Landscape in Zambia
Country guide · East Africa

Zambia

Afriwhere editorial · 4 min read · updated 6 September 2026

This city is both the largest in the country and serves as Zambia’s economic and political hub. Most of Zambia’s population descends from the various Bantu tribes. The country is also home to a small minority of European and Asian residents.

This city is both the largest in the country and serves as Zambia’s economic and political hub. Most of Zambia’s population descends from the various Bantu tribes. The country is also home to a small minority of European and Asian residents. The official language of Zambia is English. In addition, the country recognizes seven other officially recognized indigenous languages, including Nyanja, Bemba, Tonga, Lozi, Kaonde, Lunda, and Luvale. Roughly half of Zambia’s population adheres to Christianity, while the other half follows traditional African nature religions. Hindus and Muslims, on the other hand, constitute religious minorities in the country.

Attractions in Zambia

Among Zambia’s top tourist attractions are its numerous national parks. Thanks to the many wildlife and nature reserves, visitors can take part in a variety of safaris and guided hikes. It is also possible to stay overnight in the parks at their camps and lodges.

One of these national parks is the Kafue National Park, located in the south. The park, through which the Kafue River flows, boasts a remarkable diversity of bird species. The Lochinvar National Park is also renowned for its birdlife. In addition, visitors can explore the hot Ngwisho Springs in this park. The South Luangwa National Park, however, is particularly known for its large mammal diversity. Here, visitors can observe species such as giraffes, lions, elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and even African wild dogs in their natural habitats.

Location and Climate of Zambia

Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa, bordered by Tanzania, Angola, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Much of Zambia’s terrain consists of high plateaus ranging from 1,000 to 1,400 meters in elevation. The flat regions in the west of the country are covered by the Kalahari Desert.

Zambia has a predominantly mild tropical climate, with two dry seasons and one rainy season. The rainy season lasts from December to April, bringing hot and humid conditions with temperatures reaching up to 38°C (100°F). During this time, heavy rainfall and tropical storms are common. Following the rainy season, the cooler dry season begins, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F) and significantly cooler nights. This cooler dry season gives way to the hot dry season in October, when temperatures can rise to 32°C (90°F).

Entry and Travel

Lusaka International Airport, located about 25 kilometers from the city center, is Zambia’s largest international airport. While there are no direct flights from Germany, some European airports offer direct connections. If traveling from Germany, expect a total flight time of nearly ten hours.

German tourists entering Zambia must carry a valid passport and a visa. Visas can be obtained in advance from the Zambian Embassy in Berlin or upon arrival. However, some airlines may require travelers to present a visa before departure. If entering Zambia directly from Germany, no mandatory vaccinations are required.

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