Livingstone Safari
An historic colonial town and gateway to the Victoria Falls
Overview
Livingstone
Livingstone is a picturesque Edwardian town and gateway to the spectacular natural wonders of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River.
Although named after David Livingstone, the first European thought to have set eyes on the falls in 1855, the story of Livingstone stretches far deeper into history. The Toka-Leya people have called this area home for centuries, whilst the Kololo tribe were the first to name the falls ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya,’ or ‘The Smoke that Thunders.’
Livingstone may no longer be the official capital of Zambia but it remains an essential addition to any Zambia family safari. Streets are lined with British colonial architecture and the town’s setting, a few kilometres away from the falls, makes it quieter and less touristy than Victoria Falls Town in Zimbabwe.
Whether staying in a riverside lodge with direct access to the falls or a hotel in town, families can enjoy a range of activities. From thrilling dips in Devil’s Pool, teetering over the edge of the waterfall, to a more leisurely sunset cruise along the Zambezi, a family safari to Livingstone has something for everyone.
Overview
Livingstone
Where is Livingstone?
Livingstone, the pre-colonial capital of Zambia, is located in the deep southwest of the country.
Lying 10km to the north of the Zambezi River, Livingstone has become Zambia’s gateway to the spectacular Victoria Falls and is therefore an essential stop-off on a luxury family safari to Zambia.
Nestled on the border with Zimbabwe and only a short drive from Botswana’s Chobe National Park, Livingstone is also ideal for family holidays to multiple safari destinations.
What to do in Livingstone?
Although often overshadowed by the bustling Victoria Falls across the Zimbabwean border, Livingstone is finally gaining recognition for its laid-back charm and adventure activities.
The main draw to Livingstone is, of course, Victoria Falls—one of the world’s natural wonders. Known as the world’s largest falling curtain of water, over 500 million cubic metres cascade over its edge every minute at peak flow, creating a thunderous roar and atmospheric mist. The Zambian side offers a far closer view, and daredevils can even swim in Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool on the cliff’s edge. With white-water rafting, microlighting, and bungee jumping all on offer, Livingstone is often dubbed the ‘Adventure Capital of Africa.’
But there’s more to Livingstone than the falls. Families can enjoy walking safaris through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to see the white rhinos or take a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park to spot lions, elephants, and cheetahs. As Zambia’s cultural capital, visits to the Livingstone Museum and Mukuni Cultural Village are a must for learning about local history and culture—essential parts of any Zambia family safari.
To unwind after a day of adventure, a sunset cruise along the Zambezi, with hippos and crocs gliding by, is the perfect way to end your Zambia safari holiday.
Best time to visit?
The flow and power of Victoria Falls fluctuates massively throughout the year so it is worth timing your trip to Livingstone accordingly.
Following the rainy Emerald season, the Falls cascade with dramatic force from February to June. However, the mist generated by the waterfall can disrupt views and the weather can remain unreliable.
The early dry season, from June to September, is by far the best time to visit Livingstone. The Falls maintain a fierce flow and look spectacular against the sky blue winter skies and game-viewing in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is at its best.
The end of the dry season, from September to November, however is a great time to take advantage of the lower water levels and experience some of the more hare-raising water activities around the Falls.
Who should visit?
Livingstone is an ideal destination for a Zambia family safari, offering a wide range of activities and accommodations.
Thrill-seeking teenagers will love the excitement of white-water rafting on the Zambezi’s rapids, while multi-generational families can enjoy more relaxed options like sunset boat cruises, canoeing safaris, and day trips around the area.
Accommodation choices are equally diverse, from rustic riverside camps perfect for smaller budgets to some of Zambia’s most luxurious lodges with private Zambezi riverfronts. No matter what you’re looking for on your Zambia safari holiday, Livingstone has something for everyone.