Lusaka Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Lusaka

Lusaka is a practical base with plenty to fill a day or two before heading into the bush.

• Lusaka National Park — On the south-eastern edge of the city, this park is home to white rhinos, giraffes, zebras and antelope, and makes an easy half-day safari.
• Munda Wanga Environmental Park — South of the centre, this wildlife sanctuary and botanical garden cares for rescued animals and is popular with families.
• Kabwata Cultural Village — A collection of thatched huts where craftspeople sell carvings, baskets and fabrics. It is a good place to meet artisans and shop for souvenirs.
• Lusaka National Museum — Exhibits on Zambian history, ethnography and contemporary art give useful context to your trip.
• Freedom Statue and city centre — The statue commemorates Zambia's struggle for independence, a short walk from government buildings and Cairo Road.
• Cathedral of the Holy Cross — This striking modern Anglican cathedral is a landmark of the city's leafy eastern suburbs.

Best time to visit Lusaka

The dry season from May to October is the best time to visit. May to August brings sunny days and cool nights, and wildlife viewing is at its best towards the end of the dry season, when animals gather at water sources.

September and October are the hottest months. The rains fall from around November to April, bringing afternoon thunderstorms and green landscapes, though some roads to remote parks become difficult.

Getting from the airport

Lusaka is served by Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), about 25 km north-east of the city centre. Taxis are available at the terminal; agree the fare before you set off. Many hotels and lodges also offer airport transfers when booked ahead.

Where to stay

Most visitors stay in the leafy suburbs east of the centre, close to restaurants and shopping areas.

• Kabulonga — An upmarket residential area with quiet, tree-lined streets.
• Rhodes Park — Central and well connected, close to embassies and the city centre.
• Longacres — Near government offices and the conference district; handy for business trips.
• Woodlands — A green, residential suburb with a relaxed feel, close to shops and cafés.

Travel tips

• Money — Zambia uses the kwacha. Cards are widely accepted in hotels and malls, and cash machines are common in the city, but carry cash for markets and taxis.
• Getting around — Use licensed taxis or a driver arranged by your hotel, and agree the fare in advance.
• Etiquette — Greetings matter in Zambia; take a moment to say hello before asking a question. Ask before photographing people.
• Safety — Keep valuables secure in busy areas such as markets and bus stations, and avoid walking alone at night.
• What to pack — Layers for cool dry-season evenings, sun protection, a hat and insect repellent. Seek medical advice on malaria prevention before travel.
• Before you go — Check current entry requirements for Zambia using RwandAir's travel requirements tool.