Zambia

With 19 National Parks and other unfenced wilderness areas, a profusion of birds, abundant wildlife, the Victoria Falls and 17 other spectacular waterfalls, the Zambezi, Luangwa and Kafue rivers, a variety of tourist activities to enjoy, its tropical climate and recognised as one of the safest countries in the world, Zambia is definitely worth an extensive visit.

Zambia is a landlocked country in Central Africa bordering 8 different states. Of its 13 million residents, about 10 percent live in the capital Lusaka. In 1855 David Livingstone became the first European ever to set eyes on the magnificent waterfalls on the Zambezi River, which he named after Queen Victoria. The spray and sound of the Victoria Falls can be seen and heard from miles away and Zambians fondly refer to the falls as Mosi-O-Tunya, meaning “the smoke that thunders” in some of the nations dialects. Like many other African nations, the country was colonised during the 19th century, in this case by the British Government under Cecil John Rhodes in 1888. As Zambia gained its independence on 24 October 1964, the country became a republic, with President Michael Sata as the current Head of State.

As a tourist destination, Zambia offers an uncontrived safari experience within its National Parks and protected wilderness areas. Guests can view wildlife from open game drive vehicles, boats and on foot, whilst angling and canoe safaris are other popular safari activities in the bush. The Victoria Falls, combined with a wide range of high adrenalin activities such as bungi jumping, gorge swings and white water rafting, are popular tourist attractions.

The Zambian economy relies heavily on copper mining and the Government is pursuing an economic diversification to reduce the nation’s dependence on this industry by promoting agriculture, tourism, gemstone mining and hydro-power, whilst attracting foreign investors. The Zambian Kwacha is the national currency. United States Dollars are accepted at most tourist establishments and in daily commerce.

The people of Zambia are perhaps its greatest asset; a gentle, polite and well spoken, friendly people who will surely contribute to many of your happy memories of your visit.