Money
Zambia’s currency is the kwacha. Inflation is high in Zambia and because of this many prices are quoted in US dollars as well as the kwacha. In the larger towns, you can change cash and travellers cheques at some banks, and larger branches have ATMs that accept Visa. Its also fairly easy to find Bureau de Change in most towns.
Most hotels and some shops and restaurants accept debit or credit cards, but be prepared to pay surcharges. Cash is by far the most common means of payment, and bartering is common – many shopkeepers advertise prices and stick to them, but there is also a strong culture which includes street salesmen and taxi drivers who tend to haggle on their prices. As prices go, Zambia is fairly expensive when compared to its neighbours, but the country does offer deals at both extremes, and if you are holidaying on a budget good bargains can be found, just as luxury options are offered to those with more money to spare.
Dangers & annoyances
Zambia is fairly safe, though in the cities and tourist areas there is a chance of being targeted by muggers or con-artists. As always, you can reduce the risk considerably by being sensible. The Zambian people are a friendly race on the whole, but be careful about walking or driving after dark, when there is an increased risk of mugging or car-jacking. Streetlighting is poor at best, so staying in groups is recommended if you do need to venture out after dark.
Another thing to watch out for is hygiene, as it is easy to pick up tropical germs if you are careless. Proper toilet and washing facilities are unlikely outside of the major cities, as is running water. Do not drink the tap water! Bottled water is widely available in cities, but not necessarily in rural areas, so if travelling take some with you.
Malaria is common in Zambia, so make sure you keep exposed skin covered with clothing or insect repellent, especially at dusk
To contact the Emergency Services, dial 999 or 112. Emergency response vehicles are rare though, and almost unknown outside of the cities.
Visas
Due to the recent boom in tourism in Zambia, the country now generally expects cash at the border in return for a visa being issued. Most Western visitors obtain visas this way; some are able to enter visa-free. For confirmation of your own visa needs, check the immigration department’s website, which will also tell you where visas can be obtained before arrival.
Language
English is one of Zambia's eight official languages, and is the one spoken most often by public services. There are over 70 different Bantu languages spoken here as well .Many town-dwelling Zambians will speak some level of English, but is rarer as you move towards rural areas. The most important thing to remember is the politeness of the first exchange – greeting them civilly gets things off to a good start, so remember to ask "How are you?" ("Muli Bwanji?" or "Muli Shani?") .
