The Backpackers Guide to Zambia

The warm people of Zambia, numerous water bodies, national parks and traditional festivals make it an ideal country to add to the list of destinations for backpackers trekking across southern Africa. Here are some tips to help you make the most of it.   The backpacker scene The backpacker scene in Zambia is active, with most backpackers starting their journeys from Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. Accommodation serving backpackers in the capital city and the tourist capital Livingstone is plentiful, however lodges and camps in national parks can be on the expensive side, so backpackers should consider carrying their own camping equipment to save costs. A road less traveled: elephants crossing the Luangwa River, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia © Geoff Gallice / WikiCommons   Making the most of it A little language goes a long way As Zambia was a British colony, English is the official language and is widely spoken, especially in large towns such as Lusaka and Livingstone, as well as cities like Ndola and Kitwe. However, in remote areas, one or more of the seven main local languages may be spoken, so it is helpful to learn a few useful phrases in Nyanja (spoken mostly in Lusaka) or Bemba (mostly spoken in the Copperbelt region). Language guidebooks can be purchased at bookstores in Lusaka. Go with the flow There is a local term, “Zambian time,” which describes the sometimes slow process with which government institutions or banks and some restaurants deal with customers, as the the reality is that…

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