Things to Do in Lusaka in November

November Weather in Lusaka

30°C (86°F) High Temp

18°C (64°F) Low Temp

79mm (3.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Pre-rainy season freshness - dust has settled from dry season but heavy rains haven't started, creating the clearest air quality of the year
Jacaranda blooms peak throughout the city - purple flowering trees line major streets creating spectacular natural displays from late October through November
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 25-40% compared to dry season peaks, with excellent availability at premium properties
Perfect temperatures for outdoor activities - mornings start cool at 18°C (64°F), warm to comfortable 30°C (86°F) by midday, then cool evening breezes make dining outdoors ideal

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms - 40% chance daily between 2-5pm, can disrupt outdoor plans and create temporary flooding on some roads
High humidity makes midday activities more challenging - 70% humidity combined with 30°C (86°F) temperatures feels much hotter than actual reading
Some tourist services operate reduced schedules as operators prepare for rainy season maintenance closures in December-January

Best Activities in November

Victoria Falls Day Trips

November offers the falls at 60% flow - perfect for viewing both dramatic cascades and the exposed rock formations. Clear pre-rainy season air provides exceptional photography conditions, and helicopter flights operate at full capacity. The Zambezi River is warm enough for swimming activities upstream.

Booking Tip: Book helicopter flights and river activities 7-10 days ahead as November sees steady demand. Day trips typically cost K800-1200 ($30-45) including transport. Choose morning departures to avoid afternoon storms. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Kafue National Park Game Drives

Optimal game viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources before rains begin. Vegetation is low from dry season, making wildlife spotting easier. Cool morning temperatures 18°C (64°F) mean active animal behavior until 10am. Road conditions are at their best before rainy season deterioration.

Booking Tip: Book 2-week safaris through licensed operators for K2000-3500 ($75-130) full day including meals. Morning game drives 6am-10am offer best sightings. Park requires 4WD vehicles - verify with operators.

Lusaka City Heritage Walks

Perfect walking weather with cool mornings and manageable midday heat. November timing captures the city's jacaranda bloom season along Independence Avenue and Cairo Road. Lower dust levels mean better conditions for exploring outdoor markets and street art districts.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks work well, or book guided cultural tours for K200-400 ($8-15) for 3-4 hours. Start by 8am to complete before afternoon heat peaks. Focus on covered markets during midday hours.

Chaminuka Game Reserve Activities

Excellent conditions for horseback safaris and walking tours with comfortable temperatures and good visibility. The reserve's elevated location 30km (19 miles) from Lusaka catches cooling breezes. Wildlife is active in cooler morning and evening periods.

Booking Tip: Day packages typically K1500-2500 ($55-95) including activities and meals. Book horseback rides for early morning or late afternoon slots. Reserve requires advance booking 3-5 days for weekend visits.

Local Market Food Tours

November marks peak season for local produce - fresh mangoes, maize, and seasonal vegetables flood markets. Comfortable morning temperatures make market exploration pleasant. Traditional brewing season begins with new grain harvests.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours range K300-600 ($12-22) for 4-5 hours including tastings. Visit Soweto Market or City Market between 7-10am for freshest produce and comfortable temperatures. Bring cash in small denominations.

Zambezi River Sunset Cruises

River levels ideal for boat access to all channels while maintaining scenic flow. November sunsets occur around 6:30pm with spectacular colors reflecting off water. Comfortable evening temperatures 22°C (72°F) perfect for deck seating.

Booking Tip: Day trips to Zambezi from Lusaka cost K1800-2800 ($65-105) including transport and cruise. Book sunset cruises 5-7 days ahead. Departures typically 4:30pm from Lusaka to reach river by 6pm.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Lusaka International Film Festival

Annual screening of African and international films across multiple venues including cinemas and outdoor locations. Features documentaries, shorts, and feature films with focus on African storytelling. Evening screenings take advantage of comfortable November temperatures.

Late November

Agricultural and Commercial Show Preparation Events

Pre-show exhibitions and demonstrations at the Showgrounds as vendors and exhibitors prepare for the main August event. November features smaller agricultural displays showcasing rainy season preparations and new farming techniques.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella - afternoon storms arrive quickly and last 30-45 minutes with heavy downpours

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with intense equatorial sun despite cloud cover

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - afternoon rains create slippery surfaces on concrete and tile

Light layers for temperature variation - 12°C (22°F) difference between dawn and midday requires adjustability

Quick-dry shorts and shirts for active days - high humidity means clothing stays damp longer

Insect repellent with DEET - increased mosquito activity around standing water from early rains

Waterproof phone case or bag - protect electronics during sudden downpours and market visits

Cash in small denominations - many local vendors and transport operators don't accept cards or large bills

Light scarf or wrap for air-conditioned spaces - shopping centers and restaurants can feel cold after outdoor heat

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Kabulonga or Roma areas - these elevated neighborhoods catch better breezes and have less flooding during storms than central business district

Time outdoor activities for 7am-11am and 4pm-6pm windows - locals avoid midday sun and afternoon storm periods for non-essential outdoor tasks

Stock up on snacks before 2pm - many street food vendors close during afternoon storms, and restaurants may experience deliveries delays

Use the storm period for indoor activities - visit museums, shopping centers, or book spa treatments for 2-5pm when storms are most likely

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling important outdoor activities for afternoon without weather backup plans - 40% of days have storms between 2-5pm

Underestimating how hot 30°C (86°F) feels in 70% humidity - visitors often overbook midday activities and become exhausted

Not carrying cash for minibus transport and market purchases - card acceptance is limited outside major hotels and restaurants