Kitwe is the beating heart of Zambia's Copperbelt Province — a busy, welcoming city surrounded by lakes, game camps and open bush. Whether you're visiting for business, family or a weekend break, there's more to explore than most travellers expect. Here's what we recommend to guests at Zemics Park Lodge.
Top attractions in and around Kitwe
Nsobe Game Camp
A short drive from Kitwe, Nsobe offers guided game drives, quiet lakes for canoeing and bush walks — a relaxed way to see zebra, impala and abundant birdlife on the Copperbelt.
Tip · Best as a half-day trip; leave early to catch the animals at their most active.
Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage
One of the largest chimpanzee sanctuaries in the world, Chimfunshi rescues and rehabilitates chimps across huge forested enclosures near Chingola.
Tip · Book the tour ahead — visits are limited to protect the animals.
Mindolo Dam
A calm reservoir on the edge of Kitwe, popular for weekend picnics, fishing and sunset walks along the shore.
Tip · Bring your own snacks; kiosks around the dam are informal.
Copperbelt Museum, Ndola
About an hour from Kitwe, this museum tells the story of Zambia's copper mining heritage — from traditional crafts to the industry that shaped the region.
Tip · Pair it with lunch in Ndola for an easy day out.
Chembe Bird Sanctuary
A quiet wetland reserve rich with kingfishers, herons and fish eagles — perfect for birdwatchers and photographers.
Tip · Mornings are best; bring binoculars and mosquito repellent.
Kitwe Central Market & Chisokone
Get a feel for everyday Kitwe: colourful stalls of chitenge fabric, fresh produce, spices and local crafts you won't find in the malls.
Tip · Go with cash in small denominations and a friendly attitude — bargaining is part of the fun.
Where to eat
Kitwe's food scene is a mix of Zambian home cooking, Indian, Middle Eastern and Italian classics. A few favourites:
- Arabian Nights — well-loved for grilled meats and Middle Eastern classics.
- Michelangelo — a Kitwe institution for wood-fired pizza and pasta.
- Mukwa Lodge Restaurant — relaxed garden dining, good for lunch meetings.
- Local nshima spots around Parklands and Riverside for authentic Zambian fare.
Getting around
Kitwe is easy to navigate by taxi or ride-hail. For day trips to Chimfunshi, Nsobe or Ndola, we can help arrange a driver from the lodge. Simba Airport (Kitwe) handles regional flights; most international visitors arrive via Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Airport in Ndola, about an hour's drive away.
Where to stay in Kitwe
Zemics Park Lodge sits in the quiet Riverside neighbourhood on Jambo Drive — a leafy escape just minutes from the city centre. With 24-hour reception, two swimming pools, a conference hall and warm Zambian hospitality, it's a comfortable base for exploring the Copperbelt.