FAQs

December in Zambia is part of the rainy season, so travelers can expect warm and humid weather, with daytime temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F). It’s common to experience afternoon showers or thunderstorms, particularly as the month progresses. Packing light, breathable clothing is advisable, along with a waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during unexpected rain. Comfortable footwear is essential, especially if you plan on exploring outdoor attractions. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended to protect against the sun's intensity. For evenings, it can get cooler, so a light sweater or shawl might be handy. Overall, being prepared for both warm and wet conditions will ensure a comfortable experience during the Christmas season.

Various restaurants and hotels across Zambia offer special Christmas brunch or dinner options for visitors. In Lusaka, upscale venues like the Radisson Blu and InterContinental Hotel typically host lavish Christmas buffets featuring both local and international cuisines. These brunches often include a selection of meats, seafood and festive desserts, making them a great choice for families or groups looking to celebrate together. Reservations are highly recommended, as these events can fill up quickly. Many restaurants also decorate for the holidays, creating a festive atmosphere for diners. In smaller towns, local eateries might offer traditional Zambian dishes during the Christmas season, providing a chance for visitors to taste authentic local flavors.

Christmas in Zambia is a family-oriented celebration and there are several activities designed for children and families. In rural communities, families engage in traditional celebrations that include storytelling, singing and preparing special meals together. Family & Child-Friendly Christmas Activities Community Volunteer Projects: Livingstone offers Christmas volunteer opportunities through groups such as African Impact. At nearby homes for the elderly, families may take part in events like food service, making decorations for children's hospitals, and playing holiday games. Church Services and Nativity Plays: Throughout Zambia, several churches host unique Christmas services that feature nativity plays, singing, and dancing. These initiatives highlight the importance of community spirit and offer a meaningful way to enjoy the holiday. In order to promote a sense of community and generosity, children are invited to participate by bringing presents to give to less fortunate children. Feasts & Family Get-togethers: In Zambia, Christmas is a time for family get-togethers. Families frequently get together to celebrate by eating traditional foods like grilled meats and Nshima (cornmeal). Children may spend time with their extended families and participate in joyous festivities thanks to this community feature. Holiday Clubs and Activities: A few neighborhood groups provide holiday clubs that feature entertaining lectures, kid-friendly activities, and arts and crafts. Activities that occupy children over the holiday season might include finger painting, mask-making, and other creative endeavors. These activities foster a sense of community and provide children with a chance to learn about their cultural heritage while celebrating the holiday season.

Many churches across Zambia welcome travelers to join their Christmas services, which often take place on December 24th and 25th.  Major Churches For Christmas Services Seventh-day Adventist Churches: Due to strong membership growth in Zambia, several Adventist congregations perform special Christmas services. These services frequently involve singing, nativity plays, and community outreach initiatives. Travelers can attend celebrations at local Adventist churches in places such as Lusaka and Livingstone. Catholic Churches: The Catholic Church in Zambia also observes Christmas, with midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and services on Christmas Day. These services feature traditional hymns and community gatherings. Major cities, like as Lusaka, have multiple Catholic parishes that welcome guests over the holiday season. Pentecostal and Evangelical Churches: Many Pentecostal and Evangelical churches hold festive Christmas services with music, dance, and theater presentations. These ceremonies frequently emphasize community engagement, inviting participants to bring presents for the less fortunate. Notable churches include the International Church of Lusaka and different branches of the Assemblies of God around the country. Apostolic Churches: Various Apostolic churches, such as the New Apostolic Church and the Apostolic Faith Church, celebrate Christmas with their customs, which may include outdoor services and traditional African music. These churches are common in various parts of Zambia and frequently host special events for both residents and foreigners. Festive Activities Christmas Eve Celebrations: On December 24, many Zambians assemble for midnight services, which are frequently seen as more important than Christmas Day. Carols are usually sung and the birth narrative is acted out throughout the services. Participation of the Community: During these services, it is typical for churchgoers to bring presents to give to less fortunate members of the community. This custom emphasizes the giving mentality that is essential to Zambian Christmas festivities. Since many congregations will have special activities scheduled for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, visitors hoping to attend a Christmas service in Zambia should check the schedules of the local churches.

Major cities, particularly Lusaka and Livingstone, offer delightful displays of Christmas lights and decorations. In Lusaka, popular locations include East Park Mall and Manda Hill, where festive decorations fill the shopping areas and the festive spirit is palpable. Additionally, hotels and restaurants often go all out with elaborate displays to attract guests. In Livingstone, you can find beautiful decorations around hotels near Victoria Falls, creating a picturesque setting for holiday photos. Local churches also contribute to the festive ambiance with their decorations. While Zambia may not have extravagant light displays comparable to larger Western cities, the warmth and simplicity of the decorations reflect the local culture and make for a charming holiday experience.

Yes, Christmas is widely celebrated in Zambia and it holds significant cultural and religious importance. While the festive style incorporates some elements similar to Western celebrations, such as attending church services, exchanging gifts and festive decorations, Zambian traditions add a unique local flavor. Families gather to celebrate with large meals, often featuring traditional dishes alongside Western favorites. It's common to see church services filled with joyful music and dancing, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Zambians emphasize the spirit of togetherness and community during Christmas, focusing on sharing and goodwill. The holiday period is also an opportunity for families to reunite, as many people travel from urban areas to their rural hometowns to celebrate together, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to their cultural roots.

People visiting Zambia find the country to be secure and they appreciate its kindhearted inhabitants as well as its secure governmental framework and its scenic beauty. Tourists need to understand both advantages and potential risks while visiting any travel destination.

In particular, the KAZA UniVisa is only valid at certain entry locations and does not authorize admission from all ports in Zambia. At Zambia's ports of entry, travelers can utilize the KAZA UniVisa: