How do I get to Lusaka?

By Plane: Lusaka International Airpor is situated 12 miles northeast of Lusaka. This airport is well-served by many airlines.

By Train: There are two trains per week to Lusaka from Livingstone. The Zambezi offers both business class and sleeper compartments and is recommended for tourists. The other train is the Kafue, heavily subsidized by the government and therefore it is very inexpensive but lacks most amenities. There are no differences in travel time between the two trains. Both trains connect with cities north such as Ndola and Kitwe, which are in the Copperbelt region.

By Car: All the arterial roads lead to Lusaka.

How can I get around the city using public transportation?

While the city is relatively small, getting around can be somewhat difficult. Walking is not always a pleasant experience because of the climate and the hagglers along the roads. Public transportation consists of buses and minibuses that run frequently along main transport routes, though both options can get crowded, meaning they're not always comfortable.

Visitors who have an international driver's license can rent a car, and there are plenty of reputable car rental companies in the city and at the airport. On the downside, driving in Lusaka is not an easy task, as traffic is often gridlocked and it can be difficult to find parking. The signage is usually quite clear, but the condition of the roads is not always good. Renting a driver is a popular option.

When is the best time to visit Lusaka?

Based on all the essential things any traveler needs to know about visiting Lusaka such as the cost of travel, weather, peak travel seasons and many more, May - June is the best time of year to go. The warmest month of the year in Lusaka is October, when the average temperature gets to around 90 degrees F in summer. In the winter months, it can get down to as low as 50 degrees F at night.

If you love sunny days and want to visit Lusaka when the days are the longest, you should visit in October. The wet season in Lusaka falls around January, so if you prefer the dryer weather, you should look to visit in September instead.

Summer: December - February
Fall: March - May
Winter: June - August
Spring: September - November

What is good to shop for in Lusaka?

In Lusaka, you'll want to be sure to check out the local markets. Popular choices to purchase include batik fabric, carved wooden masks and animals, pottery, and jewelry, often made from beads. Lots of fresh produce is also sold at the markets. The markets are also a great place to experience the local way of life.

Soweto market is the single largest market in Zambia (located in Lusaka) with stores and stands numbering well over 7,200. The products traded at the market range from agricultural products to groceries, hardware, wood products, second-hand clothes, and much more.

Most tourist hotels and lodges have souvenir shops. They sell items designed specifically to appeal to tourists.

It is possible you may see some ivory products for sale in Zambia. Although less prevalent than it was, poaching is still a problem in Zambia. We strongly suggest avoiding the purchase of any ivory. By purchasing ivory you may also inadvertently be helping to drive the illegal poaching of elephants and rhinos.

Bargaining is acceptable in the markets, in fact, it is expected. Vendors will often start very high with their prices, and then quickly haggle down to a more acceptable price, especially with tourists.

Note: As with elsewhere in the world, you should guard against petty thieves in crowded local markets by staying alert and keeping a close eye on your belongings.

What is the currency in Zambia?

The official currency in Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha.

Euro, British Pounds, US Dollars, South African Rand and other major currencies can be exchanged locally or in advance of departure. Additionally, exchange facilities are available at various bureau de changes and banks in major towns have ATMs. It's advisable to request bank notes in smaller denominations, as it can sometimes be hard to get change from large notes and smaller notes are handy for smaller purchases and gratuities. Credit cards are increasingly accepted in Zambia, but only in larger towns and cities.

Zambia is a cash-based society, so you will have to carry a lot of cash around with you. Always be prepared with the amount you need. Don’t waste time going through all your banknotes and showing everyone how much money is in your wallet. Or, keep only a small amount of money in your wallet and keep the rest hidden elsewhere.

What is it like to travel as a member of the LGBTQ+ community in Zambia?

Unfortunately, many of Zambia's laws relating to homosexuality are left over from colonial times and are considered far behind many Western countries, as are the views towards homosexuality from society as a whole. Homosexual acts are illegal and punishable with a prison term. LGBTQ+ individuals are subject to arbitrary arrest and sometimes suffer violence both in society and at the hands of authorities.

This being said, the vast majority of trips to Zambia for LGBTQ+ travelers are trouble-free, particularly when traveling in a group. Discretion is strongly advised, such as avoiding public displays of affection. As a conservative society, this advice is the same for heterosexual couples. It is important to point out that Zambia is generally a very welcoming, friendly country, and you will find the people charming. Society is just in a different place to many Western countries with regard to homosexuality, unfortunately.

Do people speak English in Zambia?

Yes, English is the official language of Zambia and is widely spoken throughout the country. It serves as the medium of instruction in schools, the language of government and administration, and is used in business and commerce.

Lusaka is a melting pot of Zambian culture and traditions. There are over 72 spoken languages in Zambia, of which seven are official. Bemba, Nyanja, Lozi, Tonga, Luvale, Lunda and Kaonde are all spoken in Lusaka as many people have migrated to the capital.

What is the time zone in Zambia?

Zambia is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Can I drink the water in Zambia?

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilized. The filtered drinking water supplied by hotels and safari lodges is generally safe for consumption.

Is Lusaka a safe city to visit?

Petty crime is common including pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins. Security risks increase after dark, especially in tourist areas and city centers. Stay alert to your surroundings. Avoid walking alone or traveling after dark.

Spontaneous demonstrations are common and even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Avoid all demonstrations, political rallies and large public gatherings as they can turn violent.

Date-rape drugs have been used in bars and restaurants in Lusaka. Always keep a close eye on your food and drinks. If you're not sure it's safe, leave it.

Thieves sometimes follow people after they withdraw money from ATMs. Avoid using ATMs at night and be vigilant of your surroundings as you withdraw money.

What other safety risks should I be aware of when visiting Zambia?

The Zambia sun is extremely strong, so it's wise to wear sunscreen and stay in the shade as much as possible, especially at midday, even if it's cloudy. Also beware of dehydration due to the very high temperatures, particularly when exposed to the full force of the sun. Make sure to drink plenty of water.

What health concerns should I be aware of?

Medications containing diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, are illegal in Zambia.

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high in Zambia. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Malaria and other insect-borne diseases occur. The risk is highest in densely populated areas, especially near wetlands, in the rainy season. Not all mosquitoes carry malaria but it can take just one bite of an infected insect to transmit the disease, so it's important to use insect repellent.

The standard of medical facilities in Zambia is poor and medical supplies are limited. Make sure you know your blood type. We advise you to travel with a medical kit.

What is the food like in Zambia?

Maize is the main staple food in Zambia. Specifically, a pounded white maize porridge known as nshima is eaten with a high proportion of meals, particularly lunch and dinner. It is often served with meat or vegetable stew. A popular stew is known as Ifisashi, which is made of peanuts and green leaves, served alongside nshima.

Although Zambia is landlocked, fish is an important part of the cuisine in some communities in Zambia. Kapenta is a species of sardine found in Lake Tanganyika, which is shared between four countries including Zambia. This fish is often dried before being eaten or can be cooked fresh. it has been introduced to other water sources in Zambia, providing a reliable food source. Insects including caterpillars are also part of Zambian cuisine.

For dessert, vitumbuwa is a popular option. These simple dough balls are made from flour, sugar, yeast and water, and can often be found at market stalls at the markets.

Is there anything I need to know about safe eating while traveling in Zambia?

Be wary when eating outside of high-end lodges as sometimes the quality of the meat and the way in which it has been prepared might not be suitable for a sensitive western stomach. Also be aware that food hygiene in Zambia is much more basic than you will be used to so if something looks unclean, old or badly cooked, it is best to avoid it altogether. It is also a good idea to avoid ice in your drink and eating salad as these might have come into contact with unhygienic water.

What should I do if I need medical assistance or in an emergency?

Fire, rescue, and medical emergencies services: Dial 999

Police, dial 999 or go to the local police station. Police response may be slow due to a lack of resources. Always get a police report when you report a crime.