Zambia travel advice

Most visits to Zambia are trouble free.

Zambia's next Presidential elections will be held in 2011. It is advised that you avoid any political rallies, demonstrations or large gatherings.

Any non-Zambian national overstaying their visa, not renewing their residence permit or working without a permit, including volunteer workers, risk arrest, imprisonment and deportation. A number of British nationals have recently been arrested and charged with immigration offences.

Travellers are advised to exercise caution when in the rural parts the parts of the North Western, Copperbelt, Central and Luapula provinces that are close to the border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly with the rural areas after dark. There are continuing reports of armed cross-border raids from the DRC. Travellers should also be aware that there is a risk of landmines on the Angola side of the Zambia/Angola border, as well as on the Zambia/Mozambique and Zamiba/DRC borders.

The threat from terrorism is low, but travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

Since early January 2008, heavy rains across Zambia have resulted in some flooding, particularly in Southern Province. Road travel may be affected. Travellers should check local reports for more information.

Travellers should avoid taking pictures of sites deemed sensitive by the Zambian government, including power stations, army barracks, airports and government buildings. If in doubt, do not take pictures.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel