Lusaka as a Destination
- Tyrone McKeith
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
“What is Lusaka like? Is there anything to do there?”
It’s a question we’re asked surprisingly often by guests planning a safari to Zambia.
Lusaka is not a traditional sightseeing capital in the way that Cape Town or Nairobi might be, but that doesn’t mean it’s without charm or interest. As Zambia’s capital and largest city, Lusaka is lively, friendly and very much a working African city. It’s often used as a convenient overnight stop before or after a safari, but for those with a little extra time, there are certainly ways to enjoy it.
Below, we’ve broken things into two simple parts: where to stay and what to do, with some honest context on whether Lusaka is worth extending your trip for.
Where to Stay in Lusaka
When choosing accommodation in Lusaka, proximity to the international airport can be important for one-night stopovers. For two-night stays or longer, location becomes less critical and atmosphere often matters more.
Boutique & Characterful Options
Latitude 15° - A long-standing favourite with travellers. Stylish, comfortable and chic, Latitude 15° is located in the quieter Kabulonga area. It also benefits from having excellent restaurants within walking distance (including La Cantina Mexican Restaurant). Around an hour drive from the airport.
Lilayi Lodge - Arguably the most beautiful setting of any lodge within/near Lusaka. Set within a vast private game farm, Lilayi offers open space, wildlife sightings, walking and running trails, and a real sense of escape from the city. It is further from the airport (apprx. 1h30mins drive), but for guests staying two nights, the setting more than makes up for the drive (they also have their own airstrip).
Luxury (Larger-Scale) Hotels
Ciela Resort - A modern, high-end resort with spacious rooms, excellent facilities and its own championship golf course. While larger and more corporate in feel, it’s ideal for guests looking for comfort and consistency and all only 10 minutes from the airport.
International Hotel Chains
Radisson Blu , Protea, InterContinental, etc. - All very reliable, larger, more corporate hotels well-located for business travellers and safari guests alike.
Mid-Range & Lodge-Style Accommodation
Wild Dog Lodge - One of the closest lodge-style options to the international airport, making it ideal for easy overnight stays. Relaxed, friendly, simple and good value. Our most commonly-booked Lusaka accommodation for our guests.
Pioneer Camp - A very simply long-running property, nearby to Wild Dog Lodge, offering safari-tent accommodation and chalets in a leafy setting, just outside the city.
Guesthouses
For travellers looking for something simpler, more personal and exclusive :
These are comfortable, beautifully appointed, more intimate options - but less catered experiences, often requiring taxis for dining and activities.
What to Do in Lusaka
Lusaka isn’t about ticking off major attractions — it’s more about enjoying good food, relaxed activities and a glimpse into everyday Zambian life.
Restaurants & Eating Out
Lusaka has a surprisingly good food scene, particularly in its more upmarket suburbs.
Cantina Mexican Restaurant – A long-time favourite and within walking distance of Latitude 15°.
Little Bird – Popular for relaxed breakfasts and lunches.
Marlin Steakhouse – A Lusaka institution, well known for quality Zambian Beef steaks.
Golf
For golf enthusiasts, Lusaka offers some excellent courses:
Lusaka Golf Club – Conveniently centrally located (near Latitude 15°) and steeped in history.
Bonanza Golf Course – A standout option with a relaxed atmosphere and its own brewery. Be sure to try the ZAPA (Zambia Pale Ale) after your round.
Wildlife & Conservation Experiences
Lusaka itself is not a wildlife destination — which is precisely why Zambia’s national parks and our safari camps exist. That said, there is one worthwhile experience if timing allows:
Lusaka National Park – GRI Discovery Centre & Elephant Orphanage - The park itself is modest, though it does host species such as giraffe and sable. The highlight is the Game Rangers International (GRI) Discovery Centre and Elephant Orphanage. Every day around midday, orphaned elephants are brought out by their keepers for visitors to view from a raised deck. It’s an enjoyable and educational experience, offering insight into Zambia’s conservation efforts and the work being done to protect its wildlife.
Oh and a secret-tip for November visitors is an amazing mini-migration of the famour Straw-coloured Fruitbat (famous in Kasanka Natonal Park) who roost at the Lusaka Golf Club!
So… Is Lusaka Worth Spending Time In?
In short: Lusaka doesn’t have headline attractions, but it also has nothing wrong with it.
For most safari travellers, one night in Lusaka is perfectly adequate. However, if your schedule allows an extra night or two, you’ll be rewarded with good food, welcoming people and a relaxed introduction to Zambia beyond the bush.
Zambians are famously friendly, and Lusaka’s warm, welcoming atmosphere is infectious. Whether you pass through briefly or linger a little longer, Lusaka serves as a gentle, honest gateway to the extraordinary wilderness experiences that lie beyond the city.
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