Livingstone is the gateway to the Victoria Falls on the Zambian side, in the past it has played second fiddle to Zimbabwe but now offers a range of good accommodation and good transport links. When you see, and hear, the falls for the first time it is a spectacular experience and easy to see why this is a must see on so many peoples journeys.
Victoria Falls changes throughout the seasons and while there are some times that may be better than others to view the falls this is mostly a matter of opinion and the area is well worth a visit year round, not only for the falls but as either a place to start your trip and acclimatise or as a bit of a relaxation stop after a safari.
The water levels are highest around the end of March through April, this is just after the rains have ended up stream, the water levels then fall through the year to December when they start to rise again. The best time to view them is debatable, during high water the falls are at their most impressive and the local name Musi-o-Tunya (The smoke that thunders) becomes very easy to understand, however, there is an awful lot of spray and it can be difficult to get a good view of the falls themselves. During the lowest time the falls are less impressive but the view is clearer, therefore a perfect time is hard to recommend but no matter when you go we will give you plenty of tips about how to make the most of your time here.
Livingstone is a great destination year round and always makes for a fantastic start or end to a safari trip. The water levels of the falls changes quite dramatically with the seasons being at its highest towards the end of the rains in April and May and at its lowest in November before the new rains arrive.
Access to the falls couldn’t be easier, making it a great ad on to itineraries in Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and even South Africa. Flights from Johannesburg and Lusaka connect well with safari areas and a short road journey from Kasane in Botswana make it an easy ad on to the Delta, Chobe or even the Kalahari.
There is a huge variety of activities available in this area, from gentle sunset river cruises and helicopter flights above the falls to the more energetic river activities such as rafting or even a bungee jump. The falls is also the perfect place to slow the pace and simply relax for a few days.
Top Livingstone and Victoria Falls Properties
Waterberry
Livingstone, Zambia
Perfect for incredible value, a large number of included activities and lovely friendly service.
Tongabezi
Livingstone, Zambia
Perfect for both romance and families, with secluded cottages and family houses spread across the property, each with a unique position.
Royal Livingstone
Livingstone, Zambia
Perfect for a grand hotel with plenty of old world charm, bringing a feeling of the times of its namesake to life, also the closest property to the Falls.