Things To Do
in Chifubu

Chifubu is a vibrant neighborhood on the outskirts of Ndola in Zambia's Copperbelt. It sits near the Chifubu Stream and offers a mix of markets, local eateries, and lively street life. The area serves as a gateway to Copperbelt's urban energy while still feeling close to nature with nearby parks and riverside spots.

Visitors will find friendly residents, affordable eateries, and opportunities to experience Zambian urban culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Chifubu
morning
:

Arrive at Ndola International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Chifubu. Take some time to settle in and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, sampling some local Zambian dishes.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market in Chifubu, where you can witness the vibrant culture and shop for handmade crafts and fresh produce. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their way of life. Don’t forget to try some street food delicacies for lunch.

evening
:

Relax at your accommodation or take a short walk around the neighborhood as the sun sets. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant, where authentic Zambian cuisine awaits. Wind down your first evening by mingling with fellow travelers or reflecting on the experiences of the day.

day 2
Lake Kashiba Exploration
morning
:

Set off early for a trip to Lake Kashiba, a beautiful natural gem located a short drive from Chifubu. Spend the morning hiking the trails around the lake, enjoying stunning views and spotting local wildlife. Take your time to soak in the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, savoring the fresh air and scenic surroundings. After lunch, take a boat ride on the lake, where you can fish or simply relax on the water. Capture photographs of the stunning landscape as afternoon light bathes the lake in warmth.

evening
:

Return to Chifubu and unwind at your accommodation. Treat yourself to a home-cooked meal at a local guesthouse, experiencing authentic flavors prepared by local cooks. Share stories with other guests about your adventures in Zambia.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥤Coffee or soft drink$1-3
🚎Public transport fare$0.50-1.50
🧭Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant$12-25
🏨One night at a mid-range hotel$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm, friendly locals and affordable prices
  • Easy access to markets, street food, and copperbelt culture
  • Limited large-scale nightlife compared with bigger cities
  • Some areas can be crowded and noisy in peak times
  • "Shani?" - Hello / How are you?
  • "Zikomo" - Thank you
  • "Muli shani?" - How are you?
  • "Ndine bwino" - I am well
  • "Nshima weka" - Please / Excuse me
  • "Ndakwata bwino" - I am hungry

Places to Visit in Chifubu

Visit one of these nice places.

Levy Mwanawasa Stadium exterior at golden hour

Wide-angle shots of the modern stadium against a pink sunset backdrop.

Ndola riverfront parks

Calm water, willow trees, and locals strolling; great for candid street photography.

Chifubu Forest Reserve trails

Shade-dappled paths with birds and monkeys; look for viewpoints along hillside trails.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chifubu

Chifubu and the Copperbelt feature hearty, harvest-friendly cuisine centered on staple nshima, vegetables, fish, and goat. Street stalls abound with roasted maize, fried dough, and fresh fruit, while urban eateries offer both local and pan-African flavors.

Chifubu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nshima with relish

Maize porridge served with vegetables, meat, or fish. A staple pairing found in almost every Zambian home and restaurant.

Must-Try!

Ifisashi

Vegetables simmered in peanut sauce, often served with nshima for a rich, comforting meal.

Kapenta with nshima

Dried small fish fried or grilled and served with nshima and a tomato-onion relish.

Goat stew

Slow-cooked goat meat with local spices, commonly found in town restaurants and family kitchens.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ndola Central Market

A bustling hub for fresh produce, grains, dried fish, and ready-to-eat street snacks.

Chifubu Market

A neighborhood market where you can sample fried dough, roasted corn, and seasonal fruit.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chifubu experiences a subtropical highland-influenced climate with a tropical feel. Dry season runs roughly May through October with cooler evenings, while the rainy season brings hot days and heavy afternoon showers from November to April.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake is common; address people politely and avoid high-pressure bargaining with strangers.

Dress

Smart-casual attire is appropriate in most urban spaces; modest dress is appreciated in markets and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty crime in crowded markets and on busy streets. Use licensed transport, keep belongings secure, and avoid isolated areas at night. Malaria is a risk; use repellent, nets, and prophylaxis where advised.

Tipping in Chifubu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and bars, typically around 5-10% for good service; small tips to taxi drivers are common.

Payment Methods

Cash in ZMW is widely accepted; some urban venues accept cards or mobile payments, especially hotels and larger shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.

Winter

Cool to mild days with cooler evenings; light layering is sufficient and it tends to be drier.

Nightlife Guide

Chifubu at Night

Chifubu's nightlife centers on neighborhood bars, grill houses, and casual lounges. Expect affordable local beers like Mosi and Castle, with occasional live music, particularly on weekends. Scenes are relaxed and social, with many venues closing early in comparison to larger cities.

Hiking in Chifubu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chifubu Forest Reserve trails

Shaded paths with wildlife, birds, and overlooks suitable for day hikes.

Ndola Hill Summit Trail

Short ascent offering city views and photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Chifubu by plane.

Simon Mwansa Kapwepha International Airport (Ndola)

Major regional airport serving Ndola and the Copperbelt; taxis and shuttles connect to Chifubu and Ndola city center.

Getting Around

Walkability

The central parts of Chifubu and Ndola are fairly walkable, with markets, shops, and parks within a short radius. Sidewalks exist in many streets but can be uneven; plan for traffic and heat in the daytime. For longer distances, taxis or ride-hailing apps are common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bemba speakers

Majority language group in the Copperbelt region; a large part of the local culture and daily life.

Minority groups

Includes Ngoni, Lunda, Luvale and other communities contributing to a diverse urban tapestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local leagues and casual street games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested during peak hours in Ndola and market areas; plan extra travel time. Taxis and minibuses are common, while ride-hailing options are increasingly available in urban zones.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chifubu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for vegetable relishes, peanuts or mushroom-based dishes; many restaurants can adapt nshima bowls with veggie sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in urban clinics and hospitals in Ndola and nearby towns; expect better services at larger facilities with trained staff. Carry essential medications, and check your travel insurance coverage for emergency care.

Discover Zambia

Read more in our Zambia 2025 Travel Guide.

Zambia Travel Guide