Are you ready for an adventure in the wild, wild west of Africa?
Then pack your bags and head to Lusaka, the capital and biggest city of Zambia!
But be warned: Lusaka can be a confounding and turbulent place if you are not familiar with its rustic neighborhoods and bumpy roads.
But don’t let that scare you off!
Lusaka is nestled on a stunning plateau, with high, sprawling plains of grassland and bush that give way to breathtaking mountains in the east.
And because of its elevation, the climate is cooler here than in many other African countries, making it a perfect escape from the sweltering heat.
But let’s get down to business.
Copper export is the lifeblood of Lusaka, providing most of its income and employment opportunities.
You can see the evidence of this everywhere you look, from the towering copper mines to the gleaming copper roofs of the city’s buildings.
It’s like the whole place is blushing with pride!
But Lusaka isn’t just about copper.
It’s also a land of rich, fertile soil, where corn grows tall and proud.
And what better way to taste the fruits of this land than with a steaming bowl of nshima, a delicious corn porridge that’s a staple of Zambian cuisine?
Best time to Visit Lusaka
Climate and atmosphere patterns all over Africa are getting to be progressively unusual, likely because of global warming; there are now strong storms amidst deserts and harming dry seasons when downpours ought to be falling.
The rainy season in Lusaka usually arrive in December, January, February and March however the further north you are, the prior the downpours arrive and the later they take off.
This is Zambia’s so called ‘Emerald Season’ – when most camps close and numerous unpaved streets in Zambia get to be obstructed by flood.
By April and May a large portion of the downpour season has blurred away and creates an emerald green landscape that is also beginning to dry out.
Evening temperatures begin to drop, particularly in higher and the southern areas.
In June, July and August the nights get much colder, yet the days are clear and warm.
Verify you bring warm garments to wrap up in case you’re out during the evening, as a few nights get extremely chilly! A large portion of Zambia’s little ‘strolling bush camps’ open toward the first week of June, when the streets have dried out sufficiently to permit access.
This is the official start of the peak season to explore this city.
But come September and October (summer season) the temperatures rise and you’ll see some sublime diversion as the wildlife animals focus around finding drinking water amidst the constrained water sources during this dry season.
November is quite unpredictable; it can be hot and dry like October, or it can see the season’s first deluges.
Best Things to Do in Lusaka
Explore these attractions and experience the great variety of things to do when in the city of Lusaka:
Things to Do | Rating |
---|---|
1. Visit the Lusaka National Museum | 8 |
2. Explore the Munda Wanga Environmental Park | 9 |
3. Enjoy a picnic at the Lusaka National Park | 7 |
4. Take a boat trip on Lake Kariba | 8 |
5. Shop at the Sunday Craft Market | 6 |
6. Visit the Kabwata Cultural Village | 7 |
7. Explore the Kalimba Reptile Park | 8 |
8. Discover the Chaminuka Game Reserve | 9 |
9. Walk along the Great East Road | 6 |
10. Visit the Lusaka Playhouse | 7 |
11. Explore the Lusaka National Park | 8 |
12. Learn at the Lusaka City Market | 6 |
13. Discover the Freedom Statue | 7 |
14. Visit the Cathedral of the Holy Cross | 9 |
15. Enjoy the nightlife at Lusaka’s bars and clubs | 8 |
The Lilayi Elephant Nursery
It is exciting to see the baby elephants nurtured and protected inside the grounds of The Lilayi Elephant Nursery and listen to exceptionally complete information.
You will be impressed with the commitment of the staff and their dedication to the cause of the baby elephants and the variety of cases that they need to manage with on a daily basis.
They also aim to help the community become aware of how to secure themselves from the wild elephants.
Most of the cases here are elephants injured and attacked by the villagers who wants to secure their crops and homes.
The site is a preserved observatory cottage for vagrant elephants.
It is a great way to educate the children about the mighty animal. The staff is knowledgeable and explains to their guests the need to care for the elephants and to preserve them inside the nursery.
The elephants kept here ranges from the age of 1 year to 6 years old. They are safeguarded and given medicinal treatment by the animal reserve foundation.
The stories of these elephants are terrible and the scars of their experience are obvious from the initial review stage.
One good example was an elephant that was saved from poachers after her mother had been slaughtered for her tusks.
The heartless poachers did not stop from that incident. They even stab with an ax the baby elephant’s back making her paralyzed from her spine down to her right leg.
It is the nursery’s mission to gather and collect all these orphaned baby elephants, to feed them, care, give medical attention if they are sick with the hope that they can come back to their natural habitat in the future.
The entrance fee requires a small donation for the orphaned elephants cause.
Do not miss a visit to this place and get entertained by the baby elephants and a chance to promote and help their worthy cause.
It can be easily accessed from the city because The Lilayi Elephant Nursery is located within the proximity of the Lilayi Lodge (situated just outside of Lusaka Zambia).
These elephants are raised and cared for to be let out in the wild later on. It is an absolute must see while you’re in Lusaka City but you must call their office in advance if you plan to have an excursion on its grounds to meet the baby elephants in real.
Chaminuka Game Reserve
The entire resort is built in order to see as many animals as possible. The safari tour starts in an open jeep with a great guide who will show everything from baby giraffes to elephants.
The packed lunch provided by the resort is absolutely incredible. If you are lucky enough, you can even bump into the owners of the Chaminuka Game Reserve.
They are very humble people. This is an excellent resort that offers a decent safari experience. You can see wild impala, elephant, giraffe, and so forth while on board a steel railed safari vehicle.
Indeed, the daytime excursion with lunch is great, yet in the event that you have additional time, it is more pleasant to stay one night there to enjoy a full relaxation and be surrounded by nature at the same time.
Chaminuka is ideal for a family day out or where you can spend a perfect weekend getaway. Even if it’s a bit costly, the rooms, the accommodation, and food is all worth it.
They also offer another tour for cheese lovers. The resort / reserve park has its own cheese factory located within its wide premises.
You can delight on different kinds of cheese that are free to taste along with some wine on the side to cleanse your distinctive palate.
Fun things to do in Lusaka – Zambia
Kabwata Cultural Village
The Kabwata Cultural Village is the ideal place to buy authentic souvenirs from Lusaka.
Even if most of the merchants sway you to buy and choose their products they are not persistent to the point that they will follow you around anywhere you go.
They are amiable and very welcoming. The magic of haggling is the most prevalent tradition here, ask the price and inquire about their “best offer” and begin to walk away once they lower their cost.
The sellers are mostly inside the African huts, even if the place is a bit pricey it is all worth taking time to stop by and see what it has to offer.
The best reward after a busy day of haggling is you can purchase things at a less expensive price and a t a cost that you anticipate.
If your friends back home asks you to buy or bring something from Lusaka, Zambia, this is the best place to shop the best souvenirs and authentic handicrafts.
To have the best idea, look for a fabric called the “chitenge”. It is commonly used as shawls and clothing and highly regarded as durable and long lasting.
While you are here you must be prepared to barter or get deceived.
Another odd thing about this place is if you paid for something and the change is more than 100, they will provide for you an alternative item that cost the same amount rather than give you the exact change.
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park is located along the banks of the Zambezi River and it is very rich in aquatic animals, birds, and big cats.
There is an exciting night safari that you can watch along with your family. The National Park of Zambezi is spectacularly beautiful.
Especially the Zambezi River that is full of hippos, crocodiles and hundreds of migratory and endemic birds.
While inside its premises you can have a feeling of real Africa.
It is absolutely recommended. If it’s your first time in Africa, this can be the best place to get educated about Africa’s rich natural reserve.
You can have the most wonderful and fun experience as you navigate the entire park with the sight of hippos poking out of the water.
It is also a silent navigation that is full of surprises like seeing crocodiles lying in the sun on the banks of the Zambezi, big tigers perched on top of the tree, impalas running along with the zebras and giraffes, the majestic flight of an eagle fish, trunks of elephants over the bushes and a sunset with a wonderful reflection in the water.
The park is truly magnificent and full of unforgettable and evocative moments.
Beautiful places to visit in Lusaka
Zambia National Museum
The Zambian National Museum is worth a look, but first it is necessary to read or research a little about the history of the country to understand its contents.
It is quite difficult to understand why they have devoted the entire rooms and sections of the exposition.
But still it has its highlights and particularly interesting – like, for example, the exhibition of objects used in witchcraft with a matching explanation on how they were used (some ancient African cures are based on herbal medicine, while others have beliefs on magic or spirits of good and evil) and the layout of a traditional Zambian village which shows the main occupations of the local peasants.
The odd thing you will notice among the pictures are women farmers (women carrying corn husks on their head, plowing the soil, etc.).
The guide narrates that women do most of the farm laboring in Zambia.
They grow and maintain crops such as millet, sorghum, cassava, and corn on small plots to help feed their families.
You will learn so much about Lusaka and Zambia and how the nation and the city came to be while in the museum.
During the colonial period, from the early 1900s until the 1960s, Zambia was first known as Northern Rhodesia and was under British control.
When Rhodesia gained independence in 1964, it was named Zambia and Kenneth Kaunda was made president.
Up until 1990, only one political party was permitted by law.
In 1991, Frederick Chiluba, head of the opposition party MMD (Movement for Multiparty Democracy), became president when he defeated Kaunda in the country’s first multiparty elections.
Anyone who goes to Lusaka should definitely visit this museum. Then you will understand the country and its people.
Lusaka Experience
The Lusaka Experience is actually a walking tour of the Garden Compound in Lusaka. You can hire Felix as a guide and have a wonderful time while taking the hike.
The trail gives many impressions and superb views of the city.
The lunch treat after the tour is superb. Lusaka Experience is an extraordinary method for getting to know parts of the city that you may not discover as a traveler.
With Felix, you can get a customized visit in Garden Compound where you will learn a great deal about Lusaka’s history, topography and the living conditions and lifestyle of the typical Zambians.
The tour is well organized and the guides here are all detailed on facts about the nation’s past. A visit here is an eye opening adventure; do not miss the Lusaka Experience.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross Lusaka
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross Lusaka is an exceptionally lovely and serene place that was built since the 1950s.
The religious structure uses a fusion of Coventry and Guildford architectural design.
The bishops here are very kind and will gladly show you around and tell the significant role of this church and the Christian faith during the transition of government in 1960s.
Come and visit here if you are looking for peace and calm after a tour of the safaris and reserve parks which the city is famous for.
The Holy Masses every Sunday are open to everyone and delivered in English. The church also have admirable and stunning stained glass windows.
There is no entrance fee and taking pictures is allowed from inside and outside the Christian church.
Chilenje House
The Chilenje House is just one of the few museums in Lusaka that you can visit for free.
If you are curious by the history of Lusaka and where its former President Kaunda once stayed, then it is imperative to visit this house museum.
There isn’t much to see around here; only his old Rover, a small collection of photographs, books political propaganda materials, and his old office preserved like how it was in the 1960s.
The place looks a bit in shambles but still worth visiting for its historical value.
Kalimba Reptile Park
The Kalimba Reptile Park is an animal reserve for crocodiles and other reptiles that is well kept and a considerable measure of spaces with barbecue grills are accessible for cookout and a picnic.
It is a slice of Africa that is simply a couple of minutes away from the downtown area.
The crocodiles are a tad bit exhausted during the day as they lay along the ponds, same with the snakes in their glassed cages.
You can actually see diverse types of snakes during the exhibition.
All of them are appropriately marked with their scientific names and important information about their behavior, what they eat, and their role in the animal kingdom.
The crocodiles are abundant (almost 165).
It is such an experience to see innumerable crocodiles plunge into the stream. Bring your camera and sense of adventure and you will definitely enjoy this reptile park in Lusaka.
Munda Wanga Environmental Park
The Munda Wanga Environmental Park is located at the southern part of the city which emphasizes the flourishing gardens, animal sanctuaries, wildlife park and reserves, picnic groves, beach resorts, and relaxing bistros with an overlooking balcony.
There I a great selection of things to do while you are here.
There is a swimming pool for kids and adults to enjoy, a play area with complete facilities for kids, a recreational and promenade area, jogging paths, and of course, seeing the wildlife animals of Zambia.
The place is neat and well maintained, plus it is free to explore this wonderful attraction in Lusaka City.
Lusaka is a city whose clamoring mayhem has a certain appeal that is simply Zambia. The entrancing thing about Lusaka is its vitality.
Not maybe of the same kind as the other big cities in Africa, however it is the type of energetic atmosphere that has a strong need to survive.
Anyhow Lusaka is likewise a city experiencing a major facelift.
A stroll around the city will uncover new shops-including a developing business and trade sector and a multi-million dollar shopping center that is currently underway; brilliant fast food outlets; wider highways, old structures being renovated and recreational parks that are well maintained.
For a lot of people, this is the ideal case of what financial liberalization has accomplished for the nation.
Lusaka is the sparkling capital which still influences rustic Zambians to take up jobs in the bustling capital city.
If you’re in Africa include Lusaka, Zambia in your itinerary and discover a city rich with animal reserves, interesting culture, and a unique travel experience.
10+ Epic Things to Do in Zambia
1. Marvel at the Mighty Victoria Falls
Prepare to have your socks blown off by the sheer force and beauty of the world-famous Victoria Falls—the “Smoke that Thunders.”
Stand in awe as the mist envelops you, giving you a natural spa treatment while you witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows.
2. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping with White Water Rafting
Strap on your helmet, grab a paddle, and brace yourself for an exhilarating ride down the mighty Zambezi River.
Challenge the roaring rapids and conquer the swirling waters, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you navigate through the heart-pounding twists and turns.
3. Embark on a Safari Adventure in South Luangwa National Park
Step into the realm of wildlife wonders and encounter a stunning array of creatures in their natural habitat.
Stalk the elusive leopards, witness elephants crossing the river in majestic herds, and marvel at the colorful plumage of exotic bird species—truly a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
4. Explore the Enchanting Lower Zambezi National Park
Navigate the meandering Zambezi River in a canoe and soak in the breathtaking beauty of this untamed wilderness.
As you paddle along, keep an eye out for elephants bathing in the river, hippos lazing under the sun, and crocodiles lurking in the shallows—an adventure you won’t soon forget!
5. Get Your Feet Dancing to the Rhythm of Traditional Zambian Music
Join in the vibrant beats and melodies of traditional Zambian music. Let the infectious rhythms take over your body as you sway, dance, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Don’t be shy to attempt some traditional dance moves—it’s all about having fun!
6. Take a Walking Safari in Kafue National Park
Put on your walking shoes and embark on a thrilling walking safari through Kafue National Park.
Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll get up close and personal with the African wilderness, spotting magnificent lions, graceful antelopes, and maybe even a curious giraffe!
7. Dive into the Depths of the Stunning Lake Tanganyika
Plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, one of Africa’s largest and deepest lakes.
Snorkel or scuba dive amidst colorful cichlid fish, explore vibrant coral reefs, and discover the hidden treasures beneath the surface—a true aquatic paradise.
8. Discover the Mysteries of the Ancient Rock Paintings
Uncover the secrets of Zambia’s rich history by exploring the ancient rock paintings found in various locations across the country.
Admire the intricate artwork depicting ancient rituals, wildlife, and daily life—a fascinating glimpse into the past.
9. Swing through the Treetops on a Canopy Walk
Release your inner Tarzan or Jane as you traverse the treetops on a thrilling canopy walk.
Feel the rush of excitement as you navigate suspended bridges, witnessing the lush greenery from a unique vantage point—an adventure that will make you feel truly alive!
10. Unleash Your Angling Skills on the Zambezi River
Grab your fishing rod, cast your line, and prepare for an angler’s paradise on the Zambezi River.
Feel the anticipation as you wait for the tug on the line, hoping to reel in a prized catch such as the fierce tigerfish—a battle between man and fish that will keep you hooked.
11. Experience the Traditional Zambian Cuisine
Indulge your taste buds in the flavors of Zambia’s traditional cuisine.
Sample delicious dishes like nshima (a staple made from ground maize), biltong (dried and cured meat), and the mouthwatering caterpillar dish called inswa—prepare for a culinary adventure like no other!
12. Traverse the Vast and Remote Liuwa Plain National Park
Venture off the beaten path and witness the untouched beauty of Liuwa Plain National Park.
Marvel at the expansive grasslands, spot endangered wildebeest migrations, and feel a true sense of wilderness as you explore this hidden gem.
13. Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Zambian Markets
Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Zambian markets, where colors, scents, and sounds collide.
Bargain for unique crafts, handmade jewelry, and traditional textiles—take home a piece of Zambia’s vibrant culture and support local artisans along the way.
14. Feel the Excitement of a Bungee Jump at Victoria Falls Bridge
For the daredevils out there, take a leap of faith and bungee jump off the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge.
Plunge towards the raging Zambezi River below, heart pounding, as you experience an adrenaline rush like no other—the ultimate test of bravery.
15. Relax and Unwind on the Shores of Lake Kariba
After all the adventure, treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation on the tranquil shores of Lake Kariba.
Bask in the warm sunshine, take a leisurely boat ride, and enjoy the stunning sunsets over the vast expanse of water—a perfect end to your epic Zambian escapades!
16. Discover the Pristine Wilderness of North Luangwa National Park
Embark on a true off-the-grid adventure in North Luangwa National Park.
With limited access and minimal tourist presence, you’ll have the rare opportunity to explore untouched landscapes and witness wildlife in its purest form—truly a paradise for nature lovers and intrepid explorers.
17. Soar Above the Zambezi River on a Helicopter Ride
Take your Zambia experience to new heights with a thrilling helicopter ride over the Zambezi River.
Marvel at the sweeping views of the cascading Victoria Falls, spot wildlife from above, and feel the exhilaration of soaring through the sky—it’s a bird’s-eye view you won’t want to miss!
18. Experience Traditional Zambian Hospitality in a Village Stay
Immerse yourself in the warmth and hospitality of the Zambian people by participating in a village stay.
Connect with locals, learn about their customs and traditions, and engage in daily activities such as farming, cooking traditional meals, and storytelling—a unique cultural exchange that will leave a lasting impression.
19. Conquer the Challenging Trails of Nyika Plateau
Put on your hiking boots and venture to Nyika Plateau, located on the border between Zambia and Malawi.
Trek through picturesque landscapes adorned with wildflowers, encounter rare species like roan antelopes and leopards, and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views—a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and avid hikers.
20. Encounter the Majestic Black Rhinos at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Witness the conservation success story of the black rhinos at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
Take a guided tour to see these magnificent creatures up close, learn about their ongoing protection efforts, and contribute to the preservation of this critically endangered species.
21. Explore the Ancient Wonder of Kasanka National Park
Uncover the mysteries of Kasanka National Park, known for its awe-inspiring bat migration phenomenon.
Witness millions of fruit bats as they blanket the skies during their annual migration—an extraordinary natural spectacle that will leave you in awe of Mother Nature’s wonders.
22. Engage in Thrilling Riverboarding on the Zambezi
Get ready to ride the rapids in a whole new way with riverboarding on the Zambezi River.
Strap on a specialized board, navigate the swirling waters, and experience the rush of adrenaline as you surf the waves—it’s like snowboarding, but with a wild twist!
23. Visit the Charming City of Livingstone
While Lusaka may not make the list, a visit to the charming city of Livingstone is a must.
Explore its colonial heritage, visit local markets, and enjoy a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River—the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventures.
24. Discover the Ancient Wonder of the Batoka Gorge
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Batoka Gorge, carved by the mighty Zambezi River.
Take a scenic hike, abseil down the cliffs, or go rock climbing—whatever your adventurous heart desires, this gorge has it all.
25. Experience the Thrill of Night Safaris in South Luangwa
Take your safari experience to a whole new level with a night safari in South Luangwa National Park.
Witness the nocturnal wonders of the African bush as you search for elusive predators like lions and leopards—prepare to be captivated by the hidden secrets of the night.
As you continue your exploration of Zambia, these additional adventures will ensure that your journey is filled with excitement, wonder, and a touch of the extraordinary!