Money and duty free for Zambia
Currency and Money
Currency information
The Zambian currency is the kwacha (ZMW; symbol K), which is divided into 100 ngwee. Banknotes are issued in denominations of K100, 50, 20, 10, 5, and 2, while coins exist in smaller denominations, though they are less commonly used in daily transactions.
The kwacha is the official legal tender and is used for most everyday purchases. However, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, particularly at hotels, safari lodges, tour operators and for activities priced in USD. Visitors are advised to carry some local currency for smaller transactions, markets and transport, as well as clean, newer US dollar notes if using foreign currency.
Credit cards
Credit card acceptance in Zambia is limited but improving, with Visa and Mastercard accepted at major hotels, safari lodges, supermarkets and some restaurants in cities such as Lusaka and Livingstone; smaller businesses and rural areas usually operate on a cash-only basis.
ATM
ATMs are available in major towns and cities and dispense Zambian kwacha, though machines can be unreliable, may run out of cash or reject foreign cards, so visitors should not rely on them as their sole source of money.
Banking hours
Mon to Fri, 08:15 to 15:30.
Currency restrictions
Travellers entering or leaving Zambia with large sums of cash may be required to declare amounts exceeding the equivalent of US$5,000, and currency regulations can change, so checking current requirements before travel is advised.
Zambia duty free
Overview
The following items may be imported into Zambia by travellers aged 18 and over without incurring customs duty:
• Tobacco products: up to 400 cigarettes or 500g of tobacco.
• Alcoholic beverages: up to 1.5L of spirits or 2.5L of wine or 2.5L of beer.
• General goods with a total value not exceeding US$1,000.
Allowances are subject to change and interpretation by customs officials.
Banned Imports
According to the Zambia Revenue Authority, prohibited imports include narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, firearms and ammunition without the appropriate permits, explosives and fireworks, counterfeit currency and goods, pornographic material, and products made from endangered species such as ivory and certain animal skins. Some plant, animal and food products may also be restricted or require special permits. This list is not exhaustive, and travellers should consult the Zambia Revenue Authority or the nearest Zambian embassy for the most up-to-date information.
Banned Exports
Prohibited exports include ivory, rhinoceros horn and other products derived from protected wildlife, as well as cultural, archaeological or historical artefacts without official authorisation. Restrictions also apply to the export of large amounts of currency, which must be declared to customs. This list is not exhaustive, and travellers are advised to check current regulations with the Zambia Revenue Authority before departure.
