About Lusaka
Lusaka grew from a small railway siding into the capital of Northern Rhodesia in 1935, and after independence in 1964 it became the capital of Zambia. It is a fast-growing, friendly city of broad avenues, busy markets and jacaranda trees that turn the streets purple in September and October, sitting on a high plateau where evenings are pleasantly cool.
Most travellers pass through on their way to the Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa or Victoria Falls, but the capital rewards a stay of a day or two. The National Museum explains Zambia's history and cultures, Kabwata Cultural Village sells carvings and baskets from old colonial-era huts, and Embassy Park honours the country's founding president Kenneth Kaunda and his successors.
Wildlife is closer than many expect. Lusaka National Park, opened in 2015 on the edge of the city, has white rhinos and giraffes, and orphaned elephants are raised for release at the Lilayi nursery to the south. At weekends join locals at the Sunday craft market and try nshima, the maize staple, with grilled chicken or fish.
Best seasonMay-August for cool, dry weather; September-October for jacarandas
Ideal stay1-2 days on the way to Zambia's national parks
ArrivingKenneth Kaunda International Airport; long-distance buses from Livingstone and neighbouring countries
