Destination guide
Travel vaccines for Zambia
South Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi and Victoria Falls — here's what UK travellers are usually advised before visiting Zambia, including malaria and the Yellow Fever certificate rule.
Overview
What vaccinations do I need for Zambia?
Zambia offers superb walking safaris and Victoria Falls. Malaria is a serious risk across the country, a few travel vaccinations are recommended, and there's a Yellow Fever certificate rule for travellers arriving from a risk country.
The recommendations below are a general guide based on UK travel health advice. We'll confirm exactly what you need at a short consultation.
Plan ahead
Book 4–6 weeks before you fly
Malaria tablets may need starting before you travel, and any Yellow Fever certificate must be issued at least 10 days before arrival — so plan ahead. Travelling sooner? Come in anyway and we'll help.
Recommended vaccinations
Vaccines commonly advised for Zambia
Grouped by how often they're recommended. Your personal list is confirmed at consultation. Vaccine guidance is based on public health information from TravelHealthPro (UKHSA/NaTHNaC).
Hepatitis A
Most travellers
Spread through contaminated food and water — advised for nearly all trips.
Typhoid
Most travellers
Recommended for most travellers to Zambia.
Tetanus, Diphtheria & Polio
Most travellers
A combined booster is recommended if you're not up to date.
Yellow Fever (+ certificate)
Certificate rule
A certificate is required if you arrive from a risk country — common on multi-country safaris. We confirm and issue it if needed.
Hepatitis B
Some travellers
Advised for longer stays, healthcare work, or possible medical/dental treatment.
Rabies
Some travellers
Often advised — rabies is present and medical help can be far away on safari.
Malaria & mosquitoes
Malaria in Zambia
Malaria risk is present across the whole of Zambia all year, including South Luangwa, the Lower Zambezi and Victoria Falls (Livingstone). Antimalarial tablets are recommended for all travellers, alongside mosquito-bite protection.
- Antimalarial tablets advised for the entire country, all year
- Use repellent, cover up at dawn and dusk, and sleep under nets
- Seek urgent help for any fever during or after your trip
FAQ
Zambia travel vaccines — FAQs
You need one if you're arriving from, or have travelled through, a country with yellow fever risk — common on safaris combining several countries. Direct from the UK it isn't required for entry. We issue the certificate if your trip needs it.
Yes — malaria is present throughout Zambia all year, including Victoria Falls and the safari parks. We'll recommend the right tablets and bite-protection advice.
Hepatitis A and Typhoid with Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio up to date, plus malaria tablets and Yellow Fever if your route requires it. Rabies and Hepatitis B are often added.
Ideally 4–6 weeks before travel (and at least 10 days for any Yellow Fever certificate). We can still help at shorter notice.
Getting ready for Zambia?
Book a quick consultation at our Timperley clinic near Manchester and we'll sort your vaccinations, certificate and malaria tablets for your trip.