Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

Buying a 4x4 in Zambia

Country forums / Africa / Zambia

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some advise on buying a 4x4 either in Zambia or maybe Botswana. I will be arriving in Zambia next month and need to by a cheap reliable vehicle for mobile medical clinics in remote areas around Kazungula. We are shipping our Land Rover into South Africa and driving it up on a carnet but need a second vehicle for Zambia while we are there. This vehicle will stay in Zambia long term(as part of the charity) to be used for the clinics.

I know it is expensive to buy cars in Zambia because of the import tax but if I was to buy in Botswana and then it ends up in Zambia long term wouldn't I be liable for this anyway? I couldn't take it in on a TIP I presume.

Also what are the rules about foreigners buying cars in Zambia, I am from the UK.

Thanks.

Kirsty

I'm sure you can buy in Zambia - esp. if you're on a valid work permit. Buy in Bots (or any other Sub-Saharan Africa Country), bring it in on a TIP however I think the TIP will be limited to six months.

Are you flying directly into SA or what? I ask as there are a number of second hand vehicles available on my website: Africa 4x4 Cafe.

Go well,

enzo

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Kirtsy: Thanks for your PM. If you have any specific questions either post the here (if they are pertinent to other users) or email me direct (if they are not!): enzo at africa4x4cafe dot com

Ciao!

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Thanks,

Yeah I'd already seen the ones for sale on the 4x4 cafe. The initial plan was to get one in SA, we'll be flying into cape town in 4 weeks to meet our Land Rover. We can't hang about in SA though, only have a few days so won't have a registered address to get the traffic register number.

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Hi look at http://luangwablondes.webs.com/ for some Zambia info
Ivan

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Thanks guys your advice is very much appreciated. Does Anyone know how easy the application of a motor vehicle form goes through and if there are any specific requirements? The form looks pretty straight forward, just want to make sure I have all the required documentation so I can get things sorted quickly when I arrive.

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