Travel To Zambia From South Africa: What You Need To Know

By Azure Lee | Update on: Oct 02, 2024

Zambia is commonly regarded as among the most stunning, hospitable, varied, and pristine nations on the African continent. In addition to the majestic Victoria Falls, Zambia boasts more natural water resources than any other country in Southern Africa, including countless other falls dotted across the country, not to mention the well-known Zambezi River. While vibrant urban areas offer a flavor of Zambia's diverse culture, the several national parks provide excellent opportunities for watching Africa's plains game and predators.

For those planning a journey from South Africa to this remarkable country, understanding the flights, entry requirements, and top attractions will ensure a smooth and unforgettable trip. Here’s everything you need to know about travel to Zambia from South Africa.

Check Zambia Visa Requirements For Visitors

Good news for South African travelers: you don't need a visa for stays of up to 90 days if you're visiting Zambia for tourism. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry and has at least two blank pages in your passport for visa stamps.

For other nationalities, check here for Zambia tourist visa requirements.

Check Zambia visa requirements for visitors

Flights To Zambia From South Africa

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel to Zambia from South Africa. Multiple airlines offer direct flights to Zambia from South Africa's major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban to Zambia’s main international airports: Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone.

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel to Zambia from South Africa

Currency and Payment Methods

• Zambian Kwacha

Although US dollars are often accepted in lodges and hotels across the nation, the Zambian Kwacha is the official currency of the country.

• Payment Methods

If you plan to pay by credit card, be aware that commissions around Victoria Falls are sometimes high, and accommodations further afield may have difficulty processing credit card payments.

While major cities like Lusaka and Livingstone have ATMs and accept credit/debit cards, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in remote areas. You can inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.

Savor the flavors of Zambian cuisine as part of your travel experience. Must-try dishes include:

Exploring Local Cuisine When You Travel To Zambia From South Africa

Savor the flavors of Zambian cuisine as part of your travel experience. Must-try dishes include:

Exploring local cuisine when you travel to Zambia from South Africa

• Nshima

In Zambia, nshima is among the most widely eaten dishes. The national dish is a thick porridge made from mealie meal, a somewhat coarse flour prepared from mealies or maize. It is frequently eaten with the hands and is served with a variety of relishes because it does not have much flavor on its own. Mealie meal and water are all you need to prepare nshima, making it one of the simplest dishes to make.

• Ifinkubala

This unusual delicacy is loved by many Zambians. These tasty caterpillars, which are usually found in the north of the nation, are widely consumed across the nation. Hand-picked fresh caterpillars are often available from November to March during the rainy season. To make them available all year round, they are then dried and emptied of their interior contents.

• Kapenta

In Zambia, kapenta, or little dried fish, is a common snack and side dish. These little fish are typically served with nshima after being fried or stewed. For many Zambians, kapenta is a staple food that is high in protein. Both residents and tourists adore it for its crunchy, salty texture.

Read more about Zambia Food Safari - Exploring The Culinary Delights Of The African Heartland

Must-See Attractions In Zambia For Visitors From South Africa

When visiting Zambia from South Africa, these must-see attractions promise a journey filled with natural wonders, wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences.

• Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, is known locally as"The Smoke that Thunders" by the locals for its amazing mist puffs that can be seen for more than 30 miles in all directions.

The roar and cascading waterfall from a cliff more than a mile wide offers an amazing view of the power and beauty of nature.

Victoria Falls is a fascinating place to visit, offering several chances to take in the breathtaking scenery or feel the excitement of an adventurous adventure.

Victoria Falls is a fascinating place to visit

• Lower Zambezi

Lower Zambezi is a rural area in eastern Zambia that provides visitors with a true African safari experience. It is teeming with wildlife and a stunning blend of vegetation.

The plains are home to herds of buffalo and elephants that are grazing, and while out and about, there is a good possibility you might glimpse an elusive leopard or a boisterous wild dog.

• Livingstone

Nestled beneath the spectacular Victoria Falls, a striking source of water that empties into the vast Zambezi River, lies the quaint city of Livingstone.

Named after legendary explorer David Livingstone, this destination attracts tourists from all over the world, its people and landscapes are fascinating to explore.

• Kafue National Park

Zambia’s oldest national park, Kafue is a true treasure, with its wildlife, flora, and fauna closely protected by the government. Said to be Africa’s second-oldest national park, safari-goers can witness herds of game and look out for crocodiles and hippos from the comfort of their boat.

• South Luangwa National Park

In the South Luangwa National Park, waterholes and grasslands combine to produce a striking panorama that will astound tourists from South Africa with its breathtaking browns, blues, and greens. A nature sanctuary, South Luangwa is home to several bird species, common animals, four of the Big Five, and a large number of hippos.

South Luangwa is home to several bird species, common animals, four of the Big Five

• Lusaka

Zambia's capital city, Lusaka, blends traditional Southern African charm with a moderately modern feel. South African visitors can gain insight into Zambian daily life by visiting the rural areas that envelop a small urban center and participating in cultural activities.

There are lots of marketplaces and cultural landmarks to see, and parks and outdoor pools offer kids an entertaining area to play. Lusaka extends a warm welcome to everyone who visits, whether for a brief stay before or following a safari or a visit to the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

Best Time To Visit Zambia

When planning your travel to Zambia from South Africa, choosing the right time to visit is crucial to ensuring you experience the best of what this diverse country has to offer. 

The dry season which runs from May to October is the best time to travel to Zambia. These months offer delightfully temperate daytime temperatures, making them ideal for wildlife viewing. However, September and October can get very hot. With a subtropical climate, Zambia experiences two distinct seasons: the winter dry months and the summer rainy season.

Because of the lush, thick, and verdant scenery during the rainy season, which runs from December to April, it is frequently referred to as the "Green Season." Because of the sometimes dense foliage and the fact that many animals avoid dry-season water sources, game-watching becomes somewhat more difficult in this area.

Ready For Your Adventure To Zambia?

Visiting Zambia from South Africa promises an unforgettable adventure filled with natural wonders, rich culture, and exciting activities. By understanding the entry requirements, travel options, and local insights, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. 

Get ready to marvel at Victoria Falls, embark on exciting safaris, and immerse yourself in Zambian culture. Pack your bags, book your flights to Zambia from South Africa, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

If you have any questions regarding visas, contact Zambia Immigration Services for answers.