Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
» Sections of main highway can be in a pretty bad way and rapidly deteriorating with gap-
ing potholes, ridges, dips and very narrow sections that drop steeply off the side into loose
gravel. Be wary and alert at all times, and seek out information about road conditions.
» Gravel roads vary a lot from pretty good to pretty terrible.
» Road conditions are probably at their worst soon after the end of the wet season (April,
May, June) when many dirt and gravel roads have been washed away or seriously dam-
aged - this is especially the case in and around national parks.
ROAD RULES
» Speed limits in and around cities are enforced, but on the open road buses and Land
Cruisers fly at speeds of 140kph to 160kph.
» If you break down, you must place an orange triangle about 6m in front of and behind
the vehicle.
» At police checkposts (which are very common) smile, say good morning/afternoon, be
very polite and take off your sunglasses. A little respect makes a huge difference to the
way you'll be treated. Mostly you'll be met with a smile, perhaps asked curiously where
you're from, and waved through without a problem.
Hitching
As in any other part of the world, hitching is never entirely safe. Despite this general
warning, hitching is a common way to get around Zambia. Some drivers, particularly ex-
pats, may offer you free lifts, but you should expect to pay for rides with local drivers
(normally about the same as the bus fare, depending on the comfort of the vehicle). In
such cases, agree on a price beforehand.
Taxis
Often the most convenient and comfortable way of getting around, especially in the cities.
They have no meters, so rates are negotiable.
Tours
Tours and safaris around Zambia invariably focus on the national parks. Since many of
these parks are hard to visit without a vehicle, joining a tour might be your only option
anyway. Budget-priced operators run scheduled trips, or arrange things on the spot (with
enough passengers), and can often be booked through a backpackers - try Lusaka Back-
