Things To Do
in Ndola

Ndola is the third-largest city in Zambia, located in the Copperbelt Province. Known for its rich mining history, it serves as a vital economic hub for the region. The city is surrounded by lush landscapes and offers a blend of urban and rural experiences.

Ndola is characterized by its friendly locals and vibrant community life, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ndola City Market, where you can browse local crafts and fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ndola Golf Club for a leisurely lunch and enjoy a round of golf or simply admire the beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

Finish your day at the Mukuba Mall, where you can shop for local souvenirs and enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Mindolo Ecological Park for a morning walk and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Explore the Copperbelt Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region.

evening
:

Experience local culture with a traditional Zambian dinner at a local eatery and enjoy some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🚖Taxi ride within the city$5
Coffee at a cafe$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable living costs compared to many Western countries.
  • Diverse outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Healthcare access can be basic in rural areas.
  • Language barriers may exist, especially in rural communities.
  • "Mulibwanji" - How are you?
  • "Natotela" - Thank you.
  • "Nshikamo" - Excuse me.
  • "Lelo ni Lelo" - Today is today.
  • "Tuli bwanji" - How are we?

Places to Visit in Ndola

Visit one of these nice places.

Mindolo Ecological Park

A serene park offering stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature photography.

Ndola Golf Club

An expansive golf course with beautiful vistas and well-maintained greens.

Copperbelt Museum

The museum's architecture and exhibits provide great backdrops for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ndola

Ndola offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases traditional Zambian flavors and ingredients.

Ndola Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nshima

A staple dish made from ground maize, served with various relishes.

Must-Try!

Ifisashi

A dish made from vegetables, often mixed with ground peanuts or beans.

Chikanda

Also known as African polony, made from ground wild orchids and peanuts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ndola City Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Street Vendors

Look for vendors selling items like Samosas and Chikanda on the streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ndola experiences a tropical climate characterized by a rainy season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. Temperatures can range from mild to hot, with cooler evenings in winter. The average yearly temperature is around 22°C (72°F), with peaks reaching 30°C (86°F) during the dry months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet others with a smile and a handshake; this is a sign of respect.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders in conversations and interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ndola is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious when walking at night. Use reputable transportation services and stay informed about local safety advisories.

Tipping in Ndola

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, with 10-15% being standard in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rainfall, which can lead to muddy conditions; it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

Dry Season (April - October)

This is the best time to visit; weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter (June - August)

Temperatures can drop, especially at night, so pack warm clothing.

Spring (September - October)

Temperatures begin to rise, and the landscape is lush and green, making for great photography.

Nightlife Guide

Ndola at Night

Ndola's nightlife is vibrant, with numerous bars and clubs offering live music and dancing. The city has a variety of venues, from laid-back pubs to lively nightclubs. Local DJs play popular Zambian music, and you can often find events celebrating traditional dances.

Hiking in Ndola

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kasanka National Park

Located a bit further from Ndola, this park offers various trails and is home to diverse wildlife.

Chingola Hills

A short drive from Ndola, these hills provide scenic hiking opportunities with breathtaking views.

Airports

How to reach Ndola by plane.

Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport

Located about 7 km from Ndola, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ndola has a moderate level of walkability, particularly in the city center where attractions and amenities are close together. However, sidewalks may not always be well-maintained, and traffic can be busy. It's generally safer to walk during the daytime and use taxis or public transport at night.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bemba

One of the largest ethnic groups in Zambia, primarily residing in the Copperbelt region.

Ngoni

A significant ethnic community known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Ndola, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Rugby

Rugby is also gaining popularity, with clubs and schools promoting the sport actively.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ndola can be congested during peak hours, particularly on main roads. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but the availability may vary. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ndola.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be prepared vegetarian; just ask the cook.

Allergies

Always inform restaurant staff about any allergies, as local cuisine may include peanuts and other allergens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Ndola include public hospitals and private clinics. While urban areas have better access to healthcare, rural areas may face challenges. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and access to emergency services.

Discover Zambia

Read more in our Zambia 2025 Travel Guide.

Zambia Travel Guide