· ZM

Livingstone

Livingstone, Southern, Zambia

Livingstone, located in the Southern region of Zambia, is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and history. Named after the famous explorer Dr. David Livingstone, this town …

#Livingstone#Southern#Zambia#Victoria Falls#Tourism

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Livingstone.

Top Hotels in Livingstone

Top Flights to Livingstone

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Livingstone.

Tours

Victoria Falls Tour

A guided tour to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Mukuni Village Tour

Discover the culture and traditions of Zambia's indigenous people with a visit to Mukuni Village.

Shopping

Curio Market Shopping

Explore a market filled with local arts and crafts, perfect for souvenirs.

Outdoor

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park Safari

Enjoy a safari tour to see the abundant wildlife in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Batoka Gorge Rafting

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting in the Batoka Gorge below Victoria Falls.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Livingstone.

Currency

ZK | ZMW | Zambian Kwacha

Population

33000.0

Languages

English, Bemba, Lozi, Nyanja, Tonga

Average weather

Livingstone

Jan

31°20°

Feb

30°20°

Mar

30°19°

Apr

29°17°

May

27°13°

Jun

25°10°

Jul

25°9°

Aug

28°12°

Sep

32°16°

Oct

35°20°

Nov

34°21°

Dec

32°21°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Livingstone.

What people love

Livingstone, located in the Southern Province of Zambia, is a popular destination known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Livingstone:

Victoria Falls: Livingstone is home to the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of the falls and even partake in various activities such as bungee jumping, helicopter rides, and boat cruises.
Adventure activities: Livingstone offers a wide range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers, including white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, zip-lining, and microlight flights over the falls.
Wildlife: The region around Livingstone is teeming with wildlife, making it an ideal destination for safari enthusiasts. Visitors can go on game drives in nearby national parks such as Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and see a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and hippos.
Cultural experiences: Livingstone has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions by visiting villages, attending cultural performances, and interacting with the friendly local communities.
Accommodation options: Livingstone offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxury lodges and hotels to cozy guesthouses and backpacker hostels.

Overall, traveling to Livingstone offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Victoria Falls, engage in thrilling adventure activities, explore the local wildlife, immerse oneself in the local culture, and enjoy comfortable accommodation options.

Enjoy your trip to Livingstone!

What to know

Traveling to Livingstone, Zambia, located in the Southern province, can have a few cons that travelers should be aware of:

Malaria Risk: Livingstone, like many parts of Zambia, is a malaria-endemic area. Travelers are advised to take preventive measures such as taking anti-malarial medication, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets.
Health and Safety Concerns: The healthcare facilities in Livingstone may not be as advanced as in some other countries. Travelers should be cautious and take necessary health precautions before and during their trip.
Road Conditions: Some roads in and around Livingstone may be in poor condition, which can make travel challenging. It's important for travelers to be cautious while driving or using transportation services in the area.
Weather Conditions: Livingstone can experience extreme weather conditions, with hot temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Travelers should pack accordingly and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Tourist Crowds: Livingstone is a popular tourist destination, especially for those visiting the Victoria Falls. During peak tourist seasons, the area can be crowded, which may impact the overall travel experience.
Cultural Sensitivities: Travelers should be respectful of the local customs and traditions in Livingstone and throughout Zambia. It's important to research and understand the cultural norms to avoid any unintentional disrespect.

Overall, while Livingstone is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer, travelers should be mindful of these potential cons and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Livingstone, located in the Southern Province of Zambia, is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, which is shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Early History

Livingstone was originally a village called "Old Drift," situated along the Zambezi River. It became an important crossing point for European settlers and traders in the late 19th century. The village moved to its present location to avoid malaria, which was prevalent near the river.

Colonial Era

In 1905, the city was named after the Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone, the first European to explore the area and to see the Victoria Falls in 1855. The city quickly grew as a colonial administrative and trading center. The construction of the Victoria Falls Bridge in 1905, which connected Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), facilitated the movement of goods and people, boosting the city's growth.

Significant Events and Historical Figures

David Livingstone: The city is named after him due to his exploration in the region. His work in Africa, particularly in combating the slave trade, left a lasting legacy.
Railway Development: The extension of the railway from Bulawayo to Livingstone in the early 20th century was a significant factor in the city's development. This railway was part of Cecil Rhodes' vision of a "Cape to Cairo" railway.
Independence Movement: Livingstone played a role in Zambia's struggle for independence from British colonial rule, which was achieved in 1964. The city was a hub for political activities during this time.

Post-Independence

After independence, Livingstone continued to develop as a tourist destination due to its proximity to Victoria Falls. The city has invested in infrastructure to support tourism, which is a major part of its economy.

Important Landmarks

Victoria Falls: Known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders), it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.
Victoria Falls Bridge: An engineering marvel of its time, the bridge provides a stunning view of the falls and is a popular spot for bungee jumping.
Livingstone Museum: The oldest and largest museum in Zambia, it features extensive displays on the natural and cultural history of the region, including artifacts from David Livingstone's explorations.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: This park encompasses part of the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls, and is home to a variety of wildlife including white rhinos, elephants, and giraffes.
Maramba Cultural Village: This is a site where visitors can experience traditional Zambian culture, including traditional dances and crafts.

Livingstone continues to be a vibrant city that attracts tourists from around the world. Its historical significance and proximity to natural wonders make it a key destination in Southern Africa.