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Lusaka

Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia, situated on the southern part of the central plateau at an elevation of about 1,279 metres. One of the fastest-developing cities in southern Africa, Lusaka serves as the centre of both commerce and government, connecting to Zambia's four main highways.

Quick facts

Population
1,742,979 (city)
Currency
Zambian kwacha (ZMW)
Language
English
Timezone
CAT (UTC+2)
Local time now
21:07:27

Hotels in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a range of accommodation options to suit different travel styles and budgets. Whether you're seeking a business hotel like Hilton Garden Inn Lusaka Society Business Park, a mid-range option such as The Lusaka Hotel or Protea Hotel Cairo Road, or budget-friendly stays like StayEasy Lusaka and Broads Backpackers, you'll find suitable lodging throughout the city. See all hotels →

Airports in Lusaka

Lusaka is served by several airports providing domestic and international connectivity. Kenneth Kaunda International Airport is the primary airport, while Lusaka City Airport and Cholongolo Airfield offer additional aviation services for the capital. See all airports →

Lusaka City Airport
5.4 km from centre
Cholongolo Airfield
14.7 km from centre
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport
20.9 km from centre

Car Hire in Lusaka

Lusaka offers several car hire options for visitors and residents needing vehicle rentals. Companies such as Europcar, Bonnet Car Hire, and Crystal Car Hire Limited operate in the city to provide flexible transportation solutions. See all car hire →

Bonnet Car Hire
1.9 km from centre
Europcar
2.0 km from centre
Crystal Car Hire Limited
2.5 km from centre
Llangwe
4.1 km from centre

Things to Do in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore, from cultural and heritage sites managed by the National Heritage Conservation Commission to iconic landmarks like the Freedom Statue. Whether you're interested in historic architecture, local culture, or vibrant city experiences, Lusaka has plenty to discover. See all things to do →

E W Tarry's Building
145 m from centre
Bayport
315 m from centre
National Heritage Conservation Commission
377 m from centre
The Lusaka Hotel
402 m from centre
Freedom Statue
1.2 km from centre
Lusaka National Museum
1.2 km from centre

Restaurants in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a diverse dining scene with restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. Whether you're looking for Portuguese, Indian, or local Zambian fare, establishments like Portuguese Restaurant, Bombay Lounge, Creamosa, and Amatebeto provide varied options for visitors and residents alike. See all restaurants →

Creamosa
ice_cream · 204 m from centre
Portuguese Restaurant
portuguese · 504 m from centre
Bombay Lounge
indian · 561 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Lusaka

Lusaka offers swimming facilities for residents and visitors. The Municipal Swimming Pool is a notable venue in the city, though you should verify current opening hours before planning your visit. See all swimming pools →

Municipal Swimming Pool (Closed)
3.6 km from centre

Spas in Lusaka

We're still gathering spas listings for Lusaka — check back soon.

Nightlife in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a vibrant nightlife with venues ranging from jazz clubs to dance establishments. Popular spots include Misty Jazz Club, Chillas Nite Club, Club Vegas - Annex, and Qube Night Club, alongside the entertainment options available in Sandton City. See all nightlife →

Sandton City
2.0 km from centre
Chillas Nite Club
3.3 km from centre
Misty Jazz Club
3.5 km from centre

Bars in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a variety of bars where visitors and locals can enjoy drinks and socialize. Popular venues in the city include Ponchick, P&B, Smuggler's Pub, Johnny's, and Psalms, each offering their own atmosphere and experience. See all bars →

Ponchick
425 m from centre
P&B
2.0 km from centre
Smuggler's Pub
2.3 km from centre

Cafes in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a selection of cafes where visitors and locals can enjoy quality coffee and casual dining. Notable establishments include Mugg & Bean, Peaberry coffee roasters, The Garden Cafe & Buddha Bar, ZAMCoffee, and Scallywags Cafe And Restaurant, providing various atmospheres for work, socializing, or simply taking a break. See all cafes →

Mugg & Bean
554 m from centre
Peaberry coffee roasters
2.1 km from centre
The Garden Cafe & Buddha Bar
british;american;asian_fusion;mexican · 2.4 km from centre

Shopping in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a variety of shopping destinations for visitors and residents alike. Modern shopping malls including Levy Junction Shopping Mall, Cairo Mall, Oasis Mall, Iringa Mall, and Kamwala Shopping World provide retail, dining, and entertainment options throughout the city. See all shopping →

Levy Junction Shopping Mall
513 m from centre
Cairo Mall
784 m from centre
Oasis Mall
810 m from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Lusaka

Lusaka offers several green spaces and sites of natural and historical interest for visitors. Key destinations include Embassy Park Presidential Burial Site, Small Park, and the Kenneth Kaunda Chilenje House National Monument, which showcase both the city's natural environment and its cultural heritage. See all nature & wildlife →

Embassy Park Presidential Burial Site
3.0 km from centre
Small Park
5.3 km from centre
Kenneth Kaunda Chilenje House National Monument
6.2 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Lusaka experiences a subtropical highland climate influenced by its elevation on the central plateau. The city has distinct wet and dry seasons, with warm conditions throughout much of the year moderated by its altitude.

Interesting Facts About Lusaka — Weird & Wonderful

  • Lusaka is one of the fastest-developing cities in southern Africa
  • The city sits at an elevation of approximately 1,279 metres (4,196 ft) on the southern central plateau
  • Lusaka is the hub connecting Zambia's four main highways heading north, south, east, and west
  • English is the official language of city administration, while Bemba, Tonga, and Chichewa are commonly spoken on the streets

Frequently Asked Questions About Lusaka

What is the official language in Lusaka?

English is the official language of city administration. However, Bemba, Tonga, and Chichewa are the commonly spoken street languages among residents.

What is Lusaka's role in Zambia?

Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia, serving as the centre of both commerce and government. It is a major transportation hub connecting the country's four main highways.

What is the elevation of Lusaka?

Lusaka is situated at an elevation of about 1,279 metres (4,196 ft) on the southern part of Zambia's central plateau.

Is Lusaka a growing city?

Yes, Lusaka is one of the fastest-developing cities in southern Africa, making it an increasingly important economic and administrative centre.

What region of Zambia is Lusaka in?

Lusaka is located in the southern part of the central plateau of Zambia.

Map of Lusaka

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