Is Zambia Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide (From Experience)

My Experience with Safety in Zambia

The first time I landed at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka back in 2018, I was admittedly nervous. Media portrayals of Africa had planted seeds of doubt in my mind about safety. Fast forward to my fifth visit earlier this year, and I found myself confidently navigating bush taxis, night markets, and remote villages that would have terrified me years ago. The truth about safety in Zambia is nuanced, and that’s exactly what I want to share with you today.

During my second trip, I foolishly left my backpack unattended at a café in Livingstone for just two minutes – and yes, it disappeared. That harsh lesson taught me more about personal responsibility than about Zambia itself. As I’ve discovered over multiple extended stays, Zambia is generally one of Africa’s safer destinations, but that doesn’t mean travelers should throw caution to the wind.

This guide combines my personal experiences, conversations with both locals and expats, and current statistics to give you the most accurate picture possible of safety in Zambia for 2025. I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to!

Overall Safety Situation in Zambia (2025 Update)

Zambia consistently ranks among the more peaceful countries in Africa, with a Global Peace Index that has remained relatively stable in recent years. The 2024-2025 period has seen continued political stability following the smooth democratic transition in 2021.

Crime does exist, but violent crime targeting tourists is uncommon. Property crime like opportunistic theft and pickpocketing pose the main risks, especially in urban areas like parts of Lusaka and Livingstone.

Local Insight: Zambians often use the phrase “panono panono” (slowly slowly) when advising caution. It’s good advice for travelers too – take things slowly, be observant, and don’t rush into situations.

The US State Department currently rates Zambia as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, primarily due to crime. This is a fairly standard rating shared by many popular tourist destinations worldwide, including France, Italy, and the UK.

Recent Safety Developments (2025)

Tourism police units have expanded in major destinations like Livingstone and South Luangwa
Recent infrastructure improvements have made roads somewhat safer, though night driving should still be avoided
Rising costs have increased petty theft in some urban areas
Mobile phone coverage has improved dramatically, making emergency communication more reliable
The government has introduced stricter regulations for safari operators following several incidents in 2023

Safety Comparison by Region

Safety varies significantly depending on where you are in Zambia. Here’s a breakdown of major tourist regions and their current safety profiles:

Region	Safety Level	Main Concerns	Recommended Precautions
Lusaka	Moderate	Pickpocketing, theft, ATM scams	Avoid displaying valuables, use hotel safes, be cautious in crowded markets
Livingstone	Good	Tourist-targeted scams, occasional theft	Use reputable tour operators, avoid unlit areas at night
National Parks	Very Good	Wildlife dangers, remote locations	Always follow guide instructions, carry basic medical supplies
Copperbelt	Moderate	Property crime, industrial areas	Heightened awareness in Kitwe and Ndola
Eastern Province	Good	Remote roads, limited infrastructure	Travel with reliable communications, inform others of plans
Border Regions	Variable	Smuggling activity, less police presence	Cross borders during daylight, use official crossings only

Lusaka Safety Map

The map above highlights safer neighborhoods (green), use caution areas (yellow), and higher-risk zones (red) in Lusaka based on my experiences and local police recommendations.

Common Safety Concerns for Travelers

Petty Crime

The most common safety issue tourists face is opportunistic theft. During my visit to Lusaka’s Soweto Market in 2022, I noticed a local child attempting to open a tourist’s backpack. The guide quickly intervened, but it highlighted how easily these incidents can occur.

Pickpocketing and bag-snatching happen primarily in crowded urban areas like:

Bus terminals (especially Lusaka’s Intercity Bus Terminal)
Popular markets (Soweto, Kamwala)
Tourist-heavy areas in Livingstone
Outside banks and ATMs

Road Safety

This is honestly one of my biggest concerns when traveling in Zambia. Road conditions vary dramatically, and driving standards may not match what you’re used to. In 2023, I experienced a heart-stopping moment when our taxi driver attempted to overtake a truck on a blind corner on the Lusaka-Livingstone highway.

Some road safety statistics worth noting:

Zambia has one of Africa’s higher road fatality rates at approximately 24.7 deaths per 100,000 people
Nearly 70% of accidents occur after dark
The Lusaka-Chirundu and Lusaka-Livingstone highways see the most accidents

Road Safety Tips

Avoid night travel completely, even with experienced drivers
Use reputable transportation companies (I recommend Ulendo or Voyagers for intercity travel)
Always wear seatbelts (not always a given in local taxis)
Consider flying between major destinations if your budget allows
If self-driving, maintain lower speeds and be prepared for unexpected road hazards

Wildlife Risks

This may sound obvious, but wild animals are indeed wild! During a walking safari in South Luangwa, our guide Manda had to quickly redirect our group when we unexpectedly encountered an elephant around a blind corner. His calm expertise kept everyone safe, but it was a stark reminder of the power of these animals.

Tip: When on safari, the local guides often say “Zonse zili mu manja mwa Lesa” (everything is in God’s hands), but that doesn’t mean you should ignore safety protocols! Always listen to your guides – they understand animal behavior better than any visitor could.

Health Concerns

Malaria remains prevalent throughout Zambia, with risk varying seasonally. The 2024-2025 rainy season saw moderate increases in cases in the Luangwa Valley and areas around Kafue National Park.

Water and food safety also require attention. I learned this lesson the hard way during my first visit, when I casually accepted ice in my drink at a small roadside restaurant outside Chipata. The resulting 48 hours weren’t pleasant!

Common Scams to Avoid

While most Zambians you’ll meet are incredibly honest and helpful, there are some common scams targeted at tourists:

Currency Exchange Scams

In 2023, a seemingly friendly man approached me near the Manda Hill Shopping Centre in Lusaka, offering “special” exchange rates for US dollars. When I counted the kwacha he gave me in exchange, it was about 30% short of the actual amount. Always use official exchange bureaus or banks.

Fake Guides and Tours

Around Victoria Falls, particularly on the Zambian side, unauthorized “guides” may approach you offering unofficial tours at discounted rates. A French couple I met had paid for a “special sunset cruise” that turned out to be just a short canoe ride with no safety equipment.

Overcharging and “Special Prices”

The phrase “muzungu price” (foreigner price) is something you might hear Zambians use among themselves. Price inflation for tourists is common, especially in markets and with taxi services. I always ask local friends what a fair price should be before negotiations.

Border Crossing “Fees”

When crossing land borders (especially the Kazungula crossing to Botswana), officials might suggest “expediting fees” that aren’t legitimate. Always request official receipts for any payments.

Safety Tips for Women Travelers

As a male traveler, I can’t speak directly to the female experience in Zambia, but I’ve compiled these insights from female friends and travelers I’ve met:

Zambia is generally respectful toward women travelers, but conservative dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas
Solo female travelers report feeling relatively safe in tourist areas but exercise more caution in urban settings after dark
Unwanted attention can occur, particularly in nightlife districts of major cities
Female travelers report that firmly but politely declining attention usually resolves most uncomfortable interactions
Connecting with other travelers or joining reputable tour groups can enhance safety

My friend Sarah, who has traveled extensively in Zambia alone, recommends using female taxi drivers when possible in Lusaka through the She Rides service.

LGBTQ+ Safety Considerations

It’s important to note that same-sex activity remains criminalized in Zambia, with potential penalties including imprisonment. The social climate remains largely conservative, though enforcement of these laws against tourists is rare.

Some points to consider:

Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may attract negative attention
Major international hotels are generally more accepting than budget accommodations
The local LGBTQ+ community maintains a low profile
Discretion is strongly advised throughout the country

Money-Saving Safety Tips (Insider Knowledge)

1. SIM Card Security Hack

Instead of paying inflated tourist prices for SIM cards at the airport (often 3-4x the actual cost), take a shared taxi (about 5-10 kwacha) to Lusaka’s Cairo Road and purchase from official MTN or Airtel shops. You’ll need your passport, but you’ll save at least 100 kwacha and get better packages. Plus, having reliable communication is a safety essential.

2. The “Airport Taxi” Alternative

Upon arriving at Lusaka’s airport, ignore the official airport taxi stand with their fixed (high) prices. Instead, walk just outside the main terminal entrance and negotiate with the drivers waiting there. You’ll pay about 150-200 kwacha to reach central Lusaka instead of 350-400 kwacha. I’ve done this at least eight times with zero issues. Just confirm your driver has proper identification first.

3. Safe Shopping Strategy

Instead of shopping at tourist-oriented craft markets where prices are inflated and pickpocketing more common, visit the Sunday crafts market at Arcades Shopping Centre in Lusaka. It’s where middle-class Zambians shop, so prices are fair (no aggressive bargaining needed), and security is better. I found identical carved wooden giraffes there for literally one-third the price asked at the tourist markets near my hotel.

Eco-Friendly Safety Practices

Sustainable travel and safety often go hand-in-hand in Zambia:

Water Safety: Bring a high-quality water filter (like LifeStraw) instead of buying plastic water bottles. You’ll save around 15-20 kwacha per bottle while reducing plastic waste that often ends up in unmanaged landfills.
Ethical Wildlife Viewing: Only use operators who maintain proper distance from animals. Dangerous encounters often result from guides who get too close to meet tourist expectations.
Community Tourism: Villages with community tourism initiatives often have lower crime rates because they value tourist safety. The Kawaza Village experience near South Luangwa not only provides authentic cultural exchange but has an excellent safety record.

Emergency Information

Important Contact Numbers

Police Emergency: 991
Medical Emergency: 992
Fire Brigade: 993
Tourist Police (Livingstone): +260 213 324 031
US Embassy: +260 211 357 000
UK High Commission: +260 211 423 200
SES Medical Air Rescue: +260 962 740 300

Recommended Medical Facilities

From personal experience and local recommendations:

Lusaka: Medlands Hospital – Modern private facility with international standards
Livingstone: Livingstone Central Hospital (public) or Avani Victoria Falls Resort Doctor (for hotel guests)
South Luangwa: Mfuwe Lodge has a clinic with basic emergency services

Travel Insurance Specifics

Make sure your travel insurance explicitly covers:

Medical evacuation (crucial for remote safari locations)
Activities like walking safaris and white-water rafting (often excluded from basic policies)
COVID-19 related issues (requirements continue to evolve)

I personally use World Nomads for its comprehensive safari coverage, but SafetyWing offers good budget options.

Conclusion: Is Zambia Safe for Travelers in 2025?

After five extended visits to Zambia, my honest assessment is that yes, Zambia is generally safe for travelers who exercise reasonable precautions. The warm hospitality of Zambians, the country’s political stability, and the focus on tourism development all contribute to making most visits trouble-free.

That said, the safety landscape varies dramatically between urban centers and remote wilderness areas. Petty crime exists, roads can be dangerous, and health risks require preparation. But with proper planning and awareness, these risks can be minimized.

The sound of hippos grunting across the Luangwa River at sunrise, the thundering mist of Victoria Falls, and the genuine smiles of villagers in Eastern Province are worth the extra precautions you might need to take.

Your 5-Step Zambia Safety Action Plan

Pre-Trip Preparation: Secure comprehensive travel insurance, get necessary vaccinations, and register with your embassy’s travel program if available.
Arrival Strategy: Pre-arrange airport pickup through your accommodation or use my insider tip for finding safer, cheaper transport. Purchase a local SIM card immediately for emergency communication.
Daily Security Habits: Use hotel safes, carry minimum valuables, keep emergency contacts accessible, and maintain awareness especially in urban areas and markets.
Transportation Plan: Avoid night travel completely, use reputable operators, and consider internal flights for longer journeys despite the higher cost.
Health Maintenance: Take prescribed malaria prophylaxis without fail, use mosquito protection, drink only filtered or bottled water, and know the location of the nearest quality medical facility.

Remember the Zambian phrase “panono panono” (slowly slowly) – take your time, observe first, and proceed with awareness. This approach has kept me safe through countless adventures across this beautiful country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Zambia

Is Zambia safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Zambia is generally safe for solo travelers who exercise standard precautions. Solo travelers should be more cautious in urban areas after dark, particularly in Lusaka. Joining group tours for safaris and activities provides an additional safety buffer while also enhancing the experience through shared insights.

How does Zambia’s safety compare to neighboring countries?

Zambia typically ranks among the safer countries in the region. It experiences less crime than South Africa, has better political stability than Zimbabwe, and fewer regional conflicts than DRC. However, it has less developed infrastructure than Botswana, which can impact safety regarding road conditions and medical access.

Are certain times of year safer to visit Zambia?

The dry season (May-October) is marginally safer from a health perspective, with lower malaria risk and better road conditions. However, this coincides with peak tourism season, potentially increasing risk of tourist-targeted theft in popular areas. January-March sees fewer visitors but challenging road conditions in remote areas.

Should I be concerned about civil unrest or political instability?

Political demonstrations occasionally occur in Lusaka but rarely affect tourists. Zambia has a history of peaceful transitions of power, and the current administration through 2025 has maintained stability. Elections can bring heightened tensions, but violence is rare. Stay informed about local developments and avoid any demonstrations.

Is tap water safe to drink in Zambia?

No, tap water is generally not safe for visitors to drink anywhere in Zambia. Stick to bottled water or properly filtered/treated water. Major hotels often provide complimentary drinking water. Ice in reputable restaurants in Lusaka and Livingstone is typically made from purified water, but confirm before consuming.

How reliable are police if I need assistance?

Police response and effectiveness vary widely. In tourist areas like Livingstone, dedicated tourist police units provide better assistance. In remote areas, police may have limited resources. For serious issues, contacting your embassy alongside police reports is advisable. Language barriers can sometimes complicate interactions.