On the banks of the Zambezi River, the Royal Livingstone Hotel is named after the legendary explorer who named Zambia’s iconic waterfall in honor of his queen. Paying tribute to this glorious era, the hotel evokes Victorian elegance and colonial traditions in impeccable style, while offering unforgettable adventures.
The Royal Livingstone is a 5-star hotel situated on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. It stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River and is just a short walk to Victoria Falls. The Royal Livingstone consists of 17 colonial-style buildings and a main building with a restaurant and lounge. Each room accommodates two people.
LODGING
Each of the Royal Livingstone’s 173 luxury rooms and 4 suites features a private veranda with stunning Zambezi River views. The sights and sounds of river life can be soaked up as you laze in a hammock, enjoy a massage in a waterfront gazebo, or cool off in the pool. Sip refreshments in a lounge that displays the paintings of Sir David Livingstone. Partake in charming high tea rituals, and later enjoy sundowners on a deck overlooking Victoria Falls. Savor African and European fine dining, followed by nightcaps under the stars, making the Royal Livingstone the finest hotel in Livingstone.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE
Marvel at the majesty of Victoria Falls, explore traditional Zambian villages for a true slice of local life, or head out on a tour to experience the vast array of wildlife. Once you arrive at the resort, the AVANI in-house Activity Desk, staffed by highly experienced activity consultants, can help you schedule additional activities.
Victoria Falls
If you feel like exploring, experience the power and majesty of one of nature’s most impressive creations, Victoria Falls. Designated as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, Victoria Falls is a must-see. Feel the full force of one million liters of water cascading down the sheer face of the Falls every second. Enjoy the view as much as you like, as all guests of The Royal Livingstone are afforded unlimited access to this natural wonder during their stay. For an additional cost, you can also go on a scenic helicopter tour and witness the incredible power of the Falls from the air.
Sunset Cruise down the Zambezi River
Experience the majesty of the Zambezi River on an authentic riverboat cruise. Views of hippos and other wildlife against the backdrop of the setting sun on the Zambezi River make this experience a photographer’s dream. Feel like royalty as you embark on the same journey undertaken by King George and Queen Elizabeth in 1947. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres are served throughout the cruise. The timing of this cruise is typically set for your arrival day or first full day while in Victoria Falls.
Chobe Day Trip, Botswana
While staying at the Royal Livingstone, enjoy a day safari in the Chobe National Park in Botswana. Just a 90-minute drive from Victoria Falls, Chobe Game Lodge in Chobe National Park was the first lodge of its kind in Botswana and has evolved into an award-winning, fully ecotourism-certified luxury property. Situated on the game-rich riverfront, Chobe Game Lodge offers safaris on game-viewing boats or 4x4 game-drive vehicles. The Chobe Riverfront is home to the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, with over 40,000 elephants, along with giraffes, buffalo, lions, leopards, and even endangered wild dogs. The park is also home to more than 450 species of birds. Your safari at Chobe Game Lodge is typically scheduled on your last full day in Zambia and is one of the highlights of your experience. A lovely buffet lunch is served at the lodge, and you will return to your hotel around 6 pm.
ADDITIONAL VICTORIA FALLS ACTIVITIES
In addition to the scheduled activities, we can arrange additional activities at Victoria Falls for you in advance.
Lunch or High Tea at the Top of Victoria Falls
This activity offers a unique perspective of the Falls from the very top. Guests meet their guides by the deck at the Royal Livingstone Hotel and take a 5-minute boat ride to Livingstone Island. Guides will lead the group west of the island, offering a view of the main falls, where you can see the torrent of water gushing over the basalt precipice. Afterward, you can enjoy lunch or high tea. The entire experience lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Devil’s Pool
For those looking for an adrenaline rush, you can swim in the Devil’s Pool, a deep natural pool created by thousands of years of erosion. It sits on the lip of the Falls, offering a unique swimming experience with a natural barrier that prevents you from being swept over. It is not necessary to be an expert swimmer, as a safety rope is provided. If you choose to swim, guides will take your picture and video, allowing you to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Elephant Back Safaris
An unforgettable experience, the elephant back safari allows you to interact with elephants and enjoy a unique ride through the wilderness and riverine scenery. Along the river, hippos and crocodiles are common, and the guides are highly trained experts in the behavior of the elephants and the surrounding wildlife. The ride begins at Thorntree Lodge in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. After a safety briefing, guests will mount the elephants and ride through the bush, eventually ending at the Elephant Boma, where you can interact with the elephants.
Cheetah Walk
At Mukuni Big 5, a small reserve that breeds lions and cheetahs for release into protected areas, you will have the chance to walk alongside the world’s fastest land mammal—the cheetah. Guides will also exercise the cheetahs, allowing you to witness their incredible speed. You will have the opportunity to pet and even walk a cheetah on a leash. Contact us for age and height restrictions.
Flights of the Angels - Helicopter Flights over the Falls
To truly appreciate the grandeur of Victoria Falls, you must see it from the air. The helicopter flight gives you a clear perspective of the Falls, the Zambezi River, and the surrounding wildlife. The sight of the river, with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, along with the vast cascade of the Falls, is an unforgettable experience.
HELPFUL TIPS
What to Pack for Your Side Trip
Both men and women dress smart casual in the evenings in the hotel dining and lounge areas. While there are no strict regulations for the dress code, it is customary for women to cover their legs for modesty. However, women are welcome to wear shorts around the hotel grounds and on activity outings. If you plan to visit the town of Livingstone, it is advisable for women to wear capris, pants, or longer skirts. When the sun sets, the temperature drops quickly, so a warm jacket is recommended.
While on safari, it is suggested to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing in khaki, brown, green, and beige bush-toned colors. Pale or bright colors should be avoided, as animals can easily see these shades.
