Lusaka Backpackers

This accommodation is horrible , unclean and unsafe for solo female travellers. - WiFi didn't work so was forced to walk over an hour to the nearest shopping centre to get a SIM card - Airport transfer wasn't arranged. They then tried to manipulate me and shame me into paying for the transfer even though the driver wasn't there to pick me up. - Nobody at reception to help guests - only someone there when people are checking out - Staff don't care about guest safety - etc no one is in the car park gate sometimes and they yelled at me when my airport transfer that they arranged want there instead if checking if I was okay. - They have sketchy taxi drivers who they allow to to stay in the pool area who are trying to extorts guests . If you stay here only use Yango ( Lusaka's version of Uber) as they are charging upto 10x more than the local rate - Air con didn't work - Very weak water pressure in bathroom - No soap or toilet paper in toilets half the time - Nobody at reception - When checking in they didn't know what to charge me and expected me to tell them what the bill was which is ridiculous - Excursions are advertised but it's alot cheaper to do them independently and nobody is at reception to book them anyway. They're making commission - Their 5 day road trip can be done in one long day. - Breakfast was disgusting, never again - Outside areas are disgusting and dirty - Tour guide commented on how dirty and bad it was too and other local people shook their head when I told them I was staying there as the place is notorious. Worst hostel I've stayed in the 6 years I've been travelling. I definitely would not recommend staying in this hostel to anyone. It's gross. You can get the same cost accommodation and much better service and amenities and be much more comfortable elsewhere. Zambia is a great place as this accommodation and staff is by no means a good reflection of Zambian hospitality and guest experience as whole. If you want a good experience avoid staying here at all costs.

Great value, expected much less for the price.

I liked parts of my stay like the friendly staff and chilled bar/restaurant area. However, I had many problems too; I got a stomach bug after eating from their menu, I could not sleep any night (not helped by snorer), I was moved room twice, I woke up with sore throat one morning and on my last night I had insects in my bed (I think bed bugs!). There is potential here but it just didn't work, cleanliness was my main concern.