Details for Livingstone (Victoria Falls)
Livingstone is a historic town in southern Zambia and the primary gateway to Victoria Falls. Named after explorer David Livingstone, the town blends colonial heritage with modern tourism infrastructure. Livingstone is a hub for adventure activities such as white-water rafting, river cruises, and wildlife experiences along the Zambezi River. The town features museums, markets, hotels, and cultural centers, making it a convenient and welcoming base for visitors. Its proximity to national parks and cross-border access to Zimbabwe further enhances its importance. Livingstone plays a central role in Zambia’s tourism industry and offers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
Founded in 1905 and named in honour of the renowned Victorian missionary explorer Dr David Livingstone, who conducted extensive expeditions in the region, the town of Livingstone holds significant historical importance. Its strategic location near the Zambezi River crossing into Southern Rhodesia, now modern-day Zimbabwe, led to its designation as the capital of Northern Rhodesia in 1911. During this period, the town benefited from exceptional infrastructure and facilities, surpassing those found elsewhere in the territory. This legacy remains evident in the well-preserved Edwardian architecture lining the main thoroughfare, including the notable Stanley House, named after journalist Henry Morton Stanley who famously located the missing Dr Livingstone. To this day, Livingstone has become emblematic of adventure tourism, attracting thrill-seekers from across the globe. While modest in size, the town maintains notably higher standards of cleanliness and safety compared to most African cities. Visitors may immerse themselves in cultural attractions such as the Livingstone Museum, Railway Museum and Gateway Jewish Museum. The surrounding area boasts spectacular natural wonders, with the iconic Victoria Falls and several national parks within easy reach, alongside convenient access to neighbouring Zimbabwe.
178,361 (2023)
Zambian Kwacha 1K = 100 ngwee
999
Business hours are typically from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Some establishments extend their opening times until 7pm and Saturdays. Government offices operate from 8am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm, Monday through Friday. Banks open from 8am to 2pm, Monday to Friday.
Chobe National Park (Botswana)
Chobe National Park (Botswana)
Located in neighbouring Botswana, Chobe National Park stands as a true wildlife paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You can marvel at elephants, giraffes, lions, warthogs, hippopotamus, impala, baboons, kudu, waterbuck and numerous other species roaming freely across the landscape. For the most enriching experience, hiring a professional tour agency with expert guides is highly recommended, as their in-depth knowledge brings the park's ecosystem to life. Alternatively, adventurous travellers may opt to explore independently in a sturdy 4x4 vehicle. The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa provides convenient options for those visiting from Zambia, offering both day excursions and extended safari packages with accommodation included.
Devil’s Pool
Devil’s Pool
For brave souls seeking the world’s most exhilarating swim, Devil’s Pool delivers an unforgettable adrenaline rush. This natural rock pool, sculpted by millennia of erosion, sits precisely on the precipice of Victoria Falls, where the Zambezi’s waters cascade 100 metres into the gorge below. Accessible only during the dry season (typically mid-August to mid-January), the experience begins with a boat ride to Livingstone Island — the very spot where explorer David Livingstone first laid eyes on the falls in 1855. The adventure continues as visitors wade and swim through gentle currents, guided by experts to the pool’s edge. Here, a submerged rock lip creates a natural barrier, allowing swimmers to peer safely over the thunderous drop while the river’s force swirls around them. In the driest months (October-November), some may walk across exposed rocks to reach the pool, though a guide remains mandatory. While the sight of bathers lounging at the waterfall’s brink makes for iconic photos, the reality is even more breathtaking. As over 500 million litres of water plunge past each minute, the pool’s deceptive calm contrasts with the roaring abyss just beyond your fingertips. Five daily tours depart for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, though nature dictates the schedule — high waters from March to May render the pool inaccessible. For those who dare, Devil’s Pool offers not just a swim, but a visceral connection to the raw power of Africa’s greatest waterfall.
Elephant Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Elephant Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Wild Horizons delivers an unforgettable elephant encounter on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, offering a rare chance to interact intimately with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. You will be able to feed, touch, and walk alongside the elephants while knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights about their behaviour and conservation. The experience includes excellent refreshments and service.
Gorge Swing & Zipline Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Gorge Swing & Zipline Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
The Victoria Falls gorge swing delivers an electrifying adventure, blending the intensity of a 70-metre free-fall with spectacular panoramic views of the mighty Zambezi River and the dramatic Batoka Gorge. You will receive comprehensive safety briefings and equipment from the professional and attentive staff who ensure every participant feels confident throughout the experience. The adventure continues with nine exhilarating zip lines that criss-cross the gorge, each transition offering moments to pause and absorb the breathtaking surroundings. For comfort and safety, you are advised to wear sun protection, comfortable clothing and hiking or running shoes.
Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls
Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls
For the most dramatic perspective of Victoria Falls, nothing rivals the aerial views available through scenic flights. Livingstone's Adventures, the operator for these experiences, provides various options to suit different preferences, from brief helicopter flights to extended ones featuring dramatic low-level passes through the Batoka Gorge. These flights not only showcase the falls' full grandeur but also reveal stunning vistas of surrounding islands and local villages. While requiring a minimum of two passengers and representing a considerable investment, the unrivalled panoramic views make this experience truly unforgettable and well worth the expense.
Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe)
Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe)
Hwange National Park presents an exceptional opportunity to extend your African safari experience beyond Zambia. Situated northwest of Zimbabwe, with its eastern part being the closest Livingstone, this vast conservation area, formerly known as Wankie Game Reserve, spans approximately 14,600 square kilometres, making it Zimbabwe's largest protected wilderness. Nearby, the village of Matetsi also delivers superb safari experiences, complementing the park’s own offerings. The park is home to over 100 mammal species and 400 bird varieties, including rare sightings of gemsbok, brown hyenas, African wild dogs, cheetahs, and leopards, alongside spectacular avian species such as the southern ground hornbill and martial eagle Hwange Safaris offers comprehensive tour packages, wildlife viewing expeditions, and accommodation within the park. Note this magnificent reserve lies within Zimbabwe's borders, requiring proper travel documentation for entry to both Zambia and Zimbabwe to facilitate this extraordinary cross-border adventure.
Livingstone Crocodile Park
Livingstone Crocodile Park
Livingstone Crocodile Park offers an immersive encounter with some of Africa's most fascinating reptiles. Knowledgeable guides bring you face-to-face with rescued Nile crocodiles, including some of the largest specimens from the river, while sharing captivating insights about their behaviour and conservation. The park is also home to snakes, tortoises and chameleons. During hatching season, you have the unique opportunity to meet baby crocodiles.
Livingstone Museum
Livingstone Museum
Founded in 1934, the Livingstone Museum holds the distinction of being Zambia's largest and most historic museum. This cultural institution offers you a fascinating journey through galleries showcasing collections spanning natural history, archaeology and ethnography. Among its most prized possessions are the archives of Dr Livingstone's personal correspondence and historical documents. There's also a shop in the museum if you want to purchase quality local artwork or other souvenirs.
Mukuni Boma
Mukuni Boma
Located in the Avani Victoria Falls Resort, Mukuni Boma offers an immersive celebration of Zambian culture through its exceptional dining experience. Set in a replica village overlooking the Zambezi River, you dine under the stars while enjoying vibrant performances by resident musicians and traditional dancers, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of rhythm and flavour. The culinary journey begins with distinctive starters such as the Chilemba Bean Salad and Chongwe Chimbwashi Potato Salad, before progressing to their signature 'Mpoto' experience, traditional African pots brimming with local delicacies. For those preferring flame-grilled specialties, the menu also features options cooked to perfection.
S'LO Lounge
S'LO Lounge
S'LO Lounge blends European elegance with vibrant African flair, creating a unique cultural fusion in the heart of Livingstone. The establishment's colourful walls pay homage to local artistic traditions while maintaining a distinctly continental atmosphere. Indulge in their superb platter featuring tender chicken, fresh fish, crispy samosas and other delectable bites, all expertly prepared. The experience is complemented by an excellent selection of local beers and wines, best enjoyed in the inviting outdoor seating area.
Sea Spice Restaurant Zambia
Sea Spice Restaurant Zambia
Sea Spice Restaurant is a haven for seafood lovers, specialising in fresh fish dishes prepared with precision and passion. Their tightly focused menu reflects an advanced level of culinary expertise, particularly evident in their fish curry. Additionally, their tartar, chilli, and garlic sauces are crafted in-house using locally sourced ingredients, while the naan bread arrives fresh from the oven with the perfect crisp exterior.
The Golden Leaf
The Golden Leaf
Golden Leaf offers Livingstone’s finest Indian cuisine in a charming, atmospheric setting. This family-run restaurant serves exceptionally fresh dishes at fair prices, with standouts like their vegetable biryani, generously portioned, and expertly spiced. While their menu features classics like butter chicken and crisp samosas, you should note their bold approach to heat: even medium-spiced dishes pack a serious chilli punch. Opt for mild to fully appreciate the nuanced flavours without overwhelming your palate.
The Old The Old Farm House
The Old The Old Farm House
The Old Farm House offers far more than just exceptional dining, it also provides a truly unique cultural experience. This charming establishment combines delicious local cuisine with creative entertainment, most notably their popular 'paint and sip' sessions where professional artists guide you through recreating beautiful artworks while enjoying fine wines and other refreshments. The menu showcases specialities that perfectly complement the relaxed farm atmosphere, including succulent Portuguese chicken, grilled strip steak, juicy pork chops and aromatic herb chicken. Savour these culinary delights surrounded by fresh country air, making every visit both a gastronomic and sensory pleasure.
Zest Bar & Restaurant
Zest Bar & Restaurant
Zest Bar & Restaurant offers a charming, laid-back dining experience in the heart of Livingstone. Set in a picturesque covered courtyard, this unassuming gem serves delicious meals and refreshing drinks with a strong focus on fresh, local ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan diners will appreciate the thoughtfully crafted plant-based options, while the selection of innovative side dishes, all prepared with seasonal Zambian produce, adds a delightful local touch. A standout feature is their serving of Wild Dog beer, Zambia’s pioneering craft brew, perfect for pairing with their flavourful dishes.
Kubu Cafe
Kubu Cafe
Kubu Café is charmingly decorated with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by friendly and attentive staff. It offers comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, charging points and even a small curio shop for local finds. There's also secure parking available on-site. Their tempting selection of cakes, meals, beverages and recently introduced vegan options, particularly the chickpea tacos, are a real treat. On special occasions, you might even be treated to live performances featuring the vibrant rhythms of African music.
Munali Café
Munali Café
Munali Café is a popular gem in Livingstone, known for serving some of the best bread in town. The menu features delightful treats like coffee, milkshakes, steak pies, and delicious pastries. The shawarma is a favourite among regulars, and the coffee never disappoints.
Nomad's Rest Cafe & Bistro
Nomad's Rest Cafe & Bistro
Nomad's Rest Café & Bistro is a scenic and peaceful spot, perfect for a relaxing meal. Their iced coffee is refreshingly good, and the breakfast, made with high-quality ingredients, is both delicious and satisfying. The juice and granola bowl with yoghurt is a standout morning choice. In addition to breakfast, the bistro also serves a range of lunch and dinner options.
Sweet & Salty Cafe
Sweet & Salty Cafe
Sweet & Salty Café is a top spot in Livingstone, offering excellent breakfast options and what might just be the best chips you'll find in Zambia. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with a lovely beer garden, an indoor dining area, a bar, outdoor terrace, and counter seating to suit any mood. Their pizzas are truly outstanding, flavourful, freshly made, and generously portioned. The coffee is also a highlight, making it one of the best places in town to eat, drink, and unwind.
The Lookout Cafe (Zimbabwe)
The Lookout Cafe (Zimbabwe)
The Lookout Café is renowned for its prime location perched high above the banks of the Zambezi River on the Zimbabwean side, offering truly spectacular views, especially at dusk. It’s a must-visit spot, with breathtaking vistas of the gorge, the spray from the falls, and the iconic bridge. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it the perfect place to unwind while enjoying a meal. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the café’s breakfast menu may be small, but it's certainly worth sampling, with highlights such as eggs Benedict and smashed avocado on toast.
Kubu
Kubu
Perched on the banks of the Zambezi River, Kubu offers an unforgettable dining experience where the wild beauty of Africa unfolds before your eyes. With uninterrupted views of the water and the distant rush of Victoria Falls, this open-air bar and restaurant is the perfect spot to witness sunsets while zebras and giraffes wander nearby. By day, the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting — ideal for sipping expertly crafted cocktails or indulging in hearty wood-fired pizzas (the oxtail and blue cheese variety comes highly recommended). As dusk falls, the setting transforms into a romantic retreat, with candlelit tables casting a warm glow over the river. The à la carte menu showcases a fusion of local and international flavours, with standouts like the delicate yet flavourful crocodile carpaccio. While the occasional flower petal may drift onto your table from the overhanging trees, and the evening insects are drawn to the candlelight, these small quirks only add to Kubu’s untamed charm. Reservations are essential, particularly for sunset hours when the golden light paints the Zambezi in dazzling hues.
Limpo's PUB & Grill
Limpo's PUB & Grill
Limpo's PUB & Grill is a vibrant spot known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and solid security. It’s especially popular on Thursday evenings when they host their much-loved karaoke night, a local favourite that draws in quite the crowd. If you're planning to go, it's wise to arrive early to secure a good parking spot. The bar also serves up tasty food, including generous grill platters perfect for sharing with friends.
Shungu Pool Terrace
Shungu Pool Terrace
This relaxed poolside retreat at Avani Victoria Falls Resort offers the perfect counterpoint to a day of waterfall adventures. Guests unwind on sun loungers as zebras graze nearby, sipping cocktails mixed to order while wood-fired pizzas emerge crisp from the oven. The casual, open-air setup leans into its wilderness setting — you might spot antelope beyond the pool's edge while listening to the distant rumble of "The Smoke That Thunders". By day, it's the ideal spot for light lunches between safaris; by evening, the terrace becomes a romantic vantage point for sundowners. The real magic lies in its balance: all the comforts of a resort pool (attentive service, quality fare) paired with untamed African moments you can't script.
The Royal Livingstone Lounge
The Royal Livingstone Lounge
Step into a world of old-world elegance and timeless adventure at The Royal Livingstone Lounge, where the spirit of explorer Sir David Livingstone lingers in every detail. Adorned with hand-drawn maps, vintage artifacts, and paintings from Livingstone’s travels, this refined retreat invites guests to unwind in an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Open around the clock, the lounge is a sanctuary for both early risers and night owls. Begin your day with specialty coffee or tea as you plan your Zambezi adventures, surrounded by the soft glow of ambient lighting and the gentle rustle of the nearby river. As the afternoon unfolds, indulge in a classic high tea, complete with delicate pastries and savoory bites. Come evening, the space transforms into an intimate setting for whiskey tastings and nightcaps, where antique wooden chests and rich leather furnishings evoke the golden age of exploration. Connected to The Travellers Bar, the lounge offers seamless transitions from relaxed daytime reading to evening cocktails — all while wildlife roams freely just beyond the terrace.
Vix Falls Sports Bar & Restaurant
Vix Falls Sports Bar & Restaurant
Vix Falls Sports Bar and Restaurant is a lively and welcoming spot for a night out in Livingstone. Whether you're into sports, karaoke, or just looking for a fun evening, this place has you covered. The menu is hearty and satisfying, featuring favourites like ribs, beef cheeseburgers with bacon and chips, and classic fish and chips. With pool tables, live music, bar crawl events, and themed nights, there's always something happening to keep the energy up.
Falls Park Shopping Centre
Falls Park Shopping Centre
Falls Park is one of the more modern spots in town if you’re after basics or need a quick bite. There’s a supermarket, pharmacy, a few clothing shops, and places to grab lunch or coffee. Not much in the way of souvenirs, but handy if you’re running low on travel essentials.
Livingstone Museum Crafts Shop
Livingstone Museum Crafts Shop
Tucked inside the museum courtyard, this small shop is worth a look after exploring the exhibits. You'll find locally made items like wooden bowls, beaded jewellery, woven baskets, and soft animal toys. It's a good spot for picking up a souvenir that supports local artisans.
Maramba Market
Maramba Market
Maramba Market is where locals actually shop — fresh fruit, veggies, second-hand clothes, chitenge fabric, random electronics, you name it. It’s a bit chaotic and rough around the edges, but worth a wander if you want a real slice of daily life. Bring cash and go early if you're after the freshest stuff.
Mukuni Park Curio Market
Mukuni Park Curio Market
Right in the centre of town, this is the go-to spot for souvenirs in Livingstone. Dozens of stalls packed with wooden giraffes, masks, jewellery, chitenge, and everything in between. Do come with your best haggling skills — it's part of the deal.
Victoria Falls Craft Market
Victoria Falls Craft Market
Just outside the Victoria Falls entrance, this open-air market is lined with stalls selling wood carvings, beaded jewellery, woven baskets, and all kinds of handmade souvenirs. You’ll often find the artists right there, happy to chat about their work. Prices aren’t fixed, so don’t be shy about bargaining — just keep it friendly.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Livingstone is between July and October, when the weather is calm and pleasant, wildlife is abundant near water sources, and the Victoria Falls are both impressive and accessible for activities like white-water rafting. While Livingstone can be enjoyed year-round, the rainy season from December to March is less ideal, as heavy rainfall may lead to attraction closures. Some sites may remain closed until June for safety reasons. From November to May, there is also an increased risk of malaria, so it’s wise to consult your local healthcare provider about vaccinations and preventive measures before travelling.
Passport & Visa
Passport & Visa
Zambia can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel, UAE and some countries in America including The USA, Canada and Argentina. Visitors from other nations can enter the country by obtaining a visa on arrival, this could be single entry or double entry. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country.
Airports
Airports
Livingstone's strategic location near the borders of Zimbabwe and Botswana makes it one of the most accessible cities in the region. Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) serves as the city's main airport and hosts a variety of major African and international airlines, including Air Botswana, Air Tanzania, Zambia Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, South African Airways, and Turkish Airlines. These carriers connect Livingstone to key destinations such as Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Dubai, and Kigali. The airport offers convenient amenities including dining options, banking services, ATMs, vending machines, and car hire facilities. Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), located in Zimbabwe, approximately 34 kilometres from Livingstone, serves as a convenient alternative for travellers visiting the region. Though smaller in size, the airport provides connections to several major African cities, where passengers can link to international flights to Europe and the Middle East. Last but not least, Kasane Airport (BBK) in Botswana is a less commonly used option due to its distance, around 85 kilometres from Livingstone, but it can be convenient for travellers exploring Southern Africa. Alternatively, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, also serves as an entry point, though it is the least convenient for reaching Livingstone directly, being approximately 503 kilometres away.
Public Transport
Public Transport
Livingstone’s public transport mainly consists of minibuses, which are often poorly maintained and not typically used by tourists. Most visitors prefer more reliable options such as taxis, private shuttles provided by tour operators, or rental cars. If you do choose to use public transport, it’s advisable to seek guidance from your hotel or trusted locals to ensure a safer experience.
Taxi
Taxi
Car-sharing apps are not widely used in Livingstone, but there are several reputable taxi companies that also offer tour services. One notable option is Owen's Taxi and Tours, a well-regarded local operator known for its reliable service and diverse tour offerings for small and large groups.
Electricity
Electricity
Zambia operates on a power voltage of 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. The country uses three types of power plugs: Type C, the standard European plug, Type D, with three round pins in a triangular pattern, and Type G, the British-style three rectangular prong plug. If you're visiting from the US or Canada, where the voltage is typically 110V, you'll need a plug adaptor, and possibly a voltage converter depending on your device. Travellers from the UK or most European countries should be able to use their electronics with little or no adjustment, though bringing a universal adaptor is always a safe bet.
Pharmacy
Pharmacy
Locating a pharmacy in Livingstone proves remarkably convenient, with numerous options available throughout this compact town. Among the most prominent establishments are Healthrise Pharmacy and Health & Glow Pharmacy.
Post Office
Post Office
The main post office in Livingstone enjoys a central location, providing convenient access during standard business hours.
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