Lusaka

The sprawling chaotic city of Lusaka has a certain African charm, even though the passing tourist may see little worth stopping for.

Lusaka didn't exist until 1930, and was then just a sleepy agricultural centre. It became Zambia's capital in 1935, but serious growth didn't occur until the 1960's. The size of the city has tripled since then, and Lusaka is bursting at the seams.

Although the city has grown too fast and is the product of a country battling to find its way in a 'new' world, the truly fascinating thing about Lusaka is its energy.

Well over 60% of its population is unemployed, but despite this fact there are surprisingly few beggars. Also the market stall holders are polite, and will not try to force you to buy their products.

Lusaka has a fantastic climate; the summers are warm and sunny, spotted here and there with thundershowers, and the winters are mild with stacks of sunshine.

The city has recently had a face-lift with new shops, fast food outlets and even a multimillion-dollar shopping mall, but despite this there is really little here to attract the passing tourists.

If you find yourself overnighting in Lusaka, while awaiting your connecting flight to nearby Kafue National Park or Lower Zambezi National Park, we'd recommend staying at the Southern Sun Ridgeway Lusaka.

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