Pedestrians are often involved. Police and emergency services assistance is limited or even unavailable in rural areas. There are no ambulances to assist in the event of a road accident.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary throughout the country and at different times of the year. Main roads are generally well maintained, while secondary roads can be in poor condition and dangerous. During the rainy season, from December to April, road conditions deteriorate significantly, and driving can become dangerous.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• poorly maintained vehicles
• pedestrians on the road
• potholes
• stray animals
• insufficient lighting and vehicles not using their headlights

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and speeding is common. Priority is not given to pedestrians or other drivers. Drinking and driving is common.

If you choose to drive in Zambia:

• always drive defensively
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk 
• consider using a four-wheel drive vehicle during the rainy season
• ask about insurance coverage options for roadside assistance when you rent a vehicle 

Checkpoints

Police checkpoints are common throughout the country, particularly outside cities. Only national police officers have the authority to establish checkpoints.

• Be prepared to show your identification
• Follow the instructions of the police
• Remain calm and courteous

If you are asked to pay a fine on the spot for traffic violation, ask for a copy of the written fine that can be paid later, or insist on going to the nearest police station.

National parks and nature reserves

Many national parks and nature reserves are in remote areas with limited emergency services. Wild animals often venture within boundaries of camps.

If you decide to visit parks and reserves:

• only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• follow the advice and warnings of local tour guides and camp employees
• avoid swimming in lakes and rivers due to the presence of dangerous animals or health risks (schistosomiasis LINK to the schistosomiasis section in the health tab)
• do not walk around at night
• never leave children unattended

Wildlife observation

Wild animals can be dangerous, particularly if you are on foot or at close range. 

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

Water shortages and power outages

Water shortages and power outages occur regularly in Zambia and are worsened by severe droughts that have become more frequent in recent years. The droughts have significantly reduced water levels affecting the country’s hydroelectric production, leading to nationwide water rationing measures and power outages.

Power outages can affect the following services and businesses:

• public lighting and traffic lights
• telecommunications and security systems
• stores and food supply
• hotels and other accommodations
• banks and ATMs

If you are in Zambia:

• keep a supply of water, food and fuel on hand
• be prepared for prolonged power outages
• make sure you always have a complete emergency kit on hand, including several flashlights
• always carry a cell phone, power banks, chargers and keep a list of emergency numbers handy

Fraud

Cybercrime

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks in order to steal personal data or credit information. 

Romance scams through dating sites and/or social media have occurred.

• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks 
• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media 
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online 
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Zambia to meet an online acquaintance in person
• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering attractive business opportunities

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs in Zambia.

When using your debit or credit card: 

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN 
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards 
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature 
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business 
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements 

Useful links

Overseas fraud

Cyber security while travelling

Travelling in remote areas

Tourism infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants and transportation networks, is limited outside the major cities and well-known parks.

If you are planning to travel to remote areas: 

• avoid travelling after dark
• keep a supply of water, food, fuel and an emergency kit on hand
• bring a reliable means of communication, such as a cellular telephone (in areas with reliable service), a satellite telephone or a VHF radio
• use a reputable tour operator

Public transportation

Buses

Minibuses are unsafe, poorly maintained, overcrowded and frequently involved in accidents, some of which are fatal. Their drivers do not always respect traffic laws.

Intercity buses operated by reputable companies are usually safer.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Taxis availability may be limited outside city centers. Fares are expensive and should be paid in local currency.

• Use only licensed taxis selected by a reputable hotel or restaurant, or from an official taxi stand
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Always ask for identification before accepting transportation, and check that the driver’s ID matches the name of the car registration and taxi license
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Rideshare services are available in Lusaka and some major cities.

• Use a trusted ridesharing app
• Confirm the driver’s identity and the license plate before getting in the car
• Don't share your ride with a stranger
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

Trains

Rail services are limited, slow and unreliable.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Zambian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Zambia and should have at least 3 blank pages.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days per calendar year
Business visa: not required for stays up to 30 days per calendar year
Student visa: not required for stays up to 30 days per calendar year
Volunteer visa: not required for stays up to 30 days per calendar year

Check that the authorised number of days stamped in your passport on arrival matches the length of your intended stay. While Canadian tourists are eligible for up to 90 days, immigration officials may only grant 30 days.

To stay in Zambia beyond your authorised period, apply for an extension at a Zambian immigration office or through Zambia’s e-service platform. Overstaying can result in fines, arrest, imprisonment or deportation.

The KAZA UNIVISA is a shared tourist visa between Zambia and Zimbabwe to simplify cross-border travel between the two countries in the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Areas. It also allows day trips to Botswana. You can apply online through Zambia’s e-service platform or in person at the following locations:

• Kenet Kaunda and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport
• Victoria Falls and Kazungula land border crossings

E-services platform – Zambia Department of Immigration

Departure tax

Foreigners are required to pay a departure tax before leaving Zambia, which is usually included in the cost of international flight tickets. For domestic flights, passengers must pay a small fee in kwacha (local currency) before entering the departure hall.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Quality of care varies significantly throughout the country. Medical care is generally good in some private facilities in Lusaka but is very limited or unavailable in rural areas. Medical supplies can also be limited.

Public and private medical facilities usually require an initial cash deposit, a payment guarantee or confirmation that you have medical insurance. Outside of major cities, only a cash deposit will be accepted. In the event of a medical emergency, air evacuation abroad may be necessary. 

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and/or deportation.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Always carry a valid identification or certified photocopy of it
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Certified copies may be obtained from the immigration offices or local police station.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Zambian law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face up to life imprisonment.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Zambia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities: 

• dress conservatively 
• avoid kissing in public
• behave discreetly 
• respect religious and social traditions 

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Zambia. However, if local authorities consider you a citizen of Zambia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services, which would limit our ability to assist you.

Using your valid Canadian passport and presenting yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times minimize this risk. You may however need to carry and present a Zambian passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country. Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance.

Dual citizens

Imports and exports

Minerals

Local authorities strictly enforce laws regulating the import and export of minerals.

A permit is required from the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development for importing or exporting various items, including:

• precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum
• gemstones
• base metals
• industrial minerals

Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development - Government of Zambia

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Zambia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Zambia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the competent Zambian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Zambia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Pornography

The possession of pornographic material is illegal in Zambia. Offenders may be jailed and/or deported.

Photography and drones

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• airports
• ports
• military sites
• government buildings
• people in uniform

Always ask permission before photographing individuals or official buildings.

To fly drones in Zambia, you must obtain necessary authorizations from the Zambian Civil Aviation Authority

Zambian Civil Aviation Authority – Government of Zambia

Driving

You can drive in Zambia for up to 90 days with a valid Canadian driver’s licence. If you intend to stay longer, you must obtain an International Driving Permit or a Zambian driving licence. If your licence is in French, you should have an English translation with you.

Traffic drives on the left. Turning left at a red light is prohibited. Vehicles must be equipped with two metallic emergency triangles, white reflector stickers in front and red reflector stickers in back. Failure to comply may result in heavy fines.

Penalties for drunk driving are severe.

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency is the Zambian kwacha (ZMW). You can exchange US dollars, British pounds or South African rands at any exchange bureau.

Major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger supermarkets, restaurants, stores and hotels in large urban centres. ATMs are available in main cities. You should carry local currency when travelling to rural locations.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Zambia. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans.

Rainy season

The rainy season usually extends from December to April. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Rural roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Drought

The dry season usually lasts from May to October but has become more severe and longer in recent years. Drought has caused widespread crop failure, accelerated desertification and lowered water levels. Given the country's reliance on hydropower, this has led to prolonged electricity shortages. Local authorities can impose restrictions on water use, with fines for non-compliance.