Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE COPPERBELT
Not on the radar for most visitors unless they happen to be mining consultants, the Copper-
belt Province is the industrial heartland of Zambia and the main population centre outside
of Lusaka. The region is home to the unique attraction of Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage,
the largest chimpanzee sanctuary in the world.
The world copper market slumped during the 1970s, so vast opencast mining companies
cut back production, creating high unemployment in the area. The cost of copper and cobalt
went through the roof in the early 21st century and this has once more seen the region
prosper as Zambia records impressive economic growth.
DRIVING IN THE COPPERBELT
The Copperbelt is one of the best regions in the country for driving, which is understandable given the importance
of the copper industry. The road from Lusaka to Ndola is in excellent condition, but the traffic can be slow around
Kapiri Mposhi. The dual carriageway between Ndola and Kitwe is perhaps the best in the country.
Kabwe
This is a dusty but well-laid-out service centre about 150km north of Lusaka. It makes a
good stop for lunch if you're driving between Lusaka and the Copperbelt.
Fig Tree Cafe $
( 0977 872966; Great North Road, 4km south of Kabwe; mains ZK10,000-35,000;
6am-6pm)
Providing a welcome break from the road, the Fig Tree Cafe, set in manicured
gardens, has breezy outdoor benches or comfy indoor seating. It does burgers, toasted sand-
wiches, tea, coffee and cold drinks. There's even a selection of homemade cakes and
shakes, plus swings and trampolines for kiddies. Fig Tree is well signposted.
CAFE
