TRAVEL

We drive on the left-hand side of the road in Zambia and observe standard British driving rules. There are some very picturesque roads, but it is important to be aware of certain issues to ensure your comfort and safety.

Road conditions: Some road conditions in Zambia are extremely bad and you should take due care when driving on unsurfaced roads and where bad tarred road conditions exist. Huge potholes can appear suddenly in the middle of a perfect tarred road without warning always be prepared.

Obstructions: Villages are often located along the edge of roads which results in dogs, goats, children, oxen carts, drunks, chickens, cattle and bicyclists using the road. The majority of Zambians do not have driving licences and are not familiar with general road traffic safety precautions. Please be very aware of this and always be prepared for someone to suddenly step out of the tall grass by the side of the road directly into your path.

Other vehicles: It is important to assume that other vehicles on the road may not necessarily have working brakes, indicators or headlights. We strongly advise against driving after dark in Zambia. It is difficult to see pedestrians, animals, broken down vehicles may not have warning triangles and some vehicles travel at night without lights.

Speed limits: Within towns and settlements the speed limit is generally 50 or 60km/h and 100km/h on open roads, but be very conscious of speed signs. Enforcement of speed limits is strict, Zambian police often have speed traps immediately after speed limit signs.

Police Road Blocks: These are very common in Zambia and generally do not provide much in the way of trouble. However, it is important to be aware that an orange traffic cone or a 44-gallon drum in the Centre of the road may indicate the presence of a police road block. There may not always be adequate warning of police road blocks. You should be aware of this and slow down so that you can stop if necessary. Below are a question that might be asked by Police.

Passport: If you are requested for this, the chances are that the roadblock is in fact an immigration department roadblock. For this reason, if you are a visitor to the country, it is advisable to carry your passport.

Driving Licence: This is your normal driving license. Under Zambian Law, you are permitted to drive for three months on your foreign Driving License. Your driver’s license must be in your possession at all times when driving in Zambia

Fuel: In remote areas of Zambia petrol is not commonly used and at times there are shortages of all fuel types. If you intend to travel into these areas, we advise that you take extra fuel with you in case.