Arriving at Lusaka airport.

Updated October 2026. Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) is Zambia's main gateway, north-east of central Lusaka off the Great East Road. Here is what to expect from the aircraft door to your hotel.

1. Immigration

Have your passport, return or onward ticket and accommodation address ready. Visa rules depend on your nationality and change from time to time, so check them with the Zambia Department of Immigration before you fly. Queues are longest when several international flights land together.

2. Baggage and customs

Collect your bags and go through customs into the public arrivals area. If you have booked a transfer, this is where your driver waits with your name on a board.

3. Phone and money

• SIM cards: local SIMs are widely available; your passport is needed to register one.
• Cash: the Zambian kwacha (ZMW) is the currency. Cards work in most hotels and malls, but carry some kwacha for small purchases.

4. Getting into the city

The drive to central Lusaka usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, longer at rush hour. Your options are a pre-booked transfer, a taxi agreed at the kerb, or a ride-hailing app if your phone is already connected. A pre-booked transfer means the price is fixed before you land and someone is waiting, which matters most on a late or first arrival.

5. Leaving Lusaka

For international departures, allow about three hours from central Lusaka, more on Friday evenings. Check in early if you are travelling with a lot of luggage.

Booking a transfer with us: send your flight number and destination on WhatsApp or by email. A Standard sedan from KKIA to central Lusaka starts from K1,150. See Lusaka airport transfers.