Exotic destinations, gorgeous, sweeping landscapes, and African wildlife wandering past as you drink your evening gin and tonic sounds like a Hollywood movie scene. However, these unpolished gems of the travel industry do still exist, and destinations like Livingstone on the southern tip of Zambia provide all of the ingredients for envious holiday snaps.
We understand that luxury travel and African destinations are not often spoken of in the same manner. While you might need to rough it a little bit more by accepting a few moments away from a Wi-Fi connection or traveling in a safari vehicle, the rewards far outweigh the inconvenience of wind-swept hair. Check out our top recommendations when visiting Livingstone, the home of Victoria Falls in Zambia.
Before You Go
Organizations like Pack for a Purpose have partnered with many of the lodges and activities in Livingstone, Zambia. The website has items listed that local schools and charities are requesting and can include toothbrushes, school supplies, or solar calculators, to name a few. If you have an additional luggage allowance, consider bringing a few extra gifts that will help the local communities.
Health considerations are often top of the list for anyone planning international travel. Stay up to date with current wellness trends on Felix Health Blog and speak to your local health care provider. As with any foreign travel, be certain to have up-to-date medical insurance.
Accommodation
Livingstone, Zambia, has various accommodation options, from funky backpackers lodges to opulent five-star hotels. However, it is the tucked-away boutique lodges that pique our interest and provide unforgettable experiences. For example, Tongabezi by Green Safaris has private houses that open to sweeping views of the Zambezi River and come complete with a private plunge pool.
Experiential Dining
There are a few other activities that inspire all of the senses like a fantastic meal in a beautiful location. Image yourself dining in the African bush surrounded by rescued elephants. You can do this at the Elephant Café and get the pictures to prove it. Reach out and offer some seed pods to the curious elephant that will be delighted to eat right out of your hand.
The Victoria Falls Steam Train is another experiential dining experience that rivals our first suggestion. You’ll be swept back in time as you board a fully restored steam train and chug towards the historic Victoria Falls Bridge that connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. The train is privy to stopping in the center of the bridge when you can walk around and view the world’s largest curtain of falling water, complete with a glass of bubbles in hand. On your return journey, you’ll enjoy an extended dinner service to the gentle rocking of the train.
Victoria Falls
The main drawcard to Livingstone, Zambia is Victoria Falls: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. We would encourage a half-day private guided tour of the rainforest area surrounding the waterfall. Then, for those that are brave and want the best views, including an excursion to Livingstone Island’s Devil’s Pool on your itinerary or a microlight flight.
Getting There and Away
Livingstone is ideally situated to offer numerous arrival airports. The nearest is the Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Airport in Livingstone, Zambia; however, Victoria Falls Airport in nearby Zimbabwe is less than a half-hour away. Similarly, you could consider Kasane Airport in Botswana, which is an hour away by road transfer.
Wanderlust is an almost tangible yearning for many people obsessed with planning their next getaway. When you can go anywhere, look for places that will provide endless anecdotes about waterfalls, elephants, and beautiful, friendly people.