There are many interesting places to explore once you arrive on the Copperbelt. While the region is widely known for its mineral wealth, it also holds a quieter appeal of natural beauty, rich history, and spaces that feel removed from the rush of everyday life. There is a calm, almost understated charm to the Copperbelt, shaped by its open landscapes and lush greenery.
If you are looking to experience a different side of the region, these hidden gems offer a good place to start.
Mindolo Dam
With lush greenery in mind, our first stop is Mindolo Dam in Kitwe, located just a short drive from the city centre. Characterised by its still blue waters, wide skies, and surrounding greenery, the dam offers a peaceful setting that feels far removed from the busier parts of town.
It is an ideal spot for picnics, casual walks, and slow afternoons spent cloud watching or birdwatching. The best time to visit is late afternoon, when the heat softens, and the light begins to shift. At sunset, the dam becomes even more striking, with golden hues reflecting across the water, making it a favourite for photographers.
If you plan to visit, carry light snacks, water, and something comfortable to sit on. The beauty of Mindolo Dam lies in its simplicity; it is a place to pause, breathe, and take things in at your own pace.
Lake Kashiba
Located near Mpongwe, Lake Kashiba is one of the Copperbelt’s most intriguing natural sites. This deep sinkhole lake, estimated to be about 100 metres deep, is surrounded by rocky terrain that gives it a quiet, almost secluded feel.
What sets Lake Kashiba apart is the stories that surround it. Local lore suggests that fish caught from the lake cannot be cooked, no matter how long they are placed on the fire. Whether myth or mystery, it adds to the sense that this is a place that invites curiosity.
The lake is suitable for picnics, birdwatching, and, for more adventurous visitors, diving. It is best visited in the morning or early afternoon, and going with a local guide is highly recommended; they often provide insight into both the landscape and its stories.
Be sure to carry essentials such as water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding rocks.
Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage
Just outside Chingola lies Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, one of the largest chimpanzee sanctuaries in the world. Established in the early 1980s, it has grown into a space dedicated to education and community engagement.
A visit here offers more than just sightseeing. Visitors get the opportunity to learn about rescued chimpanzees, their rehabilitation journeys, and the broader importance of protecting wildlife. The sanctuary operates guided tours, which are the best way to fully experience what Chimfunshi has to offer.
The cooler hours of the morning are ideal for visiting, as this is when activity within the sanctuary is at its peak. Comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera are all worth bringing along.
What makes Chimfunshi special is the sense of connection it creates, not just with the animals, but with the broader idea of conservation and care.
Dag Hammarskjöld Memorial Site
A short drive from Ndola, the Dag Hammarskjöld Memorial Site stands as a place of both historical and global significance. It marks the location of the plane crash that claimed the life of the second Secretary-General of the United Nations in 1961.
Set within quiet woodland, the site offers a reflective atmosphere that feels removed from the noise of daily life. It is a space for pause and contemplation.
The best time to visit is during the cooler parts of the day, either in the morning or late afternoon. Visitors are encouraged to take their time here, walking through the grounds and engaging with the history at their own pace.
Carrying water and wearing comfortable clothing is advisable, especially if you plan to spend time exploring the area.
Why the Copperbelt Is Worth Exploring
A common thread across these places is the sense of connection they offer, whether to nature, history, or something more personal. They are not loud or overly commercial, and that is precisely what makes them memorable.
The Copperbelt is often seen through a single lens, but experiences like these remind us that there is far more beneath the surface. For those willing to look beyond the obvious, the region offers moments of stillness, curiosity, and quiet discovery.
Sometimes, the most meaningful travel experiences are the ones you almost miss.
