From a tourist’s perspective, Chipata—Zambia’s fifth-largest city—is a vibrant, mountainous transit hub known for its unique bicycle culture, lush natural surroundings, and rich Ngoni heritage. For us, however, it was primarily the gateway to the world-renowned South Luangwa National Park, located about 110 km to the northwest. After crossing from Malawi, we also used Chipata as our base camp to restock supplies at its modern supermarkets and shopping malls (Shoprite is better than Choppies).
While in town, we grabbed a pizza at Debonairs, exchanged money (17,90 ZMW/USD) at the bureau de change next to Zanaco Bank (offering the same exchange rate but much faster service; banks close at 14:00), and arranged our COMESA insurance for the truck. In the evening, we enjoyed a beer at VNT Motel before finishing the night at the lively East Point Night Club, Bluge Gums Night Club and bar in Uncle Chipeta’s hotel (Mosi Premium Lager – 0,33l / 30 ZMW).
Parking location – Chipata: 13.6350292S 32.6477016E (🚻,🅿️30 ZMW)