Things to Do in Lusaka in September

September Weather in Lusaka

31°C (88°F) High Temp

16°C (60°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - perfect for outdoor activities and walking tours through the city center without weather interruptions
Warm days 31°C (88°F) ideal for exploring markets and outdoor attractions, while cool evenings 16°C (60°F) make for comfortable dining and nightlife
Pre-rainy season timing means dust levels are lower and air quality is at its annual best, perfect for photography and sightseeing
Jacaranda trees in full purple bloom across the city, creating spectacular natural displays in areas like Cathedral Hill and along Independence Avenue

Considerations

High UV index of 8 requires constant sun protection and limits comfortable outdoor activities to early morning and late afternoon
Large temperature swings from 31°C (88°F) days to 16°C (60°F) nights require layered clothing and careful packing
End of dry season means water levels at nearby attractions like Victoria Falls are at their lowest, though still impressive

Best Activities in September

Victoria Falls Day Trips

September offers the clearest views of the falls structure with lower water levels, perfect for photography and walking the full length of viewing points. The 1.7 km (1.1 mile) walk along the Knife Edge Bridge is most accessible now, and helicopter flights have optimal visibility. Though not peak flow season, the falls remain spectacular and you can see the rock formations typically hidden by mist.

Booking Tip: Book helicopter flights and guided tours 2-3 weeks ahead as September is peak viewing season for photography. Day trips from Lusaka typically run ZMW 800-1,200 ($30-45) including transport. Look for operators offering early morning departures to maximize cool weather time. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Lusaka City Walking Tours

September's comfortable morning temperatures make this the ideal month for exploring downtown Lusaka on foot. Start at 7:00 AM when temperatures are around 18°C (64°F) and finish by 11:00 AM before peak heat. The clear skies provide excellent lighting for photographing colonial architecture around Cathedral Hill and the vibrant markets along Cairo Road.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours starting between 7:00-8:00 AM to avoid afternoon heat. Group tours typically cost ZMW 150-300 ($6-12) per person. Private guides range ZMW 400-600 ($15-23) for 3-4 hours. Many operators offer cultural combinations including traditional craft workshops.

Kafue National Park Safari Tours

Late dry season concentrates wildlife around permanent water sources, making game viewing exceptional. Animals are easier to spot in thinned vegetation, and comfortable temperatures allow for full-day safaris. The 2.5-hour drive from Lusaka (22,400 km²/8,648 sq mi park) rewards visitors with excellent elephant, antelope, and bird sightings.

Booking Tip: Multi-day packages offer better value than day trips, typically ZMW 2,000-3,500 ($75-130) for 2-day/1-night tours including accommodation and meals. Book through licensed operators with proper vehicle insurance. Early morning game drives are essential - animals are most active before 9:00 AM.

Lower Zambezi Canoeing Expeditions

September's lower water levels create perfect conditions for canoe safaris with calmer currents and exposed sandbanks where elephants gather. The 120 km (75 mile) stretch between Chirundu and Luangwa confluence offers the country's best water-based wildlife viewing. Clear skies mean excellent photography opportunities of hippos, crocodiles, and riverside elephants.

Booking Tip: Multi-day canoe safaris typically cost ZMW 3,000-5,000 ($115-190) for 3-day expeditions including camping and meals. Book 3-4 weeks ahead as September is peak season for water activities. Ensure operators provide proper life jackets and emergency communication devices.

Traditional Craft Village Tours

September's comfortable weather makes it ideal for visiting artisan communities around Lusaka where traditional pottery, basket weaving, and wood carving are demonstrated. The low humidity preserves craft materials better, and artisans often work outdoors during the pleasant morning hours. Communities like Ng'ombe and Kamwala offer authentic cultural experiences.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours typically cost ZMW 200-400 ($8-15) including transport and craft workshop participation. Look for community-based tourism operators that ensure fair compensation for local artisans. Morning tours 8:00-12:00 PM offer the best weather and artisan availability.

Chisamba Hills Nature Walks

The hills 45 km (28 miles) north of Lusaka offer excellent hiking in September's clear, cool conditions. Trails range from 2-8 km (1.2-5 miles) with elevation gains of 200-400 m (656-1,312 ft). Wildlife includes various antelope species, and the rocky outcrops provide panoramic views of the Lusaka plateau. Morning mist often creates dramatic photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Day hikes typically cost ZMW 300-500 ($12-19) including transport and guide services. Bring at least 2 liters (0.5 gallons) of water per person as September heat intensifies quickly after 11:00 AM. Local guides charge ZMW 100-200 ($4-8) for trail navigation and wildlife spotting assistance.

September Events & Festivals

Early to Mid September

Zambia International Trade Fair

Lusaka's largest annual commercial exhibition featuring local and international businesses, cultural performances, and traditional food vendors. The fair showcases Zambian industries from mining to agriculture, with evening entertainment including traditional dance competitions and contemporary music performances.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts in breathable cotton - essential for 70% humidity and protection from UV index 8 during midday

Warm jacket or fleece for evenings dropping to 16°C (60°F) - locals wear layers from afternoon onward

Wide-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen - September sun is intense with minimal cloud cover for protection

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - dry season means dusty, uneven surfaces in markets and tourist areas

Light rain jacket or umbrella - despite low rainfall, afternoon storms can develop quickly and last 30-45 minutes

Insect repellent with DEET - September marks the beginning of mosquito season as temperatures warm

Portable water bottle (at least 1 liter/34 oz capacity) - dehydration happens quickly in dry, warm conditions

Power bank and universal adapter - load shedding (power cuts) are common and can last 4-8 hours

Dust mask or scarf for covering face - late dry season means significant dust on unpaved roads and construction areas

Moisturizer and lip balm - low humidity and dry winds cause skin irritation, especially for visitors from humid climates

Insider Knowledge

Shop at Soweto Market between 6:00-8:00 AM when temperatures are coolest and produce is freshest - vendors often discount items before the heat intensifies

Book accommodations with backup generators - September marks increased load shedding as the country prepares for rainy season power grid maintenance

Carry small denomination kwacha notes (ZMW 2, 5, 10) - many vendors cannot break larger bills, especially at markets and for public transport

Visit outdoor attractions like the National Museum gardens and Freedom Statue early morning or after 4:00 PM - midday temperatures make walking uncomfortable and photography challenging due to harsh shadows

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the 15°C (27°F) temperature swing between day and night - many visitors pack only for warm weather and struggle with cold evenings

Planning outdoor activities during midday hours 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM when temperatures peak and UV exposure is dangerous

Not carrying enough water during city walking tours - the combination of 31°C (88°F) heat, 70% humidity, and urban pollution increases dehydration risk significantly