Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia, a green plateau city of about three million people at 1,280 m. It is a practical base for markets, wildlife nurseries and onward travel to national parks.
Lusaka is generally welcoming but petty theft, bag snatching and car break-ins occur; violent crime has risen in recent reports.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
The US State Department rates Zambia Level 1; the OSAC report notes rising violent crime in Lusaka.
Last updated: 2026-07-31
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid walking after dark.
Use ride-hailing apps or hotel taxis at night.
Keep phones out of sight near roads.
Lock car doors in traffic.
Carry a photocopy of the passport and keep the original in the hotel safe; police may ask for ID at roadblocks.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Fake police fines
Persons posing as officers demand cash.
How to avoid: Ask for ID and pay only at a station.
Currency swaps
Street changers short-change tourists.
How to avoid: Use bank ATMs and licensed bureaux.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Routine plus hepatitis A, typhoid; yellow fever certificate if arriving from an endemic country.
- Water
- Drink bottled or filtered water.
- Food
- Eat hot food; peel fruit.
- Facilities
- Private hospitals include Lusaka Trust Hospital and Levy Mwanawasa; confirm insurance.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Solo travellers should keep to well-lit areas and book hotel transfers.
Female travellers
Dress modestly and use ride-hailing at night.
Families
Families should use car seats from rental firms and avoid crowded markets with small children.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relations are criminalised; discretion is advised.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 991
- Medical
- 992
- Fire
- 993
- Main Hospital
- University Teaching Hospital, Nationalist Road
- Embassy Us
- +260 211 357 000
- Embassy Uk
- +260 211 423 200