Best hotels and hostels in Lusaka

Set up by a bunch of local female friends, this funky and vibrant hostel offers a homely, social and relaxed atmosphere. There's plenty of artwork about, including graffiti-splashed walls, plus a swimming pool,...

Lusaka's best accommodation is this fashionable hotel with an architecturally designed building that resembles a chic contemporary gallery. Its rooms are plush with king-sized beds, standalone tubs, coffee...

In quiet residential street, this lovely and secure home offers a relaxed atmosphere for independent travellers. Rooms are clean, though can be a little cramped, and all share bathrooms. It has plenty of lawn...

One of the more established and respected backpackers in Lusaka, this place is deservedly popular with those on a budget. The centrepiece of activity is the patio area out front with a small pool and a tiki bar,...

If you've outgrown the whole backpacker scene, but still want something informal and homely – and social, if inclined – then Bongwe's your place. Run by UK expat Stacey, the staff here are exceptionally friendly...

An isolated 25-acre camp, surrounded by bird-rich woodland, Pioneer is the accommodation of choice for many expats living outside Lusaka, especially those with an early flight out of the country. Most of the...

While not quite in the same league as its opulent hotels in India, Taj Pamodzi is instead more your classy business hotel. But it's a solid choice nevertheless, featuring plush bedding and top-quality amenities,...

A good out-of-town option – especially for groups and families – around 7.5km east of the city centre, Kilimanjaro consists of several well-kept, low-slung buildings on a manicured lawn. The 11 rooms are spacious...

The grassy campsite here, shaded by big trees, is popular with overlanding groups. The security is good, while the swimming pool and bar (which sells burgers and breakfasts) are nice touches. There are braai...

Deservedly popular with in-the-know expats and a coterie of international business and government types, the Southern Sun is a no-brainer for those seeking an affordable low-key, comfortable city-centre option....

This upmarket and peaceful guesthouse is one of the best in Lusaka, with only a handful of snug en-suite rooms. It used to be a farm and today the sizeable grounds are devoted to the owners’ love of gardening,...

One of Lusaka's best choices for a business hotel is this reliable four-star chain. While don't expect too much in the way of views (a rarity in Lusaka), its 9th floor outdoor pool, bar and terrace make up for...

The sister lodge to the popular Lusaka Backpackers, this centrally located lodge offers some of cheapest rooms in town, along with camping facilities.

Only in Lusaka would a mall parking lot be considered an ideal location for a hotel. Part of a South African hotel group along with the Southern Sun, this smart boutique-style property is not only within shouting...

Although it looks like a school built in the '70s or earlier, this small motel-style complex has simple spick-and-span rooms. There’s a shady courtyard/car park with resident turkeys strutting their stuff out the...

Though it's more of a local lodge than a backpackers, Kalulu's rates are cheap. There's a small pool and restaurant with excellent local food. But the bar and pool area are all open to non-guests, which can give...