Saint Francis' Hospital, Katete, Zambia

Getting to SFH

Most visitors fly into Lusaka (Zambia’s capital), and then travel by bus to Katete - a 5 - 7 hour ride along the Great East Road heading towards Chipata and Malawi. It is best to take an early bus, as the roads can be risky after dark when it’s more difficult to see other road users (cars, bikes, cattle). So unless you’re a hardy African traveller, consider spending the night in Lusaka then buying a bus ticket in advance ready for travel the next day. Recommended hostels are Kuomboka (although note the recent poor reviews) and Lusaka Backpackers (formerly called ChaChaCha). Buses depart from the Lusaka Intercity Bus Station. Ask for a “luxury” or “express” bus and you’ll get a faster and more comfortable ride. The bus goes past SFH’s main entrance road (about 7km before Katete): the driver should know it, and will stop there if you ask in advance.

nearing Chipata by "local" (mini) bus

The alternative is to fly into Lilongwe (Malawi) and take a bus to Mchinji, a taxi to the border, then another taxi to Chiapata and finally a minibus to Katete. It’s a shorter distance, and a more colourful way to travel, but considerably more hassle. If you are staying overnight in Malawi, one recommended hostel is Mabuya Camp.

 

 

related pages

last updated
29 April 2012