Zambia doesn’t try to impress you—it just does. You feel it when the spray from Victoria Falls hits your face before you’ve even seen the water. You hear it in the crackle of a night fire in South Luangwa, with hippos grumbling nearby. And you carry it with you after sharing nshima and laughter with people who make time for conversation.
This is a country where nature leads, and people move at a rhythm shaped by land, water, and tradition. It’s not a place you “tick off.” Zambia is a place you walk through—and remember.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, local dishes to try, and the best way to stay connected with JetSet eSIM.
Why Travel to Zambia?
Zambia is for travelers who want to feel something real. Not just see a waterfall—but feel the earth shake under it. Not just go on safari—but walk, quietly, through the bush beside someone who knows how to read the ground.
Wildlife is everywhere—elephants crossing roads, zebras grazing by rivers, lions resting in tall grass. But there’s also balance. You’ll find peaceful towns, traditional villages, and open-hearted people who take pride in where they’re from.
Travel here takes patience, but it gives back in full. Zambia offers stories, silence, and moments you don’t expect—and that’s what makes it unforgettable.
Must-See Places in Zambia
Victoria Falls – Where the Earth Opens Up
Called Mosi-oa-Tunya—“The Smoke That Thunders”—these falls aren’t just big. They’re overwhelming. Walk the knife-edge bridge with mist all around you, take a helicopter ride, or feel the pull of the Zambezi from a raft below.
South Luangwa – Walking Among Wildlife
No safari truck. No engine noise. Just your guide, some footprints, and the knowledge that anything could be around the next bend. This is where walking safaris were born—and they’re still the best.
Lower Zambezi – River of Light and Shadow
Float past elephants on a canoe. Watch buffalo wade into the shallows. Camp under open skies with the sound of water always nearby. The Lower Zambezi is where time slows, and every bend in the river tells a new story.
Lusaka – Market Streets and Everyday Life
Zambia’s capital moves fast. Markets buzz, minibuses weave, and music spills into the streets. You’ll find friendly faces, street food, and a daily rhythm that reflects the country’s heart.
Lake Bangweulu – Mist and Myth
At dawn, the lake disappears into fog, and fishermen glide across the glassy water like shadows. This is where the land breathes softly—and where rare shoebill storks wade in silence.
What to Eat in Zambia
Nshima – The Staple at Every Table
Soft, hot, and always made fresh. Nshima is a thick maize porridge that’s eaten with your hands and served with vegetables, meat, or fish. It’s not just a dish—it’s part of life.
Ifisashi – Groundnut Stew with Greens
This creamy stew blends crushed peanuts with spinach or pumpkin leaves. Rich, savory, and full of flavor, it’s often served with nshima and eaten at family gatherings.
Kapenta – Tiny Fish, Big Flavor
Dried or fried, these small sardine-like fish are packed with taste. Served with tomato and onion or just salt and heat, they’re a common protein source from Zambia’s lakes.
Chikanda – The “African Polony”
Made from wild orchid tubers, groundnuts, and spices, chikanda is firm, smoky, and uniquely Zambian. Found at markets and snack stalls, it’s a surprise most visitors never forget.
Vitumbuwa – Sweet Fried Dough Balls
Crispy outside, soft inside. These sweet treats are sold warm by roadside vendors and pair perfectly with tea in the morning.
Essential Travel Tips for Zambia
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (May to October) is ideal for safaris, as animals gather at water sources.
- Rainy Season (Nov to April) brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists—but some parks become inaccessible.
Money & Payments
- Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW).
- Cards: Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and supermarkets, but not in small towns or markets.
- Cash: Always carry some cash—especially for transport, food stalls, and tips. ATMs are available in cities.
- Tipping: Appreciated, especially for guides and hospitality staff (10% is a good benchmark).
Getting Around
- Domestic Flights connect Lusaka to safari hubs like Mfuwe and Livingstone.
- Long-Distance Buses are affordable but vary in comfort and reliability.
- Private Transfers or Lodge Pickups are the best choice when heading into national parks.
Staying Safe
- Zambia is generally safe and peaceful. Petty theft can happen in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings.
- Use registered taxis or transport arranged by your accommodation.
- Tap water isn’t always safe to drink—bottled or boiled water is recommended.
Staying Connected in Zambia
Wi-Fi is available in many hotels and lodges in Lusaka, Livingstone, and some safari camps—but it’s not always fast or consistent. In remote areas, coverage drops off, and public networks are rare and insecure.
Buying a local SIM card is possible, but it involves finding the right shop, registering with your passport, and navigating different data plans. Not ideal after a long flight or before heading off-grid.
JetSet eSIM is the stress-free option.
Activate Zambia JetSet eSIM before your trip, land with data ready to go, and stay connected wherever your journey leads. No store visits, no forms, no roaming fees. Should you need another eSIM, you can order another one online in seconds.
From Lusaka to the Lower Zambezi, stay online with JetSet eSIM—secure, simple, and always in your pocket.
