Explore Lusaka

While many travelers view Lusaka as a mere stopover on the way to a safari, those who linger discover a city brimming with energy, culture, and surprising natural beauty. Lusaka is the beating heart of the country, where urban sophistication meets the wild spirit of Zambia.

Whether you are staying with us at Lilayi Lodge for a peaceful retreat or a family adventure, we have curated the best of the city to help you make the most of your visit.

GRI Elephant Orphanage Project (Wildlife Discovery Centre)

• Distance: 32 km (19.8 miles)
• Travel Time: 1hr

Now part of the Wildlife Discovery Centre in Lusaka National Park, this facility rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves. Visitors can observe daily midday feedings and mud baths from a specialized viewing deck.

Lusaka National Park

• Distance: 32 km (19.8 miles)
• Travel Time: 1hr

This park hosts white rhinos, giraffes, and zebras in a compact wilderness. It is the perfect destination for a quick, accessible safari experience or a quiet afternoon picnic.

Lusaka National Museum

• Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
• Travel Time: 35 minutes

Located in the city center, this museum provides a deep dive into Zambia’s journey from prehistoric times to independence. The upper gallery often hosts contemporary Zambian art.

37D Gallery

• Distance: 21.2 km (13 miles)
• Travel Time: 44 minutes

A contemporary boutique gallery showcasing high-end Zambian art in a stunning architectural space, featuring a rotating selection of works from established and emerging artists.

Lechwe Trust Art Gallery

• Distance: 24 km (15 miles)
• Travel Time: 49 minutes

A premier venue in the Rhodes Park area, this gallery houses one of Zambia’s most significant private art collections, and is dedicated to preserving the nation’s visual arts history.

Sugarbush Showroom

• Distance: 25.4 km (16 miles)
• Travel Time: 47 minutes

Home to the famous Jackal & Hide brand, this showroom features world-class, handcrafted Zambian leather bags and accessories—ideal for finding high-quality local luxury goods.

Henry Tayali Visual Arts Centre

• Distance: 26 km (16 miles)
• Travel Time: 53 minutes

Located within the Showgrounds, this center is the focal point for the Zambia National Visual Arts Council, offering an authentic look at modern paintings and sculptures.

Cosmopolitan Mall

• Distance: 17.2 km (10.6 miles)
• Travel Time: 25–45 minutes

A modern hub located south of the city center. It offers a variety of international retail brands, grocery stores, and several dining options.

Manda Hill Shopping Centre

• Distance: 25.6 km (16 miles)
• Travel Time: 53 minutes

Lusaka’s original premier shopping destination, Manda Hill features a wide array of restaurants, international fashion labels, tech shops, and essential services like banks and pharmacies.

Eastpark Mall

• Distance: 27.5 km (17 miles)
• Travel Time: 58 minutes

A bustling lifestyle hub known for its diverse restaurant scene, premium grocery stores and local and international retail brands. It is a popular spot for both shopping and evening entertainment.

Agora Village

• Distance: 24.1 km (15 miles)
• Travel Time: 59 minutes

A trendy, open-air lifestyle center that blends modern retail with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for finding boutique local brands and artisanal coffee.

Kalimba Reptile Park

• Distance: 39 km (20 miles)
• Travel Time: 60 minutes

A favorite for families, Kalimba offers a safe look at giant Nile crocodiles and tortoises, alongside a dedicated play area, “crazy golf,” and fishing ponds.

Sugarbush Cafe

• Distance: 25.4 km (16 miles)
• Travel Time: 47 minutes

With expansive green lawns for children to run on and a farm-to-table menu, this cafe provides a relaxing environment for families to enjoy a long lunch.

Market Square

• Distance: 28.4 km (18 miles)
• Travel Time: 56 minutes

An open market-style dining destination with a wide variety of food stalls, a playground and outdoor seating area.

Spur Restaurant (Manda Hill & Eastpark Mall)

• Distance: 23 km (14 miles)
• Travel Time: 56 minutes

A classic family-friendly dining choice, this Spur location features a supervised “Play Canyon” area, allowing parents to dine while children stay entertained. Spur has an additional location at EastPark Mall.

Chilanga Golf Club

• Distance: 13.6 km (8.5 miles)
• Travel Time: 24 minutes

The closest course to the lodge, offering a charming 9-hole layout that is perfect for a quick round in a serene, green setting.

Chainama Hills Golf Club

• Distance: 27 km (16.7 miles)
• Travel Time: 56 minutes

Known for its unique hilly terrain and challenging layout, this course offers scenic views and a test of skill for experienced golfers.

Bonanza Golf Course

• Distance: 50 km (31 miles)
• Travel Time: 90 minutes

A world-class Peter Matkovich-designed course located near the airport, offering a “bush-golf” experience with immaculate greens and a modern clubhouse.