Lusaka Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Lusaka.
Healthcare System
Lusaka's healthcare system is two-tiered, with public facilities that are often overcrowded and under-resourced, and private clinics and hospitals that offer significantly better care but at higher costs. Most international travelers use private healthcare facilities.
Hospitals
Recommended private facilities include Fairview Hospital, Victoria Hospital, and Care for Business (CFB) Medical Centre. These facilities can handle most routine medical needs and minor emergencies. For serious conditions, medical evacuation insurance is essential as local facilities may not have advanced equipment or specialists.
Pharmacies
Private pharmacies are well-stocked with common medications in major shopping areas like East Park Mall, Manda Hill, and Levy Junction. Many international brand medications are available, though some may be under different names. Pharmacies typically operate during business hours (9am-5pm) with limited weekend hours. Bring sufficient prescription medications as specific brands may not be available.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and medical evacuation is strongly recommended and often required by private facilities before treatment. Ensure your policy covers evacuation to South Africa, as this may be necessary for serious conditions.
Healthcare Tips
- Always carry your travel insurance details and emergency contact numbers
- Bring a sufficient supply of prescription medications in original packaging with prescriptions
- Water quality varies - stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended; consult your doctor before travel
- Private clinics often require upfront payment or insurance guarantee before treatment
- Keep copies of medical records and prescriptions in case you need treatment
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles are the most common crimes affecting tourists. Thieves often work in teams and target distracted tourists in crowded areas, markets, and bus stations.
Smash-and-grab thefts from vehicles stopped at traffic lights or in parking areas are relatively common. Thieves may break windows to grab bags, phones, or other visible items.
Armed robbery and mugging can occur, particularly after dark. While violent crime against tourists is less common than petty theft, it does happen, especially in isolated areas or when walking alone at night.
Road accidents are a significant risk due to poor road conditions, aggressive driving, poorly maintained vehicles, pedestrians on roadways, and lack of street lighting. Minibus taxis are particularly dangerous.
Frequent power outages affect security lighting, traffic signals, and ATMs. This can increase vulnerability to crime and create traffic hazards.
Malaria is present in Lusaka, particularly during and after the rainy season. Waterborne illnesses like typhoid and cholera can occur. HIV/AIDS prevalence is high.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as police officers may stop tourists, claim there's a problem with their documents or that they've committed an offense, and demand immediate payment of a 'fine' or request to inspect your wallet for 'counterfeit currency.'
Unlicensed taxi drivers or those at airports and hotels may quote inflated prices to tourists unfamiliar with local rates, sometimes 5-10 times the normal fare.
Street money changers may offer better rates than banks but use sleight of hand to shortchange you, provide counterfeit notes, or work with accomplices who rob you after the exchange.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions, showing you something) while an accomplice steals your belongings.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to represent orphanages or charities, requesting donations or trying to sell items allegedly made by orphans. Many are fraudulent.
Sellers claim to offer valuable gemstones (especially emeralds, which Zambia produces) or authentic antiques at 'special prices,' but items are fake or vastly overpriced.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) separate from originals
- Register with your embassy upon arrival for emergency notifications
- Share your itinerary with family or friends back home
- Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone and written down
- Trust your instincts - if something feels unsafe, remove yourself from the situation
- Learn basic phrases in local languages (Nyanja or Bemba) to help with communication
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during daylight hours
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave excess cash and valuables in hotel safe
- Distribute money across different locations (wallet, bag, hotel safe)
- Use credit cards only at reputable establishments
- Keep small denominations for taxis and small purchases
- Be discreet when handling money; don't display large amounts
Transportation
- Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps; avoid unmarked vehicles
- If renting a car, choose a reputable company and inspect the vehicle thoroughly
- Keep car doors locked and windows mostly closed while driving
- Avoid driving after dark when possible
- Be extremely cautious around minibus taxis - they often drive recklessly
- Always wear seatbelts; child car seats are rarely available, so bring your own if traveling with children
- Plan routes in advance and use GPS; avoid getting lost in unfamiliar areas
Accommodation
- Choose accommodations with good security (guards, secure parking, safes)
- Keep doors and windows locked, even when inside
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify identity through peephole or call reception
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Check that accommodations have backup power (generator) for load shedding
- Read recent reviews about safety and security before booking
Health Precautions
- Take malaria prophylaxis and use insect repellent, especially at dawn and dusk
- Drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water; avoid ice unless you know it's from safe water
- Eat at busy, reputable restaurants where food turnover is high
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid contact with animals, including dogs, to prevent rabies risk
- Be cautious with raw vegetables and fruits unless you can peel them yourself
- Update routine vaccinations and get recommended travel vaccines before departure
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas; avoid revealing clothing
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Avoid public displays of affection beyond hand-holding
- Respect local customs and traditions; Zambia is predominantly Christian
- Be patient with service - the pace of life is generally slower
- Greetings are important - take time to greet people properly
- Avoid discussing politics or criticizing the government publicly
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication (Airtel, MTN, or Zamtel)
- Keep your phone charged; carry a power bank due to frequent power outages
- Save important numbers in your phone and write them down as backup
- Learn the location of your embassy or consulate
- Internet can be unreliable; download maps and important information for offline use
- WhatsApp is widely used for communication in Zambia
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers generally report feeling safe in Lusaka with appropriate precautions, though they may experience unwanted attention, catcalling, or verbal harassment, particularly when alone. Physical harassment is less common but can occur. Zambian society is relatively conservative, and solo women travelers may attract curiosity. Most interactions are harmless, but maintaining awareness and boundaries is important.
- Dress modestly - cover shoulders and knees, especially outside tourist areas and hotels
- Avoid walking alone after dark; use taxis even for short distances at night
- Be firm but polite in declining unwanted attention; don't feel obligated to be overly friendly
- Consider wearing a fake wedding ring to deflect unwanted romantic attention
- Sit in the back seat of taxis and keep windows mostly up
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers for safety in numbers
- Keep your phone charged and have emergency contacts readily accessible
- Be cautious about sharing accommodation details or travel plans with strangers
- Choose accommodations with good security and 24-hour reception
- Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and keep your drink in sight at bars
- Be aware that some men may interpret friendliness as romantic interest
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is illegal in Zambia, with potential penalties including imprisonment of up to 15 years. Same-sex marriage is not recognized. While prosecutions are rare, the legal framework creates a hostile environment.
- Exercise extreme discretion; avoid public displays of affection
- Do not discuss sexual orientation or gender identity openly
- Be cautious about LGBTQ+ dating apps, as they may be used to target individuals
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations in advance, though options are very limited
- Consider the risks carefully before traveling; some LGBTQ+ travelers may prefer alternative destinations
- If traveling as a couple, book rooms with two beds or present as friends/colleagues
- Be aware that hotel staff may question or refuse accommodation to same-sex couples
- Avoid LGBTQ+ activism or advocacy during your visit
- Have emergency contacts for your embassy, as they may be your best resource if issues arise
- Connect with international LGBTQ+ travel resources before departure for current information
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is absolutely essential for Lusaka. Medical facilities capable of treating serious conditions are limited, and medical evacuation to South Africa or Kenya can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Many private healthcare facilities require proof of insurance or upfront payment before providing treatment. Additionally, insurance protects against theft, which is common, and trip disruptions.