Kenneth Kaunda International Airport

Welcome

Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, Zambia combines the promise of modern amenities with a touch of nostalgia. The 2021 glass-and-marble Terminal 2 stands in stark contrast to the older, more traditional Terminal 1, creating a unique blend of African charm and modern convenience. As a hub for Proflight Zambia, this gateway offers a surprising mix of both comfortable travel connections and chaotic jargon. With key details in hand—like which terminal your flight uses—you can navigate the 1.3 million passengers passing through each year with ease.

At a glance

• Location: 27 km (17 mi) northeast of Lusaka city centre
• Passenger Volume: Approximately 1.3 million per year
• Runway: Single runway
• Airline Hub: Proflight Zambia
• Terminals: Two, noted as 1 and 2
• Key Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, South African Airways

Terminals & layout

Terminal 2 is your modern hub, handling all international flights with six gates serviced primarily by airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, and South African Airways. It opened in 2021, bringing a slicker, more polished experience to those entering Zambia. Meanwhile, domestic operations and some regional routes still operate out of the older Terminal 1, which lacks the contemporary sheen but offers a quieter, more laid-back environment. Knowing which terminal caters to your flight can save you 20-30 minutes of last-minute scrambles.

Getting to and from the city

Options might seem plentiful, but not all are equally efficient or economical. Taxis are the mainstay, but pre-booked airport transfers or hotel shuttles are advisable to avoid rogue fare hikes, and they typically range between $25-$35, a safer bet than the $40+ sometimes quoted curbside. Ride-hailing services are also available, provided you snag a local SIM card at arrival. Be aware, despite suggestions in outdated guides, there's no public bus service directly connecting the city.

Traveller essentials

Wander off to discover small necessities or luxuries: SIM cards, currency exchange, and pharmacies are all conveniently located near the arrivals exit of Terminal 2. Free Wi-Fi can usually be found within this newer terminal, but Terminal 1 often frustrates with patchy signals—prepare ahead to download any crucial apps or information before you move too far.

Dining & shopping highlights

Small but varied is the theme here. Terminal 2 offers a mix of eateries ranging from Cafe T2 to local favorites like Fast Food Counter and Local Grill. Fans of sweet treats can enjoy the Ice Cream Kiosk or Bakery Kiosk. Shopping enthusiasts can wander by the Duty Free Shop or stop at the Souvenir Shop for mementos. However, options thin out significantly late at night and in Terminal 1, where the Snack Bar or Souvenir Kiosk might be your best bet.

Lounges

For a bit more comfort, consider Lounge One in Terminal 1 at $30, or Lounge Two in Terminal 2 at $25, offering a peaceful refuge from the bustling airport environment. The VIP Lounge and Pearl Lounge in Terminal 2 await those seeking additional quiet or business services. Lounge access typically includes drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi, proving invaluable if your flight crosses with a busy passenger wave.

Insider tips

• Insider: If you plan on using ride-hailing apps in Lusaka, collect a local SIM at the kiosks near the Terminal 2 arrivals exit for seamless connectivity.
• Time: Save 20-30 minutes by confirming your airline's terminal in advance; international flights operate from Terminal 2, while domestic flights remain in Terminal 1.
• Avoid: Steer clear of airport taxis without prearrangement; pre-book your ride for a stress-free, fair-rate transfer.
• Quiet: Head toward the far end of Terminal 2’s international gates for peaceful seating and more readily available power outlets.
• Local: Experience a nostalgic touch in Terminal 1’s café—a contrast to the modern amenities at Terminal 2.
• Money: Always carry small bills in USD or kwacha for smoother negotiations on taxis or at market shops.
• Insider: Consider staying overnight at the Protea Hotel right on airport grounds if your schedule includes early departures or late arrivals.