Livingstone

Where the mighty Zambezi River plunges 108 metres into a basalt chasm, Victoria Falls — or Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders) — carves one of Earth’s most dramatic spectacles. Spanning 1,708 metres along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, this UNESCO World Heritage Site reveals its full fury between February and May when floodwaters transform the falls into a thunderous curtain of spray visible from 50 kilometres away. By November, the dry season unveils the geological artistry of the underlying gorges, including the yawning Boiling Pot whirlpool where the river's full force churns violently. On the Zambian side within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, jungle paths lead to the Knife Edge Bridge where visitors brave drenching mist for heart-stopping views of the Eastern Cataract and Rainbow Falls — the highest single drop at 108 metres. The adventurous can descend a steep trail to witness the Zambezi's power at the Boiling Pot, while keeping an eye out for resident baboons and bushbuck. For broader panoramics of the Main Falls and Devil's Cataract, the Zimbabwean side offers unparalleled vistas, especially striking during low water periods from August to January when the falls separate into distinct cascades. A valid passport allows easy border crossing to experience both perspectives. Unique phenomena abound: during full moons, lunar rainbows materialise in the night spray, while Livingstone Island (seasonally accessible) lets visitors peer directly into the precipice where Dr Livingstone first witnessed the falls in 1855. Morning visits provide the clearest views before afternoon spray builds, with waterproof gear essential in wet season. Helicopter flights reveal the falls' full grandeur from above, showcasing how the entire Zambezi funnels through a narrow 110-metre cleft in the basalt plateau — nature's own hydraulic masterpiece. Whether you come for the dry season's geological theatre or the wet season's deafening roar, Victoria Falls remains Africa's most humbling natural wonder, where rainbows dance in perpetual spray and fish eagles soar above gorges carved over millennia. The falls' enduring power continues to captivate, just as they stunned Livingstone, who famously declared: "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight".

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.

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.

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.

A visit to Mukuni Village, located just a short distance from Livingstone, offers an authentic immersion into rural Zambian life. This living community of approximately 7,000 Leya people welcomes you to observe their traditional way of life, providing insight into indigenous customs and daily practices. Observe skilled local artisans at work and sample traditional cuisine and beverages. Unlike many tourist attractions, Mukuni represents a genuine, functioning village where the privilege of visitation comes with the responsibility of respectful observation. For an optimal visit to Mukuni Village, it is best to hire a tour operator. Wild Horizons comes highly recommended as a reputable agency specialising in cultural excursions to authentic village experiences.

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.

The Royal Livingstone Express offers an unforgettable journey that's well worth the splurge when visiting Livingstone. This exquisite train experience combines nostalgic charm with modern luxury, featuring impeccably maintained traditional Pullman carriages pulled by a historic steam engine. The route travels from Livingstone to the Zambia-Zimbabwe border bridge, treating you to breathtaking views of the falls during an exceptional five-course dining period.

The Railway Museum in Livingstone offers a fascinating journey into the golden age of locomotives, particularly captivating for engineering enthusiasts and railway history buffs. Exceptional, knowledgeable guides bring the exhibits to life with engaging commentary about the mechanical workings and historical significance of the vintage trains. The museum's highlight allows you to step inside an authentic 1900s train cabin and explore the original platform, creating a tangible connection to Zambia's colonial-era transport history. From examining the intricate mechanics of bygone locomotives to understanding their role in shaping Southern Africa's development, this carefully preserved collection offers both technical insight and nostalgic charm.

The vulture feeding experience offers a rare opportunity to witness endangered white-backed, hooded and lappet-faced vultures gathering in remarkable numbers, a sight becoming increasingly uncommon across Zimbabwe. This conservation initiative also occasionally attracts majestic marabou storks to join the feast. You can observe this daily event free of charge, although donations are warmly encouraged to support the vital preservation of these magnificent birds. The experience begins with an informative briefing from an expert guide on the viewing deck, followed by the distribution of meat and bones collected from local hotels to the feeding area. The feeding typically occurs around 1pm, with the sudden arrival of dozens of vultures creating a dramatic and educational display of nature's clean-up crew in action. This unique program not only provides incredible photo opportunities but plays a crucial role in protecting Zimbabwe's vulnerable vulture populations.

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.