Zambia

Zambiahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/zambiaZambiahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/zambia/travel-inside-zambiaThe most dangerous parts of Zambia are its border regions. Reconsider your need to travel to these areas due to the risk of landmines.2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/zambia/travel-inside-zambiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>By far the most dangerous part of Zambia are the borders with Angola, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo. You should seriously reconsider your need to travel to these areas as the risk of landmines is very high.</p> <p>Not surprisingly, landmines can make off-road travel highly hazardous in these areas, and most of the time the mined areas are not marked. Local authorities can provide some advice on affected areas.</p> <p>The border area with the Democratic Republic of Congo is particularly dangerous with the armed criminal gangs adding to the threat of landmines!</p> <h2>The roads in Zambia</h2> <p>Vehicles drive on the left side of the road in Zambia — at least most of the time.</p> <p>Driving in Zambia can be dangerous as many roads are in disrepair, in fact most of the roads throughout Zambia are in very poor condition.</p> <p>Add to that bad driving habits, poorly maintained vehicles, pedestrians, animals wandering onto roads and inadequate road lighting and you've got potential threats coming at you from all angles.</p> <p>Potholes often take up the entire road and during the rainy season, large sections of the roads simply wash away.</p> <h2>Dirt driving</h2> <p>As you move away from city centers, paved roads make way for dirt roads which bring their own set of dangers. Although they might look solid, the dirt is often loose, and the chances of an accident are huge if you do not keep to a reasonable speed.</p> <p>4WD vehicles are necessary on dirt roads in the rainy season (indeed most of the time), although some roads will become completely impassable then.</p> <h2>Breakdown laws</h2> <p>If you decide to hire a car you should ensure it is equipped with two metallic emergency triangles with white reflective stickers on the front and red reflective stickers on the back. Drivers face heavy fines for non-compliance.</p> <p>In Zambia there are no Roadside Assistance Packages and very few ambulances, tow-trucks, or emergency vehicles of any kind. Given the circumstances, bush mechanics can do an amazingly good job of patching up your vehicle – but their expertise is mechanical not medicinal – so try to stay safe!</p> <h2>Public transport</h2> <p>Minibuses (basically vans outfitted with seats) are a popular way of getting around, but they are irregular, dangerous and very uncomfortable. To maximize his profits, a "conductor" will squeeze as many customers and their luggage into the bus as possible. Larger "luxury coaches" exist, and tend to be more reliable and safer. These coaches are much more comfortable and are virtually guaranteed to arrive – a better bet than a Minibus!</p>Getty Images/MarcPo 1488411980 Getty Images Two people riding their bicycles in Zambia

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/zambia/health-concerns-for-zambiaWhat vaccinations will I need? Can I drink the tap water? Find out what you need to know to stay healthy while on the road in Zambia.2019-05-06T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/zambia/health-concerns-for-zambiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#vaccine">Vaccinations for Zambia</a></li> <li><a href="#medical">Medical Treatment</a></li> <li><a href="#mozzie">Mosquito-Borne Diseases</a></li> <li><a href="#water">Can I Drink The Water?</a></li> <li><a href="#other">Other Health Issues</a></li> <li><a href="#alcohol">Bootleg Alcohol</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="vaccine">Vaccinations for Zambia</h2> <p>You should consider the following vaccinations prior to travel to Zambia:</p> <ul> <li>Routine vaccinations: measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, polio, chicken pox</li> <li><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/typhoid">Typhoid</a></li> <li>Cholera - there have been outbreaks of the disease in Zambia, the latest in February 2019. Commonly occurs during the rainy season</li> <li>Hepatitis A</li> <li>Rabies - recommended for travelers who plan to spend extended travel time in rural locations, where animal bitean  is a risk</li> </ul> <p>Yellow fever is currently not present in Zambia so vaccination is not required, however, if you have traveled from an infected country, you will need proof of vaccination on arrival.</p> <h2 id="medical">Medical Treatment</h2> <p>The standard of public medical facilities in Zambia is poor, especially in rural areas where clinics are few and far between. In the capital, Lusaka, and other major towns, there are public hospitals and clinics but they are underfunded, busy and the wait can be long. There are also private hospitals and clinics, however, payment will likely be required upfront. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation to South Africa may be necessary.</p> <p>Pharmacies can be found in Lusaka and other major towns, but medical supplies can be limited and some prescription medicines may not be available. Travelers are advised to bring any <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/medications-and-travel">medications</a> (in original packaging) they may need for their trip and a doctor's letter outlining their use and dosage as some medications may be considered illegal in Zambia.</p> <p>Medications such as antihistamines, and other over-the-counter medications which contain small quantities of diphenhydramine (an active ingredient), are on Zambia's list of controlled substances. If you are unsure, contact the embassy for more information regarding medications.</p> <h2 id="mozzie">Mosquito-Borne Diseases</h2> <h3>Malaria</h3> <p>Transmitted via mosquito bite, it's vital travelers <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention">take precautions</a> to avoid contracting <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/malaria">this disease</a> including antimalarials. If you choose to take them, chat with your travel doctor first to see which ones are best for the destination you are traveling to.</p> <h3>Dengue Fever</h3> <p>Travelers must <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention">protect themselves</a> from being bitten to avoid contracting <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/what-you-need-to-know-about-dengue-fever">this disease</a>. Should you start to feel unwell, seek medical help immediately as left untreated, dengue fever can evolve into dengue hemorrhagic fever which is a life-threatening condition.</p> <h3>Chikungunya</h3> <p><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/chikungunya">Chikungunya</a> is spread by the two mosquito species which also spread dengue fever. Those infected experience joint pain, fever, skin rash, headache and fatigue. So if you get some unusually sore joints - It's advised to seek medical attention.</p> <h2 id="water">Can I Drink The Water?</h2> <p>Drinking the local water is not recommended, <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/bottled-vs-filtered-water">so stick to boiled or treated water</a>.</p> <p>If you do end up sick, often it's a case of just riding it out but if things get worse e.g passing blood, you should seek immediate medical attention as you may have dysentery.</p> <h2 id="other">Other Health Issues</h2> <h3>Traveler's Diarrhea</h3> <p>It goes without saying but always wash your hands before eating (use an antibacterial gel if running water and soap isn't available).</p> <p>When eating out, avoid buffet-style restaurants where the food may be prepared in a questionable way or left to sit out all day. For more handy tips, check out our article on <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/food-safety-on-the-road-or-how-to-avoid-gastro">street food safety</a>.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/travelers-diarrhoea-health-tips">Read our article</a> on what to do should you end up with a dose of traveler's diarrhea.</p> <h3>Schistosomiasis</h3> <p>Avoid swimming in fresh water to avoid exposure to certain water-borne diseases such as schistosomiasis, which is present throughout Zambia.</p> <p>Schistosomiasis is a disease caused by parasitic worms called schistosomes carried by freshwater snail species and is commonly found in tropical regions. Symptoms are similar to African Sleeping Sickness plus throw in chills, coughing and stomach pain. Seek medical treatment as quickly as possible. If treated early, the infection can clear in a few days.</p> <p>More than a billion people are at risk of the disease worldwide and ~300 million are infected. The parasite larvae develop in snails which infect humans. The human body is the host in which they mature and reproduce.</p> <h3>African Sleeping Sickness</h3> <p>The International Association for Medical Assistance for Travellers indicates that African Sleeping Sickness is endemic in the southern and eastern parts of Zambia. Localized cases have been reported in the northern areas, particularly in the Luangwa Valley and Kafue National Park.</p> <p>It's an infection caused by a parasite, <em>Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense</em>, carried by the Tsetse fly, which is found in rural locations.</p> <p>When an infected fly bites you, the infection spreads through your circulatory system and can it result in swelling of the brain. Symptoms include headaches, skin irritation, fever and joint pain, with advanced cases exhibiting disorientation, a lack of coordination and change in behavior.</p> <p>You will know when a tsetse fly bites you – it's a painful sting. You should take precautions to prevent bites and seek medical treatment immediately if you feel unwell.</p> <h3>HIV-AIDS</h3> <p>The level of HIV/AIDS infection is high so avoid having unprotected sex and use appropriate precautions if you come into contact with blood or body fluids. In 2017, it's estimated around <a href="https://www.avert.org/professionals/hiv-around-world/sub-saharan-africa/zambia">1.1 million people</a> in Zambia live with HIV however new infections are decreasing.</p> <h2 id="alcohol">Bootleg Alcohol</h2> <p>In rural areas and poor urban communities, locals like to make their own home brews and these can vary from beers made from honey to wine made from tea leaves. There is also an illegal distilled brew known as <em>kachasu</em> - a spirit distilled from maize and fruit peels, however unconventional ingredients such as ammonium nitrate (fertilizer) are added. The beverage can contain up to 70% alcohol and many people have died from consuming it. If you plan to have a drink out somewhere, stick to reputable brands.</p>GettyImages/Fabian Plock - EyeEm 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/africa/zambia/crime-scams-and-trouble-in-zambiaPetty crime and scams occur in Zambia, but there are things you can do to stay one step ahead of the local crims. Here's how to stay safe and within the law while traveling.2020-09-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/africa/zambia/crime-scams-and-trouble-in-zambiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><em><strong>Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions in Zambia – updated 1 September, 2020:</strong> Flights have resumed to Lusaka, and borders are open. Tourist visas are only available in advance, not on arrival. On arrival, foreign travelers must show proof of a negative test result for COVID-19 taken within 14 days prior, and may be tested via nasal swab if symptoms are displayed. Returning residents need to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival, however there is no requirement for international travelers to self-isolate. </em></p> <p><strong><a href="/help/insurance/recent-events/coronavirus-faqs" target="_blank" title="Coronavirus FAQs">Wondering how your travel insurance might be affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak? Find answers to some of our common questions about COVID-19</a>.</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="#crime">Crime in Zambia</a></li> <li><a href="#scams">Scams in Zambia</a></li> <li><a href="#law">Local laws in Zambia</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">LGBTQ safety</a></li> <li><a href="#women">Women's safety</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="crime">How bad is crime in Zambia?</h2> <p>Zambia is one of the safer countries in Africa, however, you should use your common sense when it comes to staying safe.</p> <p>Bag snatching and theft from parked cars have been reported at restaurants and internet cafes in downtown areas of Lusaka and Livingstone, particularly near transport hubs and in some shopping areas. Always keep your bag or valuables secured and close to you. Never hang your bag off the back of your chair.</p> <p>When traveling by car, keep the doors locked and the windows up at all times. Valuables should be kept out of sight. Thieves may target luxury 4WD vehicles, travelers at transport hubs, crowded market areas and shopping precincts.</p> <p>Avoid traveling after dark, aside from the personal safety risk, the road conditions in some parts of Zambia aren't great, not to mention the drunk drivers you may encounter. The Zambian Road and Transport Agency reported that 55% of all road fatalities happen after dark.<br /><br />Avoid walking alone at night. While most locals are friendly, there are many areas that are poorly lit and a local criminal may see you as easy pickings.</p> <p>There have been reports of carjackings by Congolese gangs on the Mufulira to Ndola road which runs parallel with the Democratic Republic of the Congo border. Stay alert and don't stop to give lifts to anyone on the roadside. Exercise caution where objects appear to have been placed to block the road.</p> <p>Police and immigration officials can request to see your passport and immigration stamp/visa at any time. Failure to produce these documents may result in you being arrested and detained. Carry your passport and visa or immigration permit at all times.</p> <h2 id="scams">Scams in Zambia</h2> <h3>Money changing scam</h3> <p>Take care when exchanging money, and avoid flashing large amounts around. Try to exchange your money in a bank although travelers have reported getting a good exchange rate from stand-alone money changers on the street. Avoid changing your cash with any group of men who may approach you as they are likely running a scam and you may end up with less than you started with.</p> <h3>Government fee scam</h3> <p>Travelers may be targeted for "fees" to be paid to various Zambian officials or groups. If you are asked to pay a fee, make sure you get an official receipt from the Government of Zambia for any fines and duties paid. Anyone who claims not to issue official receipts is likely to be a scammer. Before handing over any money, politely insist that you get a receipt for your money. Usually, this will make the scammer think twice and leave.</p> <h2 id="law">Local laws in Zambia</h2> <h3>Drugs</h3> <p>The possession of drugs, including recreational drugs such as marijuana, is illegal in Zambia.</p> <p>Drug use and trafficking are also offenses and punishments can be severe.</p> <p>The possession of more than 0.5 gram of an illegal substance can constitute drug trafficking in Zambia. But the Zambian interpretation of an "illegal substance" is very broad and can get even innocent travelers into a lot of trouble.</p> <h3>Pornographic material</h3> <p>The possession of pornographic material is illegal in Zambia and offenders may be jailed and/or deported. What you think is a legitimate "men's magazine" might be considered pornographic by the Zambian authorities.</p> <h3>Photography</h3> <p>It's illegal to photograph around military zones, military personnel, government buildings, Kariba Dam and transport hubs in Zambia.</p> <h3>Animal trophies</h3> <p>It's against Zambian law to buy, possess or transport animal products such as:</p> <ul> <li>tortoise shells</li> <li>rhino horns</li> <li>elephant ivory</li> <li>tusks of any animal</li> </ul> <p>Many of these items are sold in markets throughout the country, it remains the responsibility of the customer to ensure they aren't purchasing an illegal item.</p> <p>The Zambian Wildlife Authority has screening at international ports and will prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law with penalties ranging from large fines to five-year jail sentences.</p> <h2 id="lgbtq">Is Zambia safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>While it's unlikely that visitors would be arrested, homosexuality is illegal in Zambia and those caught engaging in homosexual acts can be sentenced to long terms of imprisonment. LGBTQ+ visitors should be discreet with public displays of affection. </p> <h2 id="women">Is Zambia safe for women travelers?</h2> <p>Overall, compared to other countries in Africa, Zambia is relatively safe for women travelers. Zambia is a patriarchal and conservative country, so women travelers are advised to dress modestly, particularly if they are traveling in more rural locales where social attitudes can be more conservative than urban centers. If you plan to head out at night for drinks, consider taking a male companion with you. </p>Getty Images/Tom Cockrem 1 Getty Images