Hotels in Lusaka

Lusaka: Zambia's Capital on the Central Plateau

Lusaka sits at 1,280 metres above sea level on Zambia's central plateau, roughly 500 km south of the Copperbelt and 200 km north of the Zimbabwe border at Chirundu. Founded as a railway depot in 1905 and declared capital in 1935, the city now holds over 3 million residents. Cairo Road remains the commercial spine, lined with banks and markets, while Kabulonga and Woodlands districts hold mid-range restaurants, guesthouses, and expatriate-oriented shops. The Lusaka National Museum on Independence Avenue documents Zambian history from precolonial trade networks through independence in 1964.

Where to Stay and Getting Around

Most hotels cluster along Great East Road and in Rhodespark, within 10–15 minutes of Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN), which received a terminal expansion in 2023. Business travellers visiting the UN agencies and NGOs based here favour this corridor. The Soweto Market near the bus terminus is the city's largest open-air market, selling fresh produce, fabric, and crafts — a practical orientation point for first-time visitors.

Practical Tips

• Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW); USD accepted at most hotels but at lower rates than bureau de change.
• Climate: Cool dry season runs May–August; pack warm layers for evenings above 1,200 m.
• Transport: Minibuses run fixed routes cheaply; ride-hailing apps (Ulendo, inDriver) operate citywide.
• Onward travel: InterCity buses to Livingstone (470 km south, roughly 7 hours) depart from Intercity Bus Terminal off Dedan Kimathi Road.