Zambia
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 21.9 million people live in Zambia, on 752,618 km². The capital is Lusaka.
- Capital
- Lusaka
- Population
- 21,913,874
- Area
- 752,618 km²
- Official language
- English
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Zambia?
Sockets take plug type C/D/G, at 230 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Zambia?
Call 999 for the police, 991 for an ambulance and 993 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Zambia?
About 10 %.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Zambia?
Traffic drives on the left, so look right first when you cross the street.
What currency is used in Zambia?
Prices are in Zambian Kwacha (ZMW).
What language do they speak in Zambia?
Official language: English.
How do I call a number in Zambia from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +260.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
