Accommodation in Zambia may be divided into four main categories: hotels, motels, lodges and camps; and two minor categories: Government (GRZ)-hostels and camping/caravan sites. Zambia is a large, wild and, as yet, largely undeveloped country. Only the major tourist sites are fully prepared to cater for the needs of the visitor and payment is in hard currency, except at smaller establishments.

Hotels are concentrated around Lusaka, Livingstone and the Copperbelt region. Others are widely dispersed around the country along principal roads or near towns. It is advisable to book in advance and to obtain confirmation in writing. All bills are subject to a 10 per cent service charge in lieu of tips and 20 per cent sales tax. Tipping in hotels is not permitted by law. Hotels are graded according to a 5-star system and range from an ungraded class to one 5-star hotel.

All lodges and many camps in the parks are offered on a fully catered basis. As the quality of accommodation and associated facilities varies enormously from one place to another, visitors intending to stay should contact the relevant tour operator/tourist office for detailed information.

These are generally stone buildings with thatched roofs designed to complement the natural environment, housing a maximum of 40 beds.

The most common and most widely used type of accommodation for safaris. In general, standard facilities include hot and cold running water, electricity and waterborne sanitation plus the basic accoutrements for comfortable living. For instance, Luangwa’s camps have beds, clean linen, refrigerators, crockery, cutlery, mosquito nets, lamps, toilets and showers. At non-catered camps, visitors must bring their own food and drink. Some are open all year round while others open from June to October or November.

These are available throughout the provinces. They have a small capacity, rising in exceptional cases to 24 rooms. Government rest houses are available in many centres but they are very basic.

Sites are available at most of the tourist centres, including several national parks. It is best to make reservations well in advance. If booking is more than four weeks in advance, some operators charge a 15 per cent deposit. Prices may increase during peak periods. For further information, contact the Zambia National Tourist Board, who can supply a list of Zambian tour operators.

Hotel and Catering Association of Zambia
PO Box 30815, Lusaka, Zambia
Tel: (1) 252 779.
Website: www.zambiatourism.com