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Lusaka

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Zambia, Central Zambia, An impressive monument erected on a large round about in Lusaka, Zambias capital, to commemorate its hosting of the third conference of non-aligned nations in 1970..

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Overview

All roads lead to Lusaka, the geographic, commercial and metaphorical heart of Zambia. However, the nation's capital and largest urban zone, with its mishmash of dusty tree-lined streets, bustling African markets, Soviet-looking high-rise blocks and modern commerce, doesn't easily justify exploration by the casual visitor. There are no real attractions, grand museums to drool over or historical treasures to unearth. Nonetheless, for some, the city's genuine African feel, cosmopolitan populace and quality restaurants and accommodation are reason enough to spend a night or two. If you feel like letting loose, expat bars and the home-grown nightclub scene will see you through to the wee hours.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Lusaka National Park

    Lusaka National Park

    Lusaka

    The idea of seeing a rhino in the wild just 15km from the capital seems absurd, but this new national park (opened in 2015) allows you to do just that…

  • Wildlife Discovery Centre

    Wildlife Discovery Centre

    Lusaka

    On the southern outskirts of town is this elephant nursery set up by Game Rangers International (a Zambian conservationist NGO), which works with rescuing…

  • Lusaka National Museum

    Lusaka National Museum

    Lusaka

    This big square box of a building resembling a Soviet-era Moscow ministry has upstairs galleries displaying exhibits on urban culture and Zambian history…

  • Munda Wanga Environmental Park

    Munda Wanga Environmental Park

    Lusaka

    Munda Wanga Environmental Park is a rescue centre of sorts, with a variety of animals, including rarely seen pangolins and owls used for black magic. The…

  • Presidential Burial Site National Monument

    Presidential Burial Site National Monument

    Lusaka

    This mausoleum is where the late Zambian presidents Levy Patrick Mwanawasa (1948–2008), Frederick Chiluba (1943–2011) and Michael Sata (1937–2014) are…

  • Namwandwe Gallery

    Namwandwe Gallery

    Lusaka

    Featuring the impressive private collection of businessman and patron of the arts John Kapotwe, Namwandwe is hands-down the best in the country for…

  • Freedom Statue

    Freedom Statue

    Lusaka

    The Freedom Statue, around the corner from the Lusaka National Museum, is dedicated to freedom fighters and those who lost their lives in the struggle for…

  • Lusaka City Market

    Lusaka City Market

    Lusaka

    Fronted by the chaotic and congested eponymously named bus station, as well as a veritable Maginot Line of sidewalk vendors, reaching the entrance to the…

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