Taxi & Ride-Hailing Prices in Zambia
Yango ยท Ulendo ยท Minibus ยท Car Hire ยท Updated March 2026
Compare taxi fares, ride-hailing prices, minibus costs, and car hire rates across Zambia.
Transport Prices
Yango (Ride-Hailing)
Per trip within Lusaka, app-based
ZMK 25 โ 80
Ulendo (Ride-Hailing)
Zambian ride-hailing app
ZMK 30 โ 90
Traditional Taxi (Short)
Within town, negotiated fare
ZMK 30 โ 50
Traditional Taxi (Cross-town)
Across Lusaka, airport trips
ZMK 80 โ 200
Airport Transfer (Lusaka)
Kenneth Kaunda Int'l Airport
ZMK 150 โ 350
Minibus (Local Route)
Fixed routes, shared transport
ZMK 7 โ 15
Long-Distance Bus
Lusaka-Kitwe, Lusaka-Livingstone
ZMK 80 โ 350
Boda-Boda (Motorcycle)
Short distances, negotiated
ZMK 10 โ 30
Car Hire (Per Day)
Self-drive, with/without driver
ZMK 500 โ 1,500
Monthly Fuel (City Driving)
~1,500 km/month average
ZMK 1,200 โ 2,000
Route Price Comparison
| Route | Yango |
|---|---|
| Lusaka CBD โ Kabulonga | ZMK 30 โ 45 |
| Lusaka โ Airport (KKIA) | ZMK 80 โ 120 |
| Lusaka CBD โ Chilenje | ZMK 25 โ 40 |
| Lusaka โ Kafue | ZMK 120 โ 180 |
Getting Around Zambia โ Transport Guide
Zambia's urban transport has transformed with ride-hailing apps. Yango (by Yandex) launched in 2022 and dominates Lusaka and Kitwe. Ulendo, a Zambian-owned app, is growing as a local alternative. Traditional taxis remain popular but rarely use meters โ always negotiate fares before your trip.
Budget Transport: Minibuses
Minibuses are Zambia's most affordable transport at ZMK 7-15 per trip on fixed routes. Key hubs include Inter-City Bus Terminus, Kulima Tower, and City Market in Lusaka. Long-distance buses to Kitwe (ZMK 150-250) and Livingstone (ZMK 200-350) depart from Inter-City Bus Terminus.
Tips for Visitors
Download Yango before arriving โ it accepts cash. For airport transfers, use Yango (50% cheaper than taxi touts). Carry small denominations for minibuses. Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are fast but helmets are rare โ use only for short distances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ride-hailing apps work in Zambia?
Yango (by Yandex) is the most popular ride-hailing app in Zambia, available in Lusaka and Kitwe. Ulendo is a Zambian-owned alternative. Both accept cash and mobile money. Uber is not currently available in Zambia.
How much is a taxi from Lusaka airport?
A taxi from KKIA to Lusaka CBD costs ZMK 200-350 traditional taxi, or ZMK 80-120 via Yango. Always agree on fare before departing with traditional taxis.
Are minibuses safe in Zambia?
Minibuses are the most affordable option (ZMK 7-15) used by millions daily on fixed routes. Safety varies โ look for well-maintained vehicles. Peak hours can be very crowded.
How much does car hire cost in Zambia?
Car hire ranges from ZMK 500-800/day for a sedan to ZMK 1,000-1,500/day for a 4x4. Adding a driver costs ZMK 200-350/day. Major companies include Avis, Europcar, and Voyagers.