Zambia
Profiled in Lusaka · Southern Africa
Lusaka is a flat, sun-warmed highland capital where jacaranda-lined suburbs, roaring markets and easy safari getaways all sit under a huge open sky.
Cost of living
What a month costs
Life is affordable by expat standards, but power cuts push many families to buy generators or solar, and the leafy suburbs cost well above the city average.
The scores
How it rates for a moving family
See and do
Top 10 in Lusaka
- Lusaka National MuseumTwo floors of Zambian history, archaeology and contemporary art near the city centre.
- Kabwata Cultural VillageCraft stalls and carvers selling curios, textiles and drums from across the region.
- Lilayi Elephant NurseryWatch rescued orphan elephants feed at the sanctuary south of town.
- Munda Wanga Environmental ParkBotanical gardens and a wildlife sanctuary at Chilanga, just beyond the suburbs.
- Freedom StatueThe bronze figure breaking his chains marks Zambia's fight for independence.
- Cathedral of the Holy CrossThe calm Anglican cathedral is a quiet landmark in the government district.
- Henry Tayali Visual Arts CentreThe leading contemporary gallery, tucked inside the Lusaka Showgrounds.
- Arcades Sunday MarketA weekly open-air craft and food market that draws expats and locals alike.
- Lusaka City MarketA vast, chaotic trading hub for a real taste of everyday Lusaka.
Where to go
Weekend escapes
- Livingstone and Victoria FallsA short flight or long drive southwest to one of the great waterfalls on earth.
- Lake Kariba at SiavongaTwo to three hours south for houseboats, fishing and lazy sunsets over the water.
- Lower Zambezi National ParkBig game, canoe safaris and riverside lodges downstream on the Zambezi.
- Kafue National ParkZambia's largest park lies west of the city, with plains, rivers and few crowds.
- Chaminuka Nature ReserveUnder an hour out for game drives, a lake and an easy family day trip.
Coffee
Best cafes
- Mint CafeA leafy Kabulonga favourite for coffee, cake and long lunches.
- Sugarbush CafeGarden setting, good breakfasts and homemade bakes.
- PorticoPopular Kabulonga cafe and bakery with a loyal following.
Restaurants
Where to eat
- Marlin RestaurantA Lusaka institution known for steaks, game meat and old-school service.
- Rhapsody'sLively bar and grill at Arcades, dependable for a night out.
- Latitude 15 DegreesRefined dining at the stylish boutique hotel in Kabulonga.
- Ocean BasketReliable seafood chain with a branch at East Park Mall.
Morning
Best breakfast
- Mint CafeEasygoing brunches under the trees in Kabulonga.
- Sugarbush CafeEggs, fresh bread and strong coffee in a garden.
- PorticoPastries and a proper flat white to start the day.
- Latitude 15 DegreesA calm, polished breakfast if you fancy something smarter.
Residency
Zambia offers employment and investor permits, plus a self-employment route, with permanent residence possible after long-term stay. Approvals hinge on a local job, a registered business or a qualifying investment, so budget for time and paperwork.
Tax
Personal income tax is progressive and tops out around 37 percent, so Zambia is no tax haven. Residents are taxed mainly on Zambia-source income, and foreign pensions are often lightly taxed.
Curious what you would actually pay? See the Zambia tax profile: income, corporate, VAT and exit rules →
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