Lusaka in January
Not the best time
January's one of the worst months to visit Lusaka. You'll spend half your time dodging downpours and the other half sweating through the humidity. Skip it unless you have no choice.
Weather
Peak rainy season hits hard in January. Expect heavy downpours most afternoons and high humidity that makes 28°C feel much hotter. The air stays thick and sticky even at night.
28°C high18°C low18 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$45/day average
Events & Festivals
- •New Year's Day celebrations
January Tips
- •Pack serious rain gear - cheap umbrellas won't cut it
- •Book accommodations with good drainage, flooding is common
- •Malaria risk peaks now, bring repellent and long sleeves
All Months
May through September is your sweet spot – dry season means no mud, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures around 25°C during the day. July and August can get chilly at night, so pack a jacket. The rains from November to April turn the city green but also turn roads into rivers. October is brutally hot before the rains break. The dry season also means better wildlife viewing if you're planning day trips to nearby game parks. Local festivals happen year-round, but the agricultural show in July gives you a taste of rural Zambian culture right in the city. Avoid December and January if possible – it's hot, humid, and many businesses close for holidays.
Lusaka Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
4/10
Families
5/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
4/10
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