City Guide for: Livingstone, Zambia

Livingstone, Zambia Guide

Livingstone, Zambia, is a vibrant city steeped in history and adventure, serving as the gateway to the magnificent Victoria Falls. Named after the famous explorer David Livingstone, the city offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both natural wonders and cultural experiences. From thrilling white-water rafting to serene sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, Livingstone provides an unforgettable African adventure. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping activities, Livingstone boasts a rich cultural heritage. Explore the Livingstone Museum to delve into the region's history and anthropology, or visit the Maramba Cultural Village to witness traditional Zambian life. The city's friendly locals and bustling markets offer a glimpse into the heart of Zambian culture, making Livingstone a truly immersive and rewarding travel destination.

Food & Cuisine

Zambian cuisine in Livingstone is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and international influences. Nshima, a thick porridge made from maize flour, is the staple food, often served with relish made from vegetables, meat, or fish. Try Kapenta, small dried fish, or Ifisashi, a peanut-based stew. For a more upscale dining experience, many restaurants offer international cuisine alongside local dishes. The Zambezi Sun Hotel and the Royal Livingstone Hotel both have excellent restaurants with stunning views. For a more local experience, explore the markets for fresh produce and street food vendors offering grilled meats and snacks.

Nightlife

Livingstone's nightlife is relatively laid-back but offers a variety of options for evening entertainment. Many bars and restaurants stay open late, offering live music and a lively atmosphere. The area around Mosi-oa-Tunya Road is a popular spot for bars and restaurants. Several hotels also have their own bars and entertainment venues. For a more authentic experience, look for local bars and shebeens (informal bars) where you can mingle with locals and enjoy traditional Zambian music.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Livingstone is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities like white-water rafting and game viewing. The water levels of the Zambezi River are also lower during this time, allowing for safer and more accessible rafting experiences. However, the Victoria Falls may have less water flowing over them during the late dry season (September-October).

Transportation

Livingstone relies primarily on taxis and minibuses for public transportation. Taxis are readily available, especially near hotels and tourist attractions, but it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand. Minibuses are a more affordable option, operating on fixed routes throughout the city, but can be crowded and less comfortable. There is no tram or subway/metro system in Livingstone.

Airport

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) is the main airport serving Livingstone. It is located approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the city center. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available at the airport for transportation to hotels and other destinations in Livingstone. Many hotels also offer airport transfer services for their guests.

Attractions

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park This national park is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching in the park's beautiful natural surroundings.

Livingstone Craft Market

Livingstone Craft Market The Livingstone Craft Market is a vibrant market where visitors can shop for local handicrafts, artwork, and souvenirs. The market offers a wide range of products made by local artisans, providing a unique shopping experience.

Livingstone Reptile Park

Livingstone Reptile Park The Livingstone Reptile Park is home to a variety of reptiles including snakes, crocodiles, and lizards. Visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures through guided tours and interactive exhibits.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, known as 'The Smoke that Thunders'. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, take a boat cruise on the Zambezi River, or even go bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge.

Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park Chobe National Park is located near Livingstone and offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, including elephants, lions, and hippos. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, and bird watching in this beautiful park.

Livingstone Island

Livingstone Island Livingstone Island offers stunning views of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, swim in natural pools, and even have a unique dining experience on the island.

Zambezi River

Zambezi River The Zambezi River offers a variety of activities for visitors, including sunset cruises, fishing trips, and white-water rafting. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful scenery along the river, with opportunities for bird watching and photography.

Devil's Pool

Devil's Pool Devil's Pool is a natural rock pool located on the edge of Victoria Falls. Visitors can swim in the pool and experience the thrill of looking over the edge of the waterfall, with a guide ensuring safety.

Livingstone Museum

Livingstone Museum The Livingstone Museum showcases the history and culture of Zambia, with exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and natural history. Visitors can learn about the life and work of David Livingstone, the famous explorer and missionary.

Railway Museum

Railway Museum The Railway Museum in Livingstone showcases the history of the railway in Zambia, with exhibits on locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the role of the railway in the development of the country.

Zambezi River Sunset Cruise

Zambezi River Sunset Cruise Experience the magic of the Zambezi River with a sunset cruise. Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Spot wildlife along the riverbanks, including hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views. A truly unforgettable Zambian experience.

Victoria Falls Bridge

Victoria Falls Bridge Walk or bungee jump across the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and the cascading Victoria Falls. Experience the thrill of adventure activities or simply soak in the historical significance and stunning scenery from this engineering marvel. A must-see for any visitor to Livingstone.

Day Trips

Devil's Pool (Seasonal)

For the truly adventurous, a swim in Devil's Pool is an unforgettable experience. This natural rock pool sits right on the edge of Victoria Falls, allowing you to peer over the precipice as the Zambezi River thunders past. Note: Devil's Pool is only accessible during the dry season (typically August to January) when the river flow is low enough to be safe.

Travel Time

30 minutes (including boat ride to Livingstone Island)

Activities
  • Swimming in Devil's Pool (seasonal)
  • Guided tour of Livingstone Island
  • Photo opportunities with Victoria Falls as a backdrop

Railway Museum

Step back in time at the Railway Museum, a fascinating collection of locomotives and railway memorabilia. Explore the history of Zambia's railway system and its importance in the country's development. See vintage steam engines, carriages, and other railway artifacts.

Travel Time

Located in Livingstone town center

Activities
  • Exploring the museum's collection of locomotives and railway artifacts
  • Learning about the history of Zambia's railway system
  • Taking photos with the vintage trains

Zambezi River Sunset Cruise

A Zambezi River sunset cruise is a relaxing and scenic way to end the day. Enjoy the stunning African sunset as you glide along the river, sipping on drinks and enjoying snacks. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the banks, including hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Travel Time

Various departure points along the Zambezi River, 20-40 minutes drive from Livingstone

Activities
  • Sunset viewing
  • Wildlife spotting
  • Enjoying drinks and snacks
  • Relaxing on the river

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Adjacent to Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers a chance to see wildlife in a relatively small and accessible area. While not a traditional safari experience, you can spot white rhinos (protected and closely monitored), elephants, giraffes, zebras, various antelope species, and a variety of birds.

Travel Time

15-20 minutes drive from Livingstone

Activities
  • Rhino tracking on foot
  • Game drives
  • Bird watching
  • Picnics in designated areas

Victoria Falls National Park

You can't visit Livingstone without experiencing the majestic Victoria Falls! This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Witness the awe-inspiring "Mosi-oa-Tunya" ("The Smoke That Thunders") as the Zambezi River plunges into the Batoka Gorge. Explore the rainforest along the cliff edge, marvel at the rainbows, and feel the spray on your face.

Travel Time

5-10 minutes drive from Livingstone

Activities
  • Walking along the various viewpoints of Victoria Falls
  • Visiting the Knife Edge Bridge for panoramic views
  • Exploring the rainforest
  • Optional activities: bungee jumping, white-water rafting, helicopter flights over the Falls

Livingstone Museum

Delve into the history and culture of Zambia at the Livingstone Museum, the oldest and largest museum in the country. Explore exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, history, art, and natural history. Learn about the life and explorations of David Livingstone, the famous Scottish missionary and explorer.

Travel Time

Located in Livingstone town center

Activities
  • Exploring the museum's exhibits
  • Learning about Zambian history and culture
  • Visiting the David Livingstone exhibit

Chobe National Park (Botswana - Partial Day Trip)

While a full day trip to Chobe is pushing the time limits, you can arrange a half-day trip focusing on a morning game drive or a boat cruise on the Chobe River. Chobe is renowned for its large elephant population and diverse wildlife. This option requires an early start and crossing the border into Botswana.

Travel Time

1.5 - 2 hours drive to Kasane border, plus border crossing time. Then activities within Chobe.

Activities
  • Morning game drive in Chobe National Park
  • Boat cruise on the Chobe River
  • Wildlife viewing (elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, etc.)
  • Bird watching