Nice staff and location for this hostel, but it's pretty worn out and too many animals wondering around (dogs, goats, chickens) for us. Would probably not stay here again when there are better options in the area. The pool is more of a green pond and while the AC worked in our room, we had to threaten to leave to get a remote to control it. This place is probably fine if you need a cheap crash pad. That said, it was quiet at night and the owner (British) and his wife (Zambian) are very helpful. ADDENDUM: How to get from Lusaka to Lake Malawi and back by bus/car. I'm publishing our account of travel from Lusaka Zambia to Lake Malawi (in Malawi of course) because there are many details can can cause problems. 1. There are bus lines (large coaches) that depart the ”Inter-city bus terminal” in Lusaka at 5, 6 and 7 am each day and go to Chipata (eastern end of Zambia near Malawi border), 7.5 hours (they tell you 6 hours, but it takes 7.5 both ways!) 2. There are several companies, we took Jonda because we read it is reliable. 3. Buy your tickets the day before if you want a reserved seat. Otherwise, show up 45 min to 1 hour before departure time and buy tickets on the spot. 250 Zambian per person. No credit cards. 4. The bus station is a mess and you will be swarmed by touts and taxi drivers etc. A firm ”NO” to those trying to carry your luggage does the trick. 5. Avoid resellers (touts) of tickets and buy from the Jonda Bus Tours office only! It is called ”Jonda Office Lsk” on Google maps. 6. Our bus east to Chipata left on time, but our return bus from Chipata to Lusaka left 1 hour late. 7. Bring snacks and water. The bus takes a 10 min potty break at the half way point. Local food stalls are selling some stuff, but it is a bit unappealing. Bring your own toilet paper as well. Sun screen if you sit by the window is also good. It gets hot by noon and the windows are open. No AC or toilet on the bus. 8. The bus seats are split into 2 one one side of the aisle and 3 on the other. Grab a 2 seat combo if alone or a 3 seat combo if with a partner for greater comfort. Neither bus we took was more than 50% full. 9. When you arrive at the small bus station in Chipata, you will be swarmed again. We stayed overnight in Chipata to break up the trip. A taxi to local hotels (5-8 min away) should only be 30 Zambian during the day. We stayed at the Crossroads Lodge and it was fine. Restaurant/bar and AC in all rooms. About 450 Zambian (credit cards accepted). There are cheaper places if needed, but not many accept internet bookings! 10. In Chipata there are a few shops and cool open air dance club called ”Blue Gums” (after the Blue Gum trees on the property) that was good fun from 9pm on. They have food too. 11. The next morning take a taxi for 100 Zambian to the Malawi border (your hotel can arrange a driver they trust). It's only about 20 minutes. Note the drivers like to ask for half up front to buy fuel. They
4 Reviews