10 Practical Tips for Traveling in Zambia: Malaria Prevention and Victoria Falls Devil’s Pool Booking Info
Practical Tips
2026-10-03
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Malaria prevention, booking slots for Devil’s Pool, how to split your cash between US dollars and Zambian kwacha, age and dress requirements for walking safaris—here’s a clear rundown of the ten most easily overlooked things to know before traveling to Zambia.
- Malaria prevention is your top priority: Low-altitude areas across the country carry year-round risk. Take prescribed prophylactic medication, wear long sleeves and apply insect repellent around sunset, always use mosquito nets at campsites, and seek medical attention and testing immediately if you develop a high fever.
- Book Devil’s Pool by season: It’s typically open from around August to December during the dry season when water levels are low. It closes during the rainy season when water flow is too strong. Plan your itinerary around these opening periods, and check official waterfall monitoring sites for current water level data.
- Cash currency mix: US dollars are required for visa fees and park entry tickets, while kwacha is used for daily meals and transport. Prepare your cash with a 60/40 split between dollars and kwacha. Credit cards work in city malls as a backup, but make sure to exchange enough cash before leaving major urban areas.
- Walking safaris have requirements: Most camps require participants to be at least 12–16 years old and in good physical condition. Pregnant women and those with a history of heart conditions must inform their guide in advance. The standard tipping practice is around US$10–15 per guided walk.
- Clothing color matters: Wear earth tones like khaki and military green on safari to avoid attracting tsetse flies (avoid black, blue, and bright colors). Always pack long anti-mosquito pants for nighttime at campsites.
- Big temperature swings in the dry season: Morning game drives can get as cold as 8°C, so bring fleece layers and a windproof jacket—camping essentials. Don’t be fooled by the idea that “Africa is always hot.”
- Get your Zimbabwe visa in advance: A single-entry visa doesn’t allow same-day returns between the two sides of Victoria Falls. Check before you go whether the KAZA Uni-Visa has been reinstated.
- Yellow card and vaccinations: Your yellow fever vaccination certificate will be checked upon entry. It’s also advisable to consult about typhoid, hepatitis A, and pre-exposure rabies vaccinations.
- Internet and communication: MTN and Airtel tourist SIM cards offer coverage in major cities and some parks. In remote camps, rely on radios or satellite phones, and ask camp staff to pass on any important messages.
- Politeness goes a long way: Saying “Muli shani” with a handshake can turn a market vendor’s “tourist price” into the local rate. When tipping, hand the money directly to the person.