Lusaka is the capital of Zambia and the country's transport hub. Sitting on a plateau about 1,280 metres above sea level, its climate is moderate despite the nearness of the equator, and evenings cool down. The city grew quickly after being made capital in 1935; Cairo Road forms the main axis of the centre, and the Freedom Statue, which marks Zambia's independence in 1964, stands close to it. For most travellers Lusaka is a gateway: Victoria Falls to the south west and the South Luangwa and Kafue national parks to the east and west all connect through here.
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See flights to Lusaka →When to visit Lusaka
May to August is the dry, cool season, with daytime around 25C and nights down to 10C, and it is the best period for safari because animals gather at the water sources. September and October stay dry but pass 32C. November to April is the rainy season, when the vegetation turns green but dirt roads become difficult.
Things to do in Lusaka
Lusaka National Museum
Opened in 1996, the museum presents a narrative running from Zambia's prehistoric finds to the independence period and holds the country's contemporary art collection. Its ethnography section displays traditional masks, musical instruments and objects from healing practices.
Freedom Statue
The bronze statue of a figure breaking his chains was raised to mark Zambia's independence in 1964 and is the emblem used on the country's coat of arms and banknotes. Independence day ceremonies are held here each year.
Kabwata Cultural Village
A settlement of round thatched huts dating from the 1930s, it now serves as the workshop and market of craftspeople from different parts of the country. Wood carving, basketry, stone sculpture and weaving can be watched as they are made.
Munda Wanga Environmental Park
The park about 15 kilometres south of the centre was founded as a botanical garden in the 1950s and works today as a wildlife rescue centre. Confiscated or injured animals are cared for and prepared for release here, and the garden section holds native and tropical plant collections.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross
Completed in 1957, the Anglican cathedral stands beside the government buildings of the centre with its pointed arches and white facade. Zambia's independence ceremony opened with a service here, and national commemorations are still held in this church.
Lilayi Elephant Nursery
The care centre south of the city raises orphaned elephant calves and prepares them for release into Kafue National Park. At the once daily feeding hour visitors can watch the calves from a viewing platform.
Flights from Turkey to Lusaka
Turkish Airlines flies from Istanbul to Lusaka under a single flight number with a stop in Dar es Salaam, a journey of about 11 hours. There is no change of aircraft at the stop, so there is no risk of missing a connection.
Lusaka FAQ
How many days do you need in Lusaka?
Two days are enough for the city itself. Lusaka is mostly a gateway: adding Victoria Falls or a South Luangwa safari brings the whole programme to between seven and ten days.
How far is the airport from the city centre?
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport is about 25 kilometres north east of the centre. The taxi ride takes around 30 to 40 minutes.
What do you need to enter Zambia?
No visa is required for a Turkish passport for tourism, and stays of up to 90 days are allowed. A yellow fever certificate is required if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is present, and as malaria is found across the country a doctor should be consulted about prophylaxis before travel.
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