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Luanshya Copper Mines

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

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The Luanshya Copper Mines are located in the town of Luanshya within the Copperbelt Province and are among the most historically significant mining sites in Zambia. The discovery of copper deposits in 1902 by William Collier led to the establishment of the mine, which defined the region's prosperity for decades. Today, the mines are operated by the China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group (CNMC), which has invested heavily in reviving the site's productivity. Key operations include the Baluba underground mine and the Mulyashi open-pit project, the latter utilizing a modern leach plant for copper recovery. Luanshya is well-known for its superior urban infrastructure, originally developed as a model garden city for mining employees during the colonial era. Despite periods of closure and economic restructuring, the mine remains a central pillar of the local economy and a major contributor to national copper exports. The partnership with Chinese investors has introduced new technologies and secured thousands of jobs. The company also plays a role in maintaining municipal services and supporting community welfare.

Location: Zambia
Top sights: Luanshya · Roan Antelope copper mine · Kafubu Stadium
Nearby: Ndola (31 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	21	21	20	18	17	17	20	23	26	25	22
Rain mm	291	198	138	30	3	1	0	1	1	11	95	268

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Luanshya Copper Mines have significantly contributed to the development of the city of Luanshya and are a historically important copper producer in the Copperbelt. Their long mining tradition shapes the identity of the region.

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Visiting

The mines are not open to the public, but the old town and surrounding hills offer views of the disused and active shafts. Visitors can trace the industrial history through the preserved buildings.

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Where to view it

From the hills above the city center, you get a good overview of the entire mine site. The nearby Makoma Hill also provides an excellent vantage point over the Luanshya facilities.

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Local products

In Luanshya, copper concentrates are mined, but at the local market travelers find fresh agricultural produce and traditional handicrafts. Copper art objects are a popular souvenir from the region.

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Active season

Mining continues year-round, with production being more intense during the dry season (May to October) due to better working conditions. During the rainy season, transport routes may be affected.

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Nearby

A trip to the Luanshya mines can be combined with a visit to the nearby fish pond project or the Luanshya market. The city of Ndola with its museums and markets is also worth a day trip.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.13670, 28.40690

Facts

Copper deposits first discovered in 1902
Currently operated by China Nonferrous Metal Mining Group
Includes the Baluba underground mine and Mulyashi project
First Zambian mining town built with modern urban planning
Produces high-quality copper cathodes and concentrates
Primary driver of the local economy in Luanshya District

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Luanshya<1 km · NExplore →

Roan Antelope Discovery Site4 km · EExplore →

Dangote Cement Plant15 km · NExplore →

Mukuba Mall29 km · NEExplore →

Ndola Youth Park30 km · NEExplore →

Indeni Petroleum Refinery30 km · NEExplore →

Ndola Butterfly Habitat31 km · NEExplore →

Bwana Mkubwa Mine32 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Luanshya Copper Mines (3)

Luanshya📍 landmark

Town in Zambia's Copperbelt, center for copper mining and processing.

Roan Antelope copper mine📍 landmark

Historic copper mine near Luanshya, extracts copper ore from the area.

Kafubu Stadium📍 landmark

Football stadium in Luanshya, hosts local matches and events.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Luanshya historically important?

It was a center of copper mining during the colonial era.

Can one visit the mines?

No, guided tours for tourists are not offered.

What is the economic situation today?

The mines fluctuate between operation and shutdown based on copper prices.

Where exactly is this mine?

It is in the Copperbelt in the city of Luanshya.

What defines the cityscape?

The cityscape is defined by old mine buildings and residential areas.

Luanshya Copper Mines: where is it located?

Luanshya Copper Mines is located in Zambia.

Luanshya Copper Mines: what is there to see?

Highlights include Luanshya, Roan Antelope copper mine, Kafubu Stadium.

Luanshya Copper Mines: when is the best time to visit?