Is Lusaka Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, has a certain degree of safety during the day, with a vibrant culture and friendly locals. However, walking alone at night may not be advisable. Incidences of opportunistic crime tend to rise after dark, making the city somewhat unsafe for solo female travelers. Always arrange for trusted transportation ahead of time if you'll be out late and keep vigilant for your personal safety.

Public transportation in Lusaka, especially the buses and shared taxis, is generally functional and frequently used by locals. However, these transports can get overcrowded and may not strictly adhere to the scheduled timings. Furthermore, road safety standards are arguably lesser than one might experience in more developed nations. It's recommended to be cautious with personal belongings when using public transportation due to potential pick-pocketing.

In Lusaka, females traveling solo can encounter occasional street harassment ranging from catcalling to persistent vendors. This, however, is likely situational and areas with a heavy tourist presence may experience this more. But local people, in general, are friendly and helpful. Experiences may vary depending on locations within the city. Disengaging from unwanted attention firmly but politely usually works.

While it's possible to have a secure visit, petty crimes like bag snatching, pickpocketing, and theft, do occur fairly frequently, mainly targeting unsuspecting tourists in crowded areas such as markets, bus stations, and even while walking in the street. Theft from parked cars in the city is also not uncommon. So, it would be best to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure at all times.

It is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Lusaka. Although the water supply is treated, it may not meet international water safety standards and can still contain microorganisms that might make you sick. To avoid any health risks, stick to bottled water, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Also consider using tap water only for showering and washing hands, while using bottled or boiled water for brushing your teeth.

The United States government advises exercising normal precautions in Zambia. Check the full travel advisory.

The Canadian Government advises taking normal security precautions in Zambia. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian Government advises exercising normal safety precautions in Zambia. Check the full travel advisory.