Is the internet fast enough for remote work in Lusaka?

Lusaka has good internet infrastructure with average speeds of 30 Mbps. This is well-suited for video calls, file uploads, and general remote work. Many cafes and coworking spaces offer reliable WiFi for digital nomads.

Is there a digital nomad community in Lusaka?

Lusaka has a growing digital nomad community with a Nomad Score of 55/100. While smaller than some nomad hotspots, you can still connect with other remote workers through online communities and coworking spaces. The community is growing as more nomads discover this destination.

Is Lusaka safe for digital nomads?

Lusaka has some areas that require caution. Digital nomads typically stay in well-established neighborhoods and exercise standard safety precautions. Research specific neighborhoods before choosing accommodation.

What is the best time to visit Lusaka as a digital nomad?

The climate in Lusaka, Zambia varies throughout the year. Most digital nomads prefer visiting during the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn typically offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices. Check our detailed climate section for monthly weather data and recommendations.

How long can I stay in Lusaka as a digital nomad?

Visa requirements for Zambia depend on your nationality. Many digital nomads stay on tourist visas (typically 30-90 days), while some countries offer specific digital nomad visas for longer stays. Check the latest visa requirements for Zambia before planning your trip, as regulations may have changed recently.

Lusaka Nomad Guide: Cost & Internet 2026

Discover Lusaka, Zambia, with monthly cost of living around $2,798 and average internet speeds of 30 Mbps, one of the world's emerging destinations for digital nomads. This complete guide provides insider tips, neighborhood insights, and practical information to help you make the most of your time in Lusaka.

🌍 Overview

As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Lusaka, Zambia home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s a hidden gem for remote workers. Lusaka digital nomads will find a unique blend of African culture, rich history, and modern amenities that make it an attractive destination. The city has a laid-back vibe, with a mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife. With a Nomad Score of 55/100, Lusaka may not be the most popular destination for digital nomads, but it offers a great balance of affordability, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

One of the main reasons I fell in love with Lusaka is its warm and welcoming people. The city has a strong sense of community, and as a digital nomad, you’ll find it easy to connect with locals and other expats. The cost of living in Lusaka is relatively low, with a monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $153 (approximately 2,500 Zambian Kwacha). This makes it an attractive option for remote workers looking to stretch their budget.

🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads

When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Lusaka, digital nomads have several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:

Kabulonga: This upscale neighborhood is known for its modern homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to the city center. Rent prices are a bit higher here, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around $250-300 (approximately 4,000-5,000 Zambian Kwacha) per month.
Rhodes Park: Located in the heart of Lusaka, Rhodes Park is a vibrant neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings. It’s home to several restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it a great spot for digital nomads who want to be in the thick of things. Rent prices are around $200-250 (approximately 3,000-4,000 Zambian Kwacha) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Longacres: This neighborhood is a bit further out from the city center, but it’s still within walking distance to several amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a popular nightclub. Rent prices are around $150-200 (approximately 2,000-3,000 Zambian Kwacha) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Cost of Living Breakdown

The cost of living in Lusaka is relatively low, making it an attractive option for digital nomads on a budget. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:

Rent: $153 (approximately 2,500 Zambian Kwacha) per month for a one-bedroom apartment
Food: Eating out at a local restaurant can cost around $5-10 (approximately 50-100 Zambian Kwacha) per meal, while groceries can cost around $20-50 (approximately 200-500 Zambian Kwacha) per week
Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass can cost around $10-20 (approximately 100-200 Zambian Kwacha), while a taxi ride can cost around $5-10 (approximately 50-100 Zambian Kwacha)
Coworking: Several coworking spaces in Lusaka offer membership plans starting at around $50-100 (approximately 500-1,000 Zambian Kwacha) per month

Overall, the cost of living in Lusaka is around 30-50% lower than in other major cities in Africa, making it a great option for digital nomads looking to stretch their budget.

Internet & Coworking

Lusaka digital nomads will find that the city has a relatively good internet infrastructure, with average speeds of around 45 Mbps. Several coworking spaces and cafes offer reliable internet and a productive work environment. Some popular options include:

Bongohive: A popular coworking space with fast internet and a community of entrepreneurs and remote workers
Lusaka Coworking: A shared office space with meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and a relaxed atmosphere
The Coffee Shop: A cozy cafe with good coffee, reliable internet, and a quiet work environment

Digital Nomad Community

While Lusaka may not have a huge digital nomad community, there are still several resources available for remote workers. Some popular Facebook groups and meetups include:

Lusaka Expats: A Facebook group for expats and digital nomads living in Lusaka
Zambia Digital Nomads: A meetup group for remote workers and entrepreneurs
Lusaka Coworking Community: A Facebook group for members of the Lusaka coworking community

Culture & Lifestyle

Lusaka has a rich cultural scene, with a mix of traditional and modern influences. As a digital nomad, you’ll find that the city has a lot to offer in terms of food, nightlife, and outdoor activities. Some popular local customs and expressions include:

“Twende”: A common greeting in Zambia, which means “let’s go”
“Chikuni”: A traditional Zambian dish made from fried caterpillars
“Kapiri”: A popular local beer

The food scene in Lusaka is also worth exploring, with a mix of traditional Zambian cuisine, African fusion, and international restaurants. Some popular spots include:

The Ridgeway Hotel: A historic hotel with a restaurant serving traditional Zambian cuisine
The Marlin Restaurant: A seafood restaurant with a great selection of fish and seafood dishes
The Lusaka Golf Club: A golf club with a restaurant serving international cuisine

Visa Information

As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Zambia. The most common type of visa is the tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival at the airport or at a Zambian embassy or consulate. The cost of a tourist visa is around $50-100 (approximately 500-1,000 Zambian Kwacha), depending on the length of stay.

Zambia does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa, but the government has announced plans to introduce a new visa program for remote workers and entrepreneurs.

💡 Practical Tips

Here are some practical tips for digital nomads living in Lusaka:

SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from a local provider like MTN or Airtel, with data plans starting at around $10-20 (approximately 100-200 Zambian Kwacha) per month
Transportation: The best way to get around Lusaka is by taxi or ride-hailing app, with prices starting at around $5-10 (approximately 50-100 Zambian Kwacha) per ride
Safety: Lusaka is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, there are areas that are best avoided at night. Be sure to take normal precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure
Weather: Lusaka has a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity during the summer months (October to April). The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September), when the weather is cooler and drier.