Jan
10
Lusaka Travel & Sightseeing Guide
Filed Under Sub Saharan Africa
A trip to Lusaka
As the capital of Zambia, Lusaka is one of the fastest growing cities on the African continent. Lying at the crossroads of two major transportation routes, Lusaka is not only an important transportation hub, but it is endowed with incredible natural beauty. Most visitors use Lusaka as a starting point to visit the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, as well as other natural wonders. Lusaka International Airport is the main airline hub in Zambia and home of national airline Zambian Airways.
Flights to Lusaka
Lusaka International Airport is the largest public airport in Zambia and is the gateway for visitors. Zambian Airways has its headquarters here, while the airport is also serviced by British Airways, Ethiopian Airways, Kenya Airways and South African Airways. Zambian Airways offers flights to Chipata, Harare, Johannesburg, Livingstone, Lubumbashi, Mwinilunga and Ndola. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Lusaka try Expedia.
It is best to pre-arrange transport from the airport to the city with your hotel. Otherwise, there are taxis or minibuses available outside the terminal. The airport lies on the railway line between Livingstone and Kitwe, but taking the train is not a convenient option for visitors with luggage. In town, walking on foot or hiring a car and driver are the best and safest ways to get around.
Lusaka
Sightseeing in Lusaka
Most visitors come to Zambia to visit the many game reserves, and Lusaka is a good starting point for this. There are no less than 14 major game parks and many smaller parks in Zambia. Northeast of Lusaka lies the South Luangwa game reserve, which has been named as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Many come here to see the abundant animals at the Ox Bow Lagoon. Just outside of Lusaka lies Zambia’s oldest game reserve, Kafue. Established in 1950, this is the second largest game reserve in the world.
In Lusaka, visitors will find an eclectic mix of colonial, African and modern character in the city. Lusaka is a city that is still growing and there is a lot of new construction going on. Many visitors enjoy strolling around the city’s markets, which are packed and full of energy. Here, you get a feel of what life for a local Zambian must be like.
Fun by night – eating drinking and partying
Nightlife in Lusaka includes African flavours, as well as western ones. People here like to party and dance the night away, and there are plenty of clubs and bars to choose from. Lusaka is considered as one of the safest cities in Southern Africa, so it’s worth checking out the nightlife. For good dancing and live music, try the Brown Frog, a popular night spot for expats.
Fun by day - shopping and activities
The most modern shopping in Lusaka is found at the Arcades shopping mall. Here you will find local crafts and imported items. Bargaining is an important part of shopping in Zambia, so make sure you haggle. For more of a local feel, go to the Lusaka City Market, which can be very crowded at times but well worth a visit. Be sure to hang onto your wallet here. An eclectic mix of local crafts, second-hand items and daily household goods are available at the market, with over 4,000 stalls ensuring you will find something to your liking.
Daytrips
There are many worthwhile attractions within reach of the Zambian capital and although a bit out of town, Kalimba Reptile Park to the northeast is ideal for the whole family. Chief sights here are of course the crocodiles and snakes, but it is also good for relaxation with its café selling sandwiches and beer.
Munda Wanga Environmental Park is one of the big attractions near Lusaka; a wildlife park and sanctuary. Numerous animals, including elephants and baboons, are in the park, as well as beautiful botanical gardens and the Terrace Bar and Restaurant.
Another popular daytrip from Lusaka is Parray’s Game Ranch (about 13 miles from town), with its game drives, swimming pool and playground. The Chaminuka Lodge, near the airport, is a privately owned park and home to antelopes, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and lions.
Must-see attractions
Soweto Market is a popular Lusaka attraction, a modern indoor market selling everything from vegetables to second-hand clothes. Traditional medicines and food stalls are also here, but keep a special eye out for your belongings.
Lusaka’s Anglican Cathedral, which is located on the corner of Church Road, is another must-see. Although modern, the cathedral has an elegant look and features long stained glass windows.
Lilayi Lodge is another of Lusaka’s popular wildlife ranches where you can take a game drive and see the wild animals close up. There is also an excellent restaurant onsite where Sunday buffets can be enjoyed at the pool.
Best time to go
The best time to go to Lusaka is anytime between April and October (winter), as this is when rainfall and temperatures are at their lowest. Most people tend to head here in July and August, so arriving in May or September will net you less crowds and better hotel prices. November to February (summer) is the worst time to be in Lusaka weather wise, due to the relatively high amount of rainfall and the excessive heat.
Rainy day suggestions
Those in Lusaka in the summer have a good chance of seeing some rain and luckily there are one or two decent things to do here for such days. The downstairs galleries in the National Museum show off Zambia’s historical past, as well as modern times, with highlights including contemporary Zambian paintings and sculpture. Upstairs in the museum are many more cultural exhibits. Meanwhile, the Henry Tayali Gallery, in the city Showgrounds, has local art exhibitions.
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