About Latitude 15
Possibly the best place to stay in Lusaka, Latitude 15 is a gorgeous boutique hotel featuring eclectic African art.
Wherever you look, some amazing piece of art will grab your attention, whether it’s Andy Warhol-esque paintings or carvings from Congo or a huge map of Africa made from bicycle cogs. There are copper chandeliers made from geysers, lampshades made from recycled tumbled glass and plenty more. Design aficionados will be in their element.
Many of these works of art were made at the Katundu workshop on Likoma Island, Malawi, which was established by one of the owners of Latitude, Suzie Lightfoot, to empower the local women.
The attention to artistic detail runs throughout the hotel, from the two restaurants, the bar and terrace to the contemporary bedrooms, whose neutral décor is transformed by unique design features.
With the added bonus of two pools, a gym and a spa, Latitude attracts well-heeled locals and travellers alike. In the evenings, when you’ll need to book a table for dinner, the place has a lively buzz, and once a week live music plays out by the pool; if local star Kuni is performing, be sure to stop by and enjoy his soulful singing.
Our view
Latitude 15 is very modern and stylish, balanced by comfortable furnishings and tasteful artwork, making it as comfortable as the larger international hotels but with much more character. With friendly staff, comfortable beds, good food and a sociable atmosphere, we consider Latitude 15 to be one of the best options for travellers overnighting in Lusaka.
Zambia expert
Traveller reviews of Latitude 15
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Named after its latitude co-ordinates, Latitude 15 is a small boutique hotel in a quiet residential suburb of Lusaka.
It was opened in 2014, a relatively short drive from the airport, and is popular with travellers who are staying in the Zambian capital for a single night before continuing their travels or heading home.
Latitude 15 is part of a small chain of hotels that include Latitude 13 in Lilongwe, Malawi. Although these hotels are similar in style, the focus at Latitude 15 is slightly more on conservative furnishings and African decoration than on the cutting-edge design of its siblings.
Positioned on the ground and first floors around the edge of Latitude 15 are 32 en-suite double or twin bedrooms. All follow the same design and style – they were all fully refurbished in 2017.
Luxurious and spacious, each air-conditioned room differs slightly in terms of size and décor, but all are tastefully decorated in cream and neutral colours, with several colourful paintings on the walls. Each has the same furnishings and amenities: comfortable king-size or twin beds, TV, desk and chair, wardrobe, sofa, minibar and espresso machine. The configuration of the en-suite bathrooms vary from room to room, but each has a flush toilet, basin, bath and a separate shower, some of which have a small step up into the cubicle. Some of the rooms overlooking the gardens have a small patio.
The gardens are extensive and, at the heart of Latitude 15, the main lounge area is very modern and stylish. Comfy seating in a range of leather, wicker and fabric sofas and armchairs, mainly in soft neutral tones or African prints, sit around rustic wooden coffee tables, some created from old Zanzibar-style doors. It’s a large area, with space for plenty of guests, but even though the area was bustling on our last visit, the spacing of the furniture and placing of internal wall columns gives an air of privacy to each individual seating area.
African artwork – both contemporary and more traditional – lend the hotel much more character than some of the larger international hotels, as do the myriad of sculptures, vases and lampshades throughout. Alluring coffee table books are scattered around, and a big central fireplace is sometimes lit for warmth and atmosphere during the colder winter nights.
Large glass doors to one side of the lounge open onto a reasonably sized patio and garden. Here you'll find several shaded areas with soft seats and sun loungers, and a very refreshing swimming pool.
To the other side is the restaurant, which seats up to 60 people on colourful canvas directors' chairs around wooden tables. Diners may eat inside, or outside in a small garden. Napkins matching the bright chair colours complement the rustic wooden tables and contrast well with the crisp white crockery.
We had a very enjoyable meal here on our last visit in October 2023, when the restaurant was buzzing with expats and business travellers, giving it a very social atmosphere. On previous visits, when the hotel was newly opened, we found the service slightly on the slow side, but our last visit the service was slick and friendly; we were impressed with the level of service from the staff.
Dinner can be popular with expats, especially on the weekends; so do reserve your table on arrival.
In the corner of the lounge area is a very well-stocked bar, a great place to grab a drink before dinner and chat to expats and Lusaka's more affluent residents, who often head to Latitude 15 for dinner and an evening drink. The hotel hosts live music nights on Wednesdays, whilst you’ll find Fridays are club lounge nights.
The hotel also has a spa, with a range of treatments available at extra cost.
Geographics
- Location
- Lusaka area, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- Latitude 15 is ideal for a one-night stopover in Lusaka, although it’s one of the city’s better options for a longer stay.
- Directions
- Latitude 15 is about 30–35 minutes’ drive from Lusaka Airport, depending on the traffic.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- The restaurant at Latitude 15 serves a mixture of world cuisines, but mostly European and Thai dishes. It is open for guests and local residents for:
Breakfast: 7.00–10.00am (though an earlier breakfast can be requested for those on a early morning flight)
Lunch: 12.00–3.00pm
Dinner: 6.00–9.30pm
Various dietary requirements can be catered for, and the menu has a good selection of vegetarian options.
Breakfast is a selection of cereals, yoghurt and fresh fruit, and a variety of hot dishes cooked to order including full cooked breakfasts, omelettes, eggs benedict and porridge - on our last visit in September 2017 we chose poached eggs, with spinach and halloumi on grilled soda bread, and it was delicious.
For dinner we enjoyed a delicious mezze platter, with hummus and olives to start, followed by baked aubergine and artichoke, parma ham, polenta and bacon jam - all exceptionally tasty. We didn’t have room for dessert, but on offer were a decadent looking chocolate tart, blueberry cheesecake or a mojito fruit salad.
The cost for dinner on our last visit was approximately US$10-15 for a starter, and US$18-22 for a main. For the quality of the food we found this to be very good value. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available within dining hours.
- Drinks included
- Bottled water, tea and coffee are provided in the room. Soft and alcoholic drinks are not included. In October 2023, a local beer cost around US$3, a soft drink US$2, and a bottle of house wine US$25.
Special interests
- Luxury
- Appointed with a heated pool, a gym and a spa, this boutique hotel offers quite a luxurious stay in a quiet part of Lusaka. Simple yet tasteful décor includes colourful African prints, which create vibrant details and remind you that you are indeed in Africa.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Latitude 15 welcomes children of all ages.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None.
- Special activities & services
- None.
- Equipment
- Latitude 15 can provide baby cots on request, and highchairs are available in the restaurant.
- Generally recommended for children
- We feel that Latitude 15 is fine for children of all ages.
- Notes
- Parents should be aware that there is an unfenced swimming pool with a deep end, and children should be supervised at all times around this area.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Power points, along with international adaptors, are found in the rooms.
- Communications
- There are phones in each room and at reception. There is strong cellphone reception throughout the hotel. Free, fast and reliable WiFi is available in all areas of the hotel.
- TV & radio
- There is a satellite television in each room showing DSTV channels.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- All rooms have plumbed flush toilets, plus a hot and cold shower and bath.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- First aid kits are located at reception, and several management staff are first aid trained. Appointments with a local doctor can be arranged, just ask at reception. For any medical emergencies, Lusaka has several private clinics of international standard.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- Security guards are on site 24 hours a day, linked to a rapid-response unit. Parking for guests is within a secure, gated area.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers in the central corridors and staff are trained in their use.
Activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- There is a full, complimentary laundry service available.
- Money
- There is a small electronic safe in each room.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and Mastercard are accepted with no surcharge. Amex is not currently accepted, but the hotel is working on changing this. Cash payments may be made in Zambian kwacha, US dollars, South African rand and other major world currencies.
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Latitude 15's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Latitude 15.
Other lodges in Lusaka area
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Pioneer Camp
Pioneer Camp, situated 14 kilometres from Lusaka's international airport is ideal for a night's stopover at the end of your trip.
Lilayi Lodge
Lilayi is a boutique lodge on the outskirts of Luaska, located on its own game farm in a lovely rural setting.
Ciela Resort
Ciela Resort and Spa is a smart, luxurious hotel close to Lusaka’s International Airport, with substantial grounds, a golf course and several dining options.
When to go to Lusaka area
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Latitude 15 in Lusaka area
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Lusaka area in January
Lusaka experiences its wettest period in January, with frequent heavy showers punctuating sunny intervals. The capital city sees temperatures soaring above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity. While the rains rejuvenate the urban greenery, they can cause localised flooding in some areas.
The city's parks and gardens burst with life, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the unpredictable weather. Despite the rain, Lusaka's streets remain bustling, though visitors should be prepared for sudden downpours. Many indoor attractions offer respite from the heat and rain, making it an ideal time to explore museums and galleries. Hotel rates in the city tend to be lower during this period, offering good value for those who don't mind the wet conditions.
- Lusaka experiences frequent downpours
- City parks lush and vibrant
- Fewer tourists, bargains available
- Outdoor events often rescheduled
- Roads may flood, affecting traffic
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Lusaka area in February
February continues the rainy trend in Lusaka, with impressive thunderstorms often occurring in the afternoons. The city's green spaces are at their lushest, with parks and gardens in full bloom. While the rain can disrupt outdoor plans, it also brings a refreshing coolness to the hot days.
The city's drainage systems are put to the test, occasionally leading to waterlogged roads. Indoor venues like shopping malls and cinemas see increased foot traffic during this month. Despite the wet conditions, Lusaka's markets remain vibrant, offering a glimpse into local life. Visitors should pack rain gear and be flexible with their itineraries. Hotel occupancy is generally low, resulting in slightly more competitive rates for accommodations throughout the city.
- Rainy season continues in Lusaka
- Urban gardens in full bloom
- Low season for city hotels
- Indoor attractions more popular
- Umbrella essential for city exploration
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Lusaka area in March
March marks the tail end of Lusaka's rainy season, with precipitation gradually decreasing as the month progresses. The city's vegetation is still lush and green, creating picturesque scenes in parks and residential areas. Temperatures remain warm, often exceeding 30°C, but humidity levels start to drop.
As the rains subside, outdoor activities become more feasible, and city tours gain popularity. The occasional shower may still occur, so it's wise to carry an umbrella. Lusaka's cultural calendar begins to fill up with events and exhibitions taking advantage of the improving weather. The city's outskirts, with their farms and nature reserves, are particularly appealing this month as the landscape is verdant and teeming with life.
- Lusaka still sees regular rainfall
- City's vegetation at its greenest
- Cultural events move indoors
- Local markets less crowded
- Ideal time for museum visits
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Lusaka area in April
April sees a significant shift in Lusaka's weather patterns, with rainfall becoming sporadic and less intense. The city starts to dry out, though its parks and gardens retain their greenery.
Daytime temperatures remain warm but become more comfortable, typically hovering in the mid-20s Celsius. This transitional month offers pleasant conditions for exploring Lusaka's outdoor attractions, such as the Lusaka National Museum's grounds or the Kalimba Reptile Park. The city's social scene picks up, with more outdoor events and markets taking place. As the tourist season approaches, some hotels may increase their rates, though deals can still be found.
- Rain lessens in Lusaka
- City starts to dry out
- Some outdoor venues reopen
- Hotel prices begin to rise
- Pleasant weather for city walks
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Lusaka area in May
May heralds the start of Lusaka's dry season, with clear skies and sunshine becoming the norm. The city experiences cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Lusaka's parks and green spaces begin to lose some of their lushness but remain pleasant for picnics and walks.
The comfortable weather encourages more outdoor dining, with restaurants and cafes setting up alfresco areas. Cultural events and festivals start to populate the city's calendar. The numbers of travellers begin to increase, and hotel prices may rise a little accordingly. This month offers a good balance of pleasant weather and pre-peak season value for visitors to Lusaka.
- Lusaka enters dry season
- Comfortable daytime temperatures
- Outdoor cafes become popular
- City parks ideal for picnics
- Increase in business travellers
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Lusaka area in June
June brings consistently dry and sunny days to Lusaka, with virtually no rainfall expected. The city experiences its coolest month, with nighttime temperatures occasionally dropping to around 10°C, while daytime highs remain comfortable in the low 20s Celsius.
This pleasant weather makes it an excellent time for city tours and outdoor explorations. Lusaka's markets are particularly enjoyable in the cool mornings. The dry conditions mean less greenery in the city's parks, but the clear skies offer great visibility for sightseeing. Hotels enter their peak season rates as more travellers arrive. The cool evenings are perfect for enjoying Lusaka's growing nightlife scene, with many venues offering outdoor seating.
- Cool, crisp air in Lusaka
- Perfect for outdoor activities
- City hosts more open-air events
- Busier streets and markets
- Nights can be chilly
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Lusaka area in July
July in Lusaka is characterised by cool, dry conditions with consistently clear skies. The city's vegetation continues to dry out, creating a stark contrast to the lush wet season. Daytime temperatures are mild, but nights can be quite chilly, sometimes dropping to single digits Celsius.
This weather is ideal for exploring Lusaka's outdoor attractions. The dry air and cool temperatures make it a popular month for sporting events and marathons in the city. Lusaka's hotels are often busy during this period, with many international visitors arriving. The cool weather also sees an increase in indoor cultural activities, with theatres and concert halls hosting events.
- Lusaka at its coolest
- Peak season for city tourism
- Higher hotel occupancy rates
- Outdoor concerts common
- Light jacket needed at night
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Lusaka area in August
August maintains the dry, cool weather pattern in Lusaka, with virtually no chance of rain. The city's landscape is at its driest, with parks and gardens showing signs of the long dry spell. Daytime temperatures start to climb, reaching the mid-20s Celsius, while nights remain cool. The clear skies and lack of humidity make this an excellent month for photography in Lusaka.
Outdoor cafes and restaurants are particularly popular during this time. The city hosts several festivals and events, taking advantage of the reliable weather. Tourist numbers are at their highest, and accommodations across Lusaka often charging higher rates. Despite the dry conditions, the city's tree-lined streets provide welcome shade for daytime explorations.
- Warm days, cool nights in Lusaka
- City bustling with activities
- Parks and gardens less green
- Dust may affect air quality
- Popular time for city festivals
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Lusaka area in September
September sees temperatures rising in Lusaka as the hot season approaches. The city remains dry with clear skies, but a haze may appear on the horizon due to dust and distant bush fires. Daytime temperatures often reach the low 30s Celsius, making early morning or late afternoon the best times for outdoor activities.
Lusaka's parks and green spaces are at their driest, with many trees shedding leaves. This month is popular for cultural events and outdoor concerts in the city. The warm evenings are perfect for enjoying Lusaka's rooftop bars and restaurants. Hotels are often fully booked, especially on weekends, as this is considered one of the best months to visit the city.
- Lusaka heats up
- City life moves outdoors
- Increased urban foot traffic
- Dry conditions prevail
- Evening socialising picks up
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Lusaka area in October
October brings intensifying heat to Lusaka, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C during the day. The city's landscape is parched, with most vegetation looking brown and dusty.
Despite the heat, October is a busy month in Lusaka, with many outdoor events and festivals taking place. The warm nights, often not dropping below 20°C, encourage a lively nightlife scene. Air conditioning becomes essential in hotels and restaurants. The high temperatures can make daytime sightseeing challenging, so early morning activities are recommended. Some light showers may occur towards the end of the month, bringing brief relief from the heat and hinting at the approaching rainy season.
- Hottest month in Lusaka
- City pools and fountains busy
- Outdoor dining in full swing
- Air can be hazy and dusty
- Last month of peak tourist season
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Lusaka area in November
November marks the transition from dry to wet season in Lusaka. The month often starts hot and dry but ends with increasing humidity and the likelihood of spectacular thunderstorms. Temperatures remain high, frequently surpassing 30°C.
The first rains bring rapid changes to the city's landscape, with dormant vegetation springing to life. Lusaka's parks and gardens begin to green up, offering a preview of the lush wet season to come. As the rains become more frequent, outdoor activities may be interrupted by sudden showers. Hotel rates decrease a little as the peak tourist season ends. The mix of hot days and occasional rains creates a steamy atmosphere in the city.
- Lusaka awaits first rains
- City parks prepare for wet season
- Humidity rises in urban areas
- Some outdoor events wind down
- Hotel rates start to decrease
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Lusaka area in December
December usually sees Lusaka fully embracing the rainy season, with frequent heavy downpours interspersed with sunny periods. The city's vegetation responds dramatically to the rains, with parks and gardens becoming lush and green. Temperatures remain warm, often exceeding 30°C, but the rain provides some relief from the heat.
The wet conditions can cause traffic congestion and occasional flooding in some areas of the city. Indoor attractions like museums and shopping malls become popular retreats during rainy spells. Despite the wet weather, Lusaka maintains a festive atmosphere with holiday decorations and events. Hotel rates offer slightly better value for visitors who don't mind the unpredictable weather.
- Rains return to Lusaka
- City adorned with holiday decorations
- Shoppers crowd urban markets
- Occasional thunderstorms
- Year-end festivities in full swing
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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