ZM
How to Call Zambia from the United States
Country code +260 — Dial 011 260 95 XXXXXXX from a US landline or +260 95 XXXXXXX from a mobile phone.
What to Dial
- 1Dial 011 from a US landline, or + from a mobile (hold the 0 key).
- 2Dial 260, the country code of Zambia.
- 3Dial the number: 9 digits, without the leading 0 used for calls inside Zambia.
| Calling a… | Written in Zambia | From a US landline | From a cell phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile | 095 XXXXXXX |
011 260 95 XXXXXXX |
+260 95 XXXXXXX |
| Landline (Lusaka Province) | 0211 XXX XXX |
011 260 211 XXX XXX |
+260 211 XXX XXX |
X stands for any digit. Mobile numbers start with 055–058, 075–079 or 095–098. More number types: Zambia phone number format.
Mobile or Landline?
Zambia had 109 mobile subscriptions and 0.3 landlines per 100 people in 2024. Most people you call will be on a mobile, so ask for their mobile number and check what your plan charges for calls to Zambia mobiles.
Source: World Bank (ITU).
Calling Tips for Zambia
Best Time to Call
To reach someone between 9 AM and 8 PM in Lusaka, call between 2:00 AM–1:00 PM EST (11:00 PM–10:00 AM PST). Zambia doesn’t change its clocks, so the gap moves by an hour when the US does.
Zambia is on UTC+2, 7 hours ahead of US Eastern Time right now.
Cost Saving Tips
- VoIP services such as Google Voice or Vonage usually charge less per minute than a carrier's standard international rate.
- WiFi calling apps (WhatsApp, Viber, FaceTime) are free when both parties have the app.
- Check your carrier's international plan — many offer add-on packages.