How to Get Around in Zambia - All things you must know!

 Tourists may be able to travel in Zambia via regular charter flights, coach, or chauffered vehicles. While ‘mini buses' are still available, they may be packed and may have a reckless driver. Taxis are abundant and typically dependable in towns but ensure to bargain before getting in. For more information, keep reading on this article!

Collins Musonda, Toyota Corolla Taxi, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is the distance between major towns?

The capital of Zambia, Lusaka, does get a lot of flights coming in. The city centre is about 22 kilometres (+14 miles) from the Lusaka International Airport. Hotel and guest home accommodations are available in the city centre. You may connect with airlines to the National Parks from Lusaka International Airport. For instance, you can easily head to popular towns like Livingstone where there are prominent national parks to explore. For accommodation purposes, you can choose a Livingstone hotel the likes of Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara, which is located close to major tourist attractions. Remember that Lusaka is the geographic centre of the country. All main north-south and west-east roadways pass through the city. Since Livingstone is 470 kilometres distant, flying is the best alternative. Lusaka is 591 kilometres away from Kafue National Park – the largest national park in Zambia. Luangwa National Park, one of the greatest in the country, is 123 kilometres from Chipata but is best reached by air. 

What are the current road conditions? 

In a single word, you can describe it as "terrible." Driving in Zambia is difficult due to the lack of roads. While roads are being improved on a regular basis, the nation does have a long road ahead! There are no services accessible on the side of the road. It is best to avoid driving at night. Pedestrians, potholes, and animals all appear out of nowhere. Be mindful of your surroundings. 

What is the best way to move about in Zambia? 

There aren't any regular bus services available in Zambia. Public transportation is provided in the form of poorly maintained twelve-seater minibuses, dilapidated automobiles, dial-up taxis, car rental, and chauffeur-driven vehicles, among other modes. It is recommended that you make use of the dial-up cabs or else the chauffeur-driven automobiles. Make sure to book them in advance for your trip to Zambia.

Car Rentals

In Lusaka, there are several vehicle rental businesses to choose from. Try not to go beyond the city, though, because only 10 per cent to 20 per cent of the roadways are tarred at this time. If your car breaks down in the middle of the road, there aren't any roadside assistance available. So, you must make sure to take every precaution possible to avoid any unpleasant circumstances! There are extremely few tow trucks, ambulances, or other emergency vehicles of any type. Given the conditions, bush mechanics may perform a fantastic job of repairing your car — but their skill is mechanical, not medical, so be cautious!

What are some of the road rules?

In Zambia, the laws of the roads are based on the British system; however, they are seldom enforced until there are accidents. The majority of motorists choose to travel on the left lane. Taxis allow you the freedom to head to any place you choose. However, keep an eye out for them since some can be unreliable.  In contrast to the locals, who may get a driver's license almost anywhere, an International Drivers’ License is necessary. The speed limit here in the urban areas is 50 kilometres per hour, while the speed limit on main highways is 100 kilometres per hour. Please make sure you adhere to these speed limits and other local traffic laws to avoid trouble.