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Lusaka

Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia, positioned as one of the fastest-developing cities in southern Africa. Situated on the central plateau at an elevation of about 1,279 metres, it serves as the centre of both commerce and government for the entire nation.

Quick facts

Population
1,742,979 (city)
Currency
Zambian kwacha (ZMW)
Language
English
Timezone
CAT (UTC+2)
Local time now
05:01:28

Hotels in Lusaka

Lusaka offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly choices like Broads Backpackers and StayEasy Lusaka to upscale properties such as Hilton Garden Inn Lusaka Society Business Park and Protea Hotel Cairo Road. The Lusaka Hotel provides another option for those seeking a place to stay in Zambia's capital city. See all hotels →

Airports in Lusaka

Lusaka is served by several airports offering domestic and international connections. Kenneth Kaunda International Airport is the main gateway, while Lusaka City Airport and Cholongolo Airfield provide additional aviation services to 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 looking to rent a vehicle. Companies such as Europcar, Bonnet Car Hire, and Crystal Car Hire Limited operate in the city, providing convenient transportation solutions for exploring Zambia's capital and beyond. 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 visitors a range of cultural and historical attractions to explore. From the iconic Freedom Statue to heritage conservation sites and notable landmarks like The Lusaka Hotel, there's plenty to discover in Zambia's vibrant capital city. 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 various cuisines and flavors. From Portuguese Restaurant and Bombay Lounge to Creamosa and Amatebeto, the city's dining establishments cater to different tastes and preferences. 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 pool facilities for residents and visitors. The Municipal Swimming Pool has historically served the community, though current operational status should be verified 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 diverse nightlife experience with venues ranging from upscale clubs to intimate jazz bars. Whether you're looking for dance floors at establishments like Qube Night Club or live music at Misty Jazz Club, the city's entertainment district provides plenty of options for an evening out. 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 socialise. Popular venues include Ponchick, Smuggler's Pub, Johnny's, P&B, and Psalms, each offering their own atmosphere for an evening out. 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 variety of cafes for coffee lovers and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're looking for specialty coffee at Peaberry Coffee Roasters, international chains like Mugg & Bean, or unique venues such as The Garden Cafe & Buddha Bar, you'll find welcoming spots throughout the city to enjoy a beverage and unwind. 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 both locals and visitors. Key retail hubs include Levy Junction Shopping Mall, Cairo Mall, Oasis Mall, Iringa Mall, and Kamwala Shopping World, providing diverse shopping experiences across 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 natural and wildlife spaces for visitors to explore, including Embassy Park Presidential Burial Site and Small Park. The city also preserves important heritage at the Kenneth Kaunda Chilenje House National Monument, combining nature with historical significance. 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's climate reflects its southern African location and elevated plateau position. The city experiences seasonal variations typical of the region, with distinct wet and dry periods throughout the year.

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 central plateau.
  • Lusaka connects to Zambia's four main highways heading north, south, east, and west, making it the country's primary transport hub.
  • While English is the official language of city administration, Bemba, Tonga, and Chichewa are the commonly spoken street languages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lusaka

What is the population of Lusaka?

As of 2022, Lusaka's population was approximately 2,204,059, making it the largest city in Zambia.

What languages are spoken in Lusaka?

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

What is Lusaka's elevation?

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

What is Lusaka's role in Zambia?

Lusaka is the capital of Zambia and serves as the centre of both commerce and government, connecting to the country's four main highways.

Where is Lusaka located in Zambia?

Lusaka is situated in the southern part of the central plateau and functions as Zambia's primary hub for commerce, government, and transportation.

Map of Lusaka

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