Things to Do in Lusaka in March

March Weather in Lusaka

27°C (80°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

86 mm (3.4 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect shoulder season timing - school holidays haven't started yet, so accommodation prices are 30-40% lower than peak season and popular spots aren't overcrowded
Ideal weather for outdoor activities - morning temperatures around 20°C (68°F) make early hiking and city walking comfortable, while afternoons hit 27°C (80°F) perfect for swimming
Prime time for Victoria Falls viewing - March sits at the end of rainy season when the falls are at maximum flow but mist levels allow for spectacular photography
Excellent game viewing conditions - animals congregate around water sources as the dry season approaches, vegetation is still lush from rains but not overgrown

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms hit 10 days out of 31 - typically between 2-5pm lasting 1-2 hours, which can disrupt outdoor plans and make some dirt roads temporarily impassable
High humidity levels at 70% make midday activities feel more exhausting than temperature suggests - you'll sweat more and need frequent hydration breaks
End of green season means some lodges and tour operators in remote areas are still completing maintenance from rainy season closures

Best Activities in March

Victoria Falls Adventure Activities

March offers the perfect balance for Victoria Falls experiences - the falls are at peak flow from rainy season runoff, creating spectacular views and powerful mist clouds. Morning temperatures of 20°C (68°F) make walking trails comfortable, while afternoon heat of 27°C (80°F) is ideal for white-water rafting and bungee jumping. Helicopter flights have excellent visibility before afternoon storms roll in.

Booking Tip: Book helicopter flights and bungee jumping for morning slots (8-11am) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. White-water rafting is excellent as river levels are optimal. Expect to pay 20-30% less than peak season rates. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators with proper safety certifications.

Lusaka City Cultural Walking Tours

March's mild morning temperatures make extended city walking comfortable, while afternoon rains provide natural break points for indoor cultural sites. The Lusaka National Museum and cultural centers offer air-conditioned respite during peak heat. Local markets are vibrant with fresh seasonal produce, and street food vendors adapt menus for the transitional season.

Booking Tip: Start tours early (8am) to complete outdoor portions before afternoon heat and potential storms. Cultural sites typically cost K50-100 entry. Many walking tour operators offer flexible schedules to work around weather. Book 2-3 days ahead for small group experiences.

Lower Zambezi National Park Safari Excursions

March marks the transition from wet to dry season, creating ideal game viewing as animals concentrate near permanent water sources. Morning game drives in 20°C (68°F) weather are comfortable, while afternoon boat safaris on the Zambezi offer cooling river breezes. Vegetation is lush but not overgrown, providing excellent photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Book multi-day packages combining game drives and river activities for best value, typically K1,500-2,500 per day including meals. March bookings are 25% cheaper than dry season peak. Reserve 2-3 weeks ahead as some remote camps are just reopening after rainy season maintenance.

Kafue National Park Wildlife Photography Tours

March's dramatic skies from building thunderstorms create spectacular photography backdrops. Animals are active in cooler morning temperatures, and the contrast between lush green vegetation and wildlife is at its peak. Afternoon storms often clear to reveal golden light perfect for sunset photography.

Booking Tip: Photography-focused tours typically cost K2,000-3,000 per day including specialized guides and equipment protection. Book with operators who provide weather-protective gear for cameras. Morning and late afternoon drives offer best lighting - avoid midday heat and storms.

Traditional Village Cultural Immersion

March coincides with harvest celebrations in many rural communities as the growing season concludes. Villages are accessible after rainy season road improvements, and cultural activities center around traditional food preparation using fresh seasonal ingredients. Afternoon rains often lead to extended indoor cultural exchanges and storytelling sessions.

Booking Tip: Community-based tourism experiences range K200-500 per day including meals and activities. Book through registered cultural tourism organizations to ensure fair community benefit. Allow flexibility for weather-related schedule changes, which often lead to more authentic interactions.

Copper Mine Historical Tours

March's cooler morning temperatures make underground mine tours more comfortable, while surface installations can be explored before afternoon heat peaks. The Copperbelt region is easily accessible as roads are in good condition post-rainy season. Industrial heritage sites offer air-conditioned facilities during weather breaks.

Booking Tip: Mine tours cost K150-300 per person and must be booked through official channels for safety compliance. Morning tours (8-11am) are most comfortable. Transportation from Lusaka typically adds K400-600. Book 1 week ahead as group sizes are limited for safety reasons.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Zambia International Trade Fair

One of Southern Africa's largest trade exhibitions featuring local crafts, agricultural products, and cultural performances. March dates vary yearly but typically occur mid-month. Excellent opportunity to experience local commerce and sample regional foods in covered pavilions protected from afternoon rains.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon thunderstorms last 1-2 hours and can be intense, but morning weather is typically clear

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 and altitude of 1,280m (4,200ft) intensifies sun exposure

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity which will make you feel much hotter than actual 27°C (80°F) temperatures

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - morning dew and afternoon rains can make surfaces slippery, especially on trails

Quick-dry clothing for layering - temperature swings from 17°C (62°F) at dawn to 27°C (80°F) afternoon require adaptable clothing

Insect repellent with DEET - March's humidity and standing water from rains increase mosquito activity, especially at dawn and dusk

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - essential for protecting electronics during sudden afternoon downpours

Light sweater or fleece - early morning game drives and evening activities can feel cool at 17°C (62°F) with morning mist

Sturdy daypack with rain cover - for carrying layers as weather changes and protecting belongings during outdoor activities

Comfortable sandals for wet conditions - afternoon rains can soak shoes, having dry footwear option is essential for evening comfort

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations on the higher floors or with good drainage - March's intense afternoon rains can cause temporary flooding in lower-level rooms, especially in older buildings around Cairo Road area

Plan indoor activities between 2-5pm when thunderstorms are most likely - locals use this time for shopping in enclosed markets like Soweto Market or visiting museums and cultural centers

Carry small denomination kwacha notes - street vendors and informal transport operators often can't make change for larger bills, especially during busy periods before and after storms

Many restaurants adjust their menus in March to feature seasonal ingredients like fresh maize, pumpkin leaves, and caterpillars - ask about 'seasonal specials' for authentic local flavors you won't find other times of year

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning full-day outdoor itineraries without weather flexibility - afternoon storms will disrupt plans, so build in indoor alternatives between 2-5pm

Underestimating how much cooler 17°C (62°F) feels at dawn - many visitors pack only for daytime heat and shiver during early morning activities

Assuming all tour operators run full schedules - some remote lodges and adventure operators are still reopening after rainy season maintenance, so confirm availability when booking