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Fast
facts |
Zimbabwe |
Zambia |
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| Capital city:
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Harare
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Lusaka |
| Country size:
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390 000 km²
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752,614 km² |
| Population:
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12,746,990
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11,261,795 |
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Main languages:
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English (official), Shona and Sindebele (the language of the Ndebele, sometimes called Ndebele)
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English (official),
Bemba, Kaonda, Lozi, Lunda, Luvale, Nyanja and Tonga |
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Head of State:
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President Robert Gabriel Mugabe
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President Levy Mwanawasa
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People:
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African 98% (Shona 82%, Ndebele 14%, other 2%), mixed and Asian 1%, white less than 1%
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African 98.7%, European 1.1%, other 0.2% |
| Religion:
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50% Syncretic (part Christian, part indigenous beliefs), 25% Christian, 24% indigenous beliefs
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50%-75% Christian, 24%-49% Muslim and Hindu, 1% indigenous beliefs |
| Electricity:
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220/240 volts AC 50 Hertz
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220-240 V-AC, 50 Hz |
| Dialling code:
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263
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260 |
| Measurements:
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metric system
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metric system |
| Neighbouring countries:
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South Africa (S), Botswana (SW), Zambia (NW) and Mozambique (NE, E & SE)
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Angola (W), Namibia (S), Zimbabwe and Mozambique (SE), Malawi (E), Tanzania (NE) and Democratic Republic of the Congo (NW) |
| Main rivers:
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The principal rivers are the Sabi and
Lundi, although the principal drainage system is provided by the Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers.
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The principal river is the Zambezi with its three major tributaries, the
Kabompo, Kafue and Luangwa Rivers. |
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Highest mountains:
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Inyangani Mountain in Nyanga National Park in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe is the highest mountain in the country Highest peak: Inyangani 2,592 m
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Mafinga Hills 2,301 m |
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Public Holidays |
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| Zambia |
Zimbabwe |
1 January -
New Year
Second Monday in March - Youth Day
March/April - Good Friday
March/April - Easter Monday
1 May - Labour Day
25 May - African Freedom Day
First Monday in July - Heroes’ Day
First Tuesday in July - Unity Day
5 August - Farmer’s Day
12 August - Defence Day
24 October - Independence Day
1 November - All Saint’s Day
25 December - Christmas Day |
1 January -
New Year’s Day.
March/April - Good Friday.
March/April - Easter Monday.
18 April - Independence Day.
1 May - Workers’ Day.
25 May - Africa Day.
First Monday after August 7 - Heroes’ Day.
First Tuesday after August 8 - Defence
Forces Day.
22 December - Unity Day.
25-26 December - Christmas. |
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Best time
to go |
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The Victoria Falls has two
main ‘viewing seasons’ and depending on the time of
year, you may fall anywhere in between these two. The
peak flood season takes place during March and April and
is ideal if you’d like to see the falls in their full
glory. Masses of water cascade down into the river below
creating a magnificent cloud of spray around the area.
During the height of the flood season, this cloud can be
seen from 80km away! As a result, the full magnitude of
the falls cannot be viewed in its entirety from afoot.
We therefore recommend you take a helicopter ride or, if
you’re really brave – a microlite flight for
breathtaking aerial views.
As we approach the dry season between November and
December, the amount of water that passes over the falls
decreases until only small rivers of water can be seen,
but as a result the view from below becomes increasingly
impressive. One can really begin to appreciate the scope
and magnificence of the falls during this period.
Zambia
The best time to visit Zambia depends on the reason for
your visit. Popular activities include game viewing,
bird watching, water sports and viewing the magnificent
Victoria Falls.
Game viewing
The ideal time for game viewing is between August and
October. Be prepared to face temperatures of up to 32° C
by the end of October though, especially at low
altitudes (most national parks fall in these areas). If
you prefer cooler, greener surrounds; we recommend the
months of May to August.
During the very wet rainy season of December to April
the abundant vegetation in game parks make it difficult
to spot wild life. For this reason most of the parks are
closed. Those that do however stay open tend to offer
very attractive rates, but note that many of the rural
roads become extremely muddy during this period, making
it quite difficult to travel.
Bird watching
Birdwatchers will be happy to know that Zambia’s
birdlife can be viewed all year round. The breeding
season for most of the migrant birds in the southern
hemisphere falls between September and mid April, with
the best sightings from November to December.
Water rafting
During August to December the Zambezi is at its
lowest levels, making for ideal rafting conditions.
During high water activities are limited.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s and Zambia’s seasons fall on very similar
months, give or take a month. Zimbabwe’s winter lasts a
month or so longer (May to September/October vs.
Zambia’s May to August), while its rainy season starts
and ends a month earlier than Zambia’s (November to
March vs. Zambia’s December to April).
Travel and Wild life
The Zimbabwean winter months are much more pleasant
than the hot summer months, making them ideal for
travelling and game viewing. But don’t be deceived - the
winter nights can become surprisingly cold (temperatures
can drop below freezing). Make sure to pack a jersey or
jumper for early mornings and evenings. The days are
ideal for game viewing as the animals tend to congregate
near water holes and are therefore more easily observed.
Water sports
For river rafters and other water sport enthusiasts,
the best time of year falls between August and December
when the levels of the mighty Zambezi River are low.
Crowds
During the South African school holidays (mid-April
to mid-May and mid-July to mid-September) the tourist
sites and national parks are quite crowded. December and
early January are slightly better (Namibian school
holidays) but the best time is in June when the weather
is also pleasantly cool. |
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| Climate |
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Vic Falls
Temperatures in summer usually reach a maximum of 34°C
and during winter they decrease to around 7°C. During
summer the heavy cloud of spray creates a constant wet
environment – and waterproof coats/rain macs and
waterproof shoes or all weather sandals are a must.
Zimbabwe
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Zambia |
Winter: May to
September/October
Summer: October to April
Rainy Season: November to March
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Winter May to
August
Summer: September to April
Rainy Season: December to April |
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Zimbabwe
Although Zimbabwe is entirely situated in the tropics,
its high altitude causes much milder conditions than one
would expect.
Its dry winter season (May to September/October) is
pleasantly temperate with warm sunny days and cool,
clear nights. This is the best time of year to view
wildlife as the animals stay within close proximity of
the watering holes and are therefore easy to locate. Day
temperatures average around 20°C, while nights can be
much colder – dropping to as low as 5°C. However,
freezing temperatures are not uncommon on the plateau.
Zimbabwe’s summer lasts from October to April when
temperatures can rise up to 30°C, with nights at a
moderate 14°C. The rainy season runs from November to
March and is often characterised by afternoon thunder
showers. These come as a great relief and usually fall
in brief but heavy surges. Rainfall ranges from 630mm in
Kariba (Zimbabwe’s driest region) to 2000mm in the
Eastern Highlands where it rains all year round. The
Zambezi Valley and Lowveld regions are hotter and more
humid than the rest of the country and may also receive
rain during winter months.
Zimbabwe doesn’t really have distinguishable springs and
autumns, although the mopane trees found on the highveld
change colour throughout the winter months, ranging from
orange to yellow to red.
Zambia
Similar to Zimbabwe, Zambia lies in the tropics but
has a moderate climate as a result of its altitude. This
however, does not mean that it can’t become unbearably
hot, especially in the valleys and low lying areas. The
highlands experience cooler conditions. Generally
speaking, Zambia is hot all year round. The three
distinct seasons can be described as the cool dry season
from May to August; the hot dry season from September to
November and the hot rainy season from December to
April.
The summer rainfall varies from region to region but is
heaviest in the Northern provinces where averages of
1250mm per year are common. This decreases towards
Lusaka (750mm) and hits a low in the south and south
western regions (500mm). The beginning of the rainy
season is characterised by heavy tropical storms. Very
little rainfall is experienced during the rest of the
year.
During winter the central plateau may experience light
frosts.
Average temperatures for the whole country range between
25°C and 35°C in summer and 6°C to 24°C in winter, while
Lusaka’s temperatures are slightly less extreme, ranging
between 9°C and 23°C in winter and 18°C and 31°C in
summer.
Clothing that will suit the climate include lightweight,
tropical outfits and rainwear (when visiting in summer).
Although it never gets extremely cold (compared to the
climates of Europe), a couple of jerseys or warm coats
are recommended for winter months. |
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Time Zone |
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Zimbabwe
and Zambia
Time: GMT + 2 Hours |
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Money
Matters |
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US$ are
widely accepted and in some instances the only
acceptable currency.
To avoid theft, scams and fraud, make sure to only
exchange your money at licensed bureau de changes and
banks which are available in the major towns and cities.
When planning to visit the rural areas, ensure you
obtain a supply of the local currency before your
departure.
Zimbabwe
The unit of currency in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean
Dollar (Z$), which is divided into 100 Cents. Notes come
in denominations of five, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars.
Coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents and
ZW$1 and ZW$2.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) is understood to be
considering introducing new Z $5 000, Z$10 000 and Z$20
000 notes to replace its "bearer's cheques" because of
widespread abuse of the cheques, ZimOnline has learnt.
(Millions of cheap counterfeit cheques have been
circulating the banking system).
Zimbabwe is going through a time of great economic
turmoil, which often leads to really cheap prices for
foreign visitors. This does not however mean that you
should let your guard down, as it is very easy to be
overcharged for simple products and services. The best
way to avoid getting taken for a ride, is to exchange
your foreign currency for the local Z$ upon arrival and
then to only pay for local goods in Z$. If you do
however decide to pay in foreign currency, make sure to
ask for the most recent exchange rate.
It is custom to tip taxi drivers and international-class
hotel and restaurant staff 10% of the bill. Some places
automatically include this fee in their service charge.
At the informal establishments (street markets and
stalls), you’ll be able to negotiate a better price for
most items. Swapping is also quite popular and the local
vendors will welcome the odd pen, set of batteries or
personal item in exchange for their arts and crafts.
Zambia
The unit of currency in Zambia is the Zambian kwacha (K,
Zk or kw), which is divided into 100 Ngwee. The currency
has denominations of 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000 and 10
000, 20 000 and 50 000 kwacha notes. Coins used to be
available in 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 Ngwee and K1 but have
since become redundant as a result of the past
devaluation of the currency.
The same goes for K20 notes as most markets and shops
will only accept k500 and above.
All the adventure and tourism operators quote their
prices in US Dollars but accept the local currency at
the daily exchange rate.
As in Zimbabwe, 10% of your bill for taxi drivers and
restaurant staff is custom.
For professional guides, drivers (safari trips) and
lodge or camp staff it is usually appropriate to tip
between US$3 and US$5 per day. Exceptional service
sometimes calls for more, but you may use your own
discretion. Many lodges have a staff tip box located in
their reception area which ensures that all tips are
divided equally between porters, waiters and other
staff. Exceptional service from a particular member of
staff can be rewarded with a personal tip. |
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Interesting facts |
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Victoria Falls
• David Livingstone was the first European to discover
the Victoria Falls in November 17, 1855. He named the
falls after his country’s queen.
• The native name for Victoria Falls is Mosi-oa-tunya
and means ‘the smoke that thunders’.
• Victoria Falls is classified as one the seven wonders
of the natural world.
• The waterfall is so large that it is divided into five
different parts namely: the Devil's Cataract, Cataract
Island, the Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and the Eastern
Cataract.
• Victoria Falls is twice as large and twice as wide as
Niagara Falls.
Zimbabwe
• Zimbabwe is the country with the highest adult
literacy (90 percent) and the highest female literacy
(86 percent) rate in Southern Africa.
• Zimbabwe was the centre of the wealthiest and most
powerful society in southern Africa from the 11th to
16th century (because of trade between the local Shonas
and Swahili traders).
Zambia
• Zambia has 73 identified language groups, all of
these are Bantu speaking and each of these has its own
cultural identity including social systems and its own
tradition territory.
• In a poll taken among foreign diplomats in 1996,
Lusaka was voted the capital city with the most pleasant
climate worldwide.
• The nearest ocean to Zambia is 965 kilometres away.
• Zambia has the largest edible mushroom in the world (Termitomyces
titanicus). It can reach and astonishing 3m in diameter!
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Medical
services |
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Both Zimbabwe and Zambia
have limited medical facilities. Most large towns have
public hospitals, clinics and doctors but the further
one moves from the urban surroundings, the poorer the
services become.
Visitors are responsible for their own medical
requirements and are advised to take out comprehensive
medical insurance before embarking on their visit. Such
insurance should include casualty evacuation to South
Africa in case of political unrest.
Zambia
Lusaka, Livingstone and Ndola are the only locations
where adequate medical services are available. There are
also a few small clinics in Lusaka which are less
adequate than the above facilities but still in a better
state than the general hospitals. Rural clinics should
be avoided, wherever possible.
The overall standard of the private hospitals in Lusaka
are satisfactory although their facilities are limited.
Private doctors, chemists/pharmacies and other medical
practitioners are also available in Lusaka. Wherever
possible, we recommend that you make use of their
services instead of seeking assistance outside of the
city.
Some rural areas have mission hospitals which provide a
fair service, usually superior to that of government
hospitals.
Zimbabwe
Private Hospitals, offering good quality medical
services are available in Harare and Bulawayo. Although
these hospitals operate with limited facilities, they
offer reasonably good medical services. Most of the
larger towns, including Harare and Bulawayo have private
doctors, chemists/pharmacies, and other medical
practitioners for all your medical requirements.
Malaria
Both Zambia and Zimbabwe are classified as Malaria
regions. Most areas in Zambia are vulnerable, while
Zimbabwe’s Lowveld areas (South East), low-elevation
areas along the Limpopo River and in the Zambezi River
Valley along the entire Northern Zimbabwe/Zambia border.
We highly recommend that visitors take the necessary
precautions when visiting these areas. In addition to
taking anti-malaria tablets (Prophylactics) which can be
obtained from your local pharmacist/chemist or doctor,
visitors should wear ample amounts of insect repellent,
especially during the evenings or when planning to walk
through tall grass. Various repellents are available
from Zambian and Zimbabwean supermarkets and can be
applied directly to the skin. Long-sleeved clothing and
socks are also recommended at night. Most hotels and
resorts have mosquito nets in their rooms which provide
relief.
Visitors should start taking their Prophylactics at
least 24 hours before entering the country. Make sure to
inform your doctor or pharmacist of the exact areas you
plan to visit, as different areas have different types
of malaria parasite. You will also need to continue
taking the pills for at least six weeks after your
departure from the malaria regions to ensure you don’t
develop symptoms.
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is very prevalent in Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Visitors are strongly discouraged to engage in any
high-risk sexual or drug-related activities.
While condoms are available from pharmacies/chemists and
some supermarkets, their effectiveness can sometimes be
a bit questionable. Visitors are therefore encouraged to
check them thoroughly before use, or alternatively to
purchase a supply before leaving for their destination.
Vaccinations:
Victoria Falls
All visitors to the Victoria Falls need to have been
vaccinated against yellow fever and require an
International Certificate of Vaccination as proof.
Zambia
Visitors to northern and western Zambia require an
International Certificate of Vaccination against yellow
fever. Those who pass over a yellow fever and cholera
region also need to produce a valid certificate of
immunisation.
Zimbabwe
Visitors planning to enter Zimbabwe from a yellow fever
or cholera infected area (further north in Africa,
including Zambia) will be required to show proof of
vaccination against these diseases in the form of a
valid International Certificate of Vaccination.
We recommend that visitors keep their certificates close
at hand at all times, as proof of vaccination is
sometimes required. If you like, you can staple it in to
the front of your passport. The following vaccines may
be recommended although not compulsory for your travel
to Zimbabwe and Zambia: Hepatitis A and B; Rabies;
Typhoid; Meningitis; booster doses for
tetanus-diphtheria, measles and a one-time dose of polio
vaccine for adults.
We advise you to discuss your itinerary with your doctor
to establish which vaccines will be required.
Swimming in Zambia and Zimbabwe’s rivers and dams is not
advisable as some of them have been known to carry
bilharzia. However, water sport fanatics needn’t be too
worried as regular towelling off, as soon as one leaves
the water, reduces the risk.
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Main attractions |
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Wet
• White Water Rafting (day trips and expeditions)
• River Cruises (Breakfast, Lunch, Sundown and
Ornithologist's cruises available)
• Tandem Kayaking
• River boarding
• Jet Boating
• Canoeing (upper and lower Zambezi)
• River Safaris
Dry
• Victoria Falls Bridge
• The world’s highest free-standing bungee jump
• The Zambezi Swing (For about $100, this South African
group lets you abseil, rap jump, do a zip line, and --
the highlight -- a gorge swing. While Bungi Jumping is
over in a few minutes, these guys let you play all day).
• Hot air ballooning
• Abseiling, high-wiring, rap-jumping and gorge-swinging
• Game drives (half and full day, night drives)
• Tours (Traditional, Cultural, Zambezi Nature
Sanctuary, Falls Tour)
• Aerial trips (microlight, ultralight, helicopter and
fixed-wing flights)
• Hiking trails and nature walks
• Horseback and Elephant Trails
• Steam Train Rides
• Snake Park
• Mukuni Victoria Falls Craft Village (Curios )
• Adventure Centre in Livingstone Town
• Livingstone Island (where David Livingstone had his
first glimpse of the falls).
• Victoria Falls Field Museum.
• Railway Museum
• Mosi O Tunya National Park
• Mukuni Village (authentic tribal village)
• Quick access to Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. |
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Things to
buy |
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Victoria Falls
A variety of crafts and curios are available at the Mukuni Victoria Falls Craft
Village.
Look out for elaborate animal carvings in wood, stone, or green malachite.
Masks, drums, marimbas, jewellery, spoons, walking sticks, book ends, and other
authentic African items.
Compare items before purchasing as quality differs from vendor to vendor.
Bartering is welcome and vendors will usually part with their work for items
such as shoes, batteries, t-shirts etc. If you are courageous enough to
try brave the Bungee Jump, the mighty Zambezi on a raft or any of the various
other extreme activities - make sure to buy the t-shirt. This will serve as your
‘badge of honour’ to show off to your friends back home.
Zambia
Good quality baskets can be found at the Livingstone Museum.
Zimbabwe
Look out for articles made from Zimbabwe Copper and semiprecious gemstone
jewellery.
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Contact:
African Encounters |
Postnet
Suite 45
Private Bag x 12
Roosevelt Park
2129 |
Tel:
(011) 880 3079
Fax: (011) 447 6773
email: info@africanencounters.com |
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