Anastasia Smith
The “adventure capital of Africa” is not without reason, where travellers to the charming town in southwestern Zambia are treated to delightful activities galore. Let yourself loose and enjoy everything fun, exciting and fascinating that is more than just the crown jewel Victoria Falls.
The one attraction that puts Livingstone on the map as Zambia’s gateway to Victoria Falls — the world-renowned waterfall needs no introduction whatsoever and is an unmissable destination on your Livingstone itinerary. Mosi-oa-Tunya, as the falls is known locally and translates to “the smoke that thunders”, is aptly named, for the wide curtain of water plunging down the descent creates one large cloud of mist, and you’ll hear the roar of the water long before you see it. The adventurous can take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the magnificent falls while the avid explorers can opt in for a guided tour on foot. It is certainly worth experiencing the falls from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, as each side treats you to a different vantage point with a different outlook, none second to each other.
Heading back from Victoria Falls, in the same vicinity is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, another one of Livingstone’s precious treasures that draw its vast crowds to the charming town. Wildlife experiences to be had at the sprawling nature reserve are incredible, to say the least, with a wide variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, elephants, birds, and buffalo calling the park home, but nothing compares to the experience of seeing rhinos in the wild up close — a reputation the national park very well deserves.
While visiting this village may not be amongst the most popular things to do in Zambia, Mukini Village is well worth a visit for anyone vacationing in Livingstone and the vicinity. Visitors to the old-world village are offered a glimpse into the local food, clothing, dance, and more, making for authentic experiences galore. After a delightful day at Mukini Village, retreat to one of the finest hotels or resorts in town, including the likes of the Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara.
As the sun goes down and the azure blue skies slowly fade away, nothing says a delightful evening in Livingstone like a sunset cruise along the magnificent Zambezi. Hop aboard a boat and meander down the unruffled waters of what is one of the most iconic rivers in Africa, as the serene nature along the riverbanks greets you with the golden sunset in the backdrop.
Ardent history buffs to Livingstone are also not left dissatisfied, as avid adventurers and nature lovers to the town obviously aren’t, as Livingstone Museum invites everyone for a dose of fascinating history. The nation’s largest and oldest museum has a lot to offer and takes you back in time to Zambia of centuries past.
