15 Facts About Zambia Most People Get Wrong
Zambia is home to 19.5M people across 752,618 km², making it a country with vast stretches of open, largely empty land. It ranks 1st in the world for Victoria Falls.
Below are 15 facts about Zambia, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Zambia
A complete overview of Zambia's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Victoria Falls on Zambia's border is the world's largest curtain of falling water.
Zambia is one of Africa's top safari destinations with the Luangwa Valley's walking safaris.
Zambia has the highest concentration of hippos in Africa along the Luangwa River.
Zambia is the world's second largest copper producer.
Zambia is located in Southern Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Lusaka.
The population of Zambia is approximately 19.5M, spread across 752,618 km² of territory.
Zambia has a population density of 26/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Zambia is a landlocked country with no coastline, relying entirely on neighbouring countries for access to international trade routes.
Zambia shares land borders with 8 countries: DR Congo, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola.
The official language of Zambia is English, making it straightforward for international visitors to communicate.
Zambia uses the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) as its official currency.
Zambia gained independence in 1964, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Southern Africa.
The total GDP of Zambia is $28.5B, with a GDP per capita of $1,462, classifying it as a developing economy.
Zambia has a tropical, dry season may–october climate, with the best time to visit being May–October.
Zambia is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $5–12.
The South Luangwa Valley in Zambia is where the walking safari was invented by Norman Carr in the 1950s, before that, wildlife viewing was done from vehicles. Today it remains one of Africa's finest wildlife experiences and has the highest hippo density on the continent.
🏆 Zambia World Rankings
Zambia holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Zambia
Zambia is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
💧 Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)
UNESCO world's largest curtain of water, 1.7km wide and 108m tall, visible 50km away
🐆 South Luangwa National Park
Birthplace of the walking safari, one of Africa's finest wildlife parks with enormous leopard density
🐘 Lower Zambezi National Park
Wild and remote park on the Zambezi River, canoe safaris past hippos and elephants
🌊 Lake Kariba
One of the world's largest man-made lakes, a vast inland sea with houseboat safaris
Frequently Asked Questions About Zambia
What is Zambia famous for?
The South Luangwa Valley in Zambia is where the walking safari was invented by Norman Carr in the 1950s, before that, wildlife viewing was done from vehicles. Today it remains one of Africa's finest wildlife experiences and has the highest hippo density on the continent.
What is the capital of Zambia?
The capital of Zambia is Lusaka.
What is the population of Zambia?
Zambia has a population of approximately 19.5M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Zambia?
The official language of Zambia is English.
When did Zambia become an independent country?
Zambia gained independence in 1964.
What currency does Zambia use?
Zambia uses the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW).
What is the GDP of Zambia?
Zambia has a GDP of $28.5B, with a GDP per capita of $1,462.
Where is Zambia located?
Zambia is located in Southern Africa, Africa.
Is Zambia safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Zambia vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Zambia?
Victoria Falls on Zambia's border is the world's largest curtain of falling water. Zambia is one of Africa's top safari destinations with the Luangwa Valley's walking safaris. Zambia has the highest concentration of hippos in Africa along the Luangwa River.
What are some interesting facts about Zambia?
Zambia is one of Africa's top safari destinations with the Luangwa Valley's walking safaris. Zambia has the highest concentration of hippos in Africa along the Luangwa River. Zambia is the world's second largest copper producer.
Zambia facts: what should I know?
Zambia is a country in Southern Africa with a population of 19.5M. Its capital is Lusaka and its official language is English. Victoria Falls on Zambia's border is the world's largest curtain of falling water.
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