Click on the picture to see more photos.

 

Text and Photos: Sergi Reboredo

For the seventh year running, Sun International's Royal Livingstone Hotel has been awarded the World Travel Award for Leading Hotel in Zambia. Leading global travel industry professionals nominate and then vote for their favourite travel destinations, airlines and other travel products. The award is regarded as the highest achievement in global leisure.
The 5-star colonial-styled luxury resort, built in the early 2000s, is situated in arguably one of the finest locations in Africa, on the banks of the Zambezi right on the cusp of the Victoria Falls. It attracts a wide range of visitors from around the world and is regarded as one of the 'must-sees' of Africa.
"We are obviously delighted to be voted as Zambia's leading hotel again," says General Manager Joanne Selby. "Winners of the World Travel Awards are regarded as very special brands that commit themselves to being the very best in every aspect of the customer experience."
This latest award follows the Royal Livingstone being recognised as one of the Best Hotels in the World according to the 18th annual edition of the Travel + Leisure's 2013 World's Best Awards. These two awards ensure that the resort remains clearly on the radar of the global travel and tourism industry.
The company also announced that Sun International Zambia had been shortlisted for the hotly contested World Responsible Travel Awards in the Best for Local Economy category.
The resort was designed around offering guests the very best of Africa but in a world heritage setting, with five star facilities and services. Some of these include a riverine Spa, fine dining, a wide range of adventurous outdoor activities and a river deck overlooking the Victoria Falls – or "Mosi-Oa-Tunya" as the locals call it – "The Smoke that Thunders". The resort offers a visit to Livingstone Island and an unforgettable swim in a natural pool right on the edge of Victoria Falls for adrenalin-seeking visitors.
"The Royal Livingstone offers a compelling combination of excitement, entertainment and experience – in other words, the complete package, and all of it contained in one of the most aesthetically magnificent settings in the world. The heritage of Victoria Falls sits within a virtual paradise of wildlife and offers up a range of experiences from angling to river cruises or game viewing."
The endangered white rhino can be viewed in the Mosi-oa-Tunya Zoological Park from 4x4 vehicles or on the back of elephants, all organized by the resort. The park is also home to hippo, crocodiles, buffalo, giraffe and a variety of buck.
For those for whom adrenalin sports are a must-do, visitors to the Royal Livingstone can also do white- water rafting down the Zambezi, jet-boating, horseback riding, rappelling, bungee jumping, abseiling, and micro-lighting.
In the past few years, the resort introduced dinner aboard the Royal Livingstone Express, a unique experience combining the luxury of the Royal Livingstone hotel with the bygone charm of rail travel. Passengers travel leisurely at sunset through the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park or onto the Victoria Falls bridge and enjoy a 5-course gourmet dinner in the middle of the African bush..

 

Zambia, the best links.

Barefeet Theatre

Barefeet is a creative arts and performance project staged, rehearsed and presented mainly, though not exclusively, by children on, or formerly on, the streets of Zambia.

http://www.barefeettheatre.org/ →

 

 Best of Zambia

General portal with lots of info on the country, heavy on the corporate side but also informative for the visitor.

http://thebestofzambia.com/ →

 

Livingstone

Only minutes away from the Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Livingstone is one of the most romantic destinations on the Africa continent. It is rich in culture and history, with a host of adventure and adrenaline experiences to choose from.

http://www.livingstonetourism.com/ →

 

Lusaka National Museum

The Lusaka National Museum has two galleries, one on the ground floor and the other on the upper floor of the museum building. The main exhibition space is on the upper gallery. The exhibition tells the story of Zambia’s history and development from its prehistoric past to its contemporary way of life. The lower gallery is a temporal exhibition space in which temporal exhibitions on contemporary issues on various themes are exhibited.

http://lusakanationalmuseum.org/ →

 

Manda Hill Mall

With the great number of stunning new local and international stores opening at Manda Hill Mall, it's the only place that will meet all your retail leisure needs. From top class restaurants to brilliant jewellery stores to fashion, electronics and tons more, Manda Hill mall offers something for everyone. Manda Hill Mall is the best location to indulge in your ideal shopping spree!

http://www.mandahillmall.com/ →

 

The David Livingstone

There is the lodge, but more interestingly, there is the Lady Livingstone. Lavishly decked out with every thought to a guest's personal comfort, the Lady Livingstone is a one hundred and forty four seater, three-decker river cruiser designed to accommodate groups and individuals.

http://www.thedavidlivingstone.com/ →

 

Zambia

Zambia's main drawcard is the Victoria Falls and this is quickly taken up by this website, though there is also plenty of information on game reserves and safaris as well as adventure tourism and the nation's main cities.

http://www.zambiatourism.com/ →

 

ZAMBIA IN YOUR POCKET

Publication date: March 2014
Language: Castilian
Price: 9,95 €

 

BEST GUIDE PDF

Children Zambia
Children Zambia: falls also for the kids

 

 

The Royal Livingstone Hotel prepares to celebrate
the bicentennial of David Livingstone
On March 19, the anniversary of the birth of legendary British explorer birthday
The atmosphere of the hotel will recall the days of David Livingstone, through an international festival of music, art and culture to be held in Zambia

The Royal Livingstone Hotel , property of great charm belonging to Sun International and located inside the Park Victoria Falls (Zambia ) , be prepared to hold large celebrations that will take place from 19 March 2013 to celebrate the 200th birthday of David Livingstone .

Considered one of the most important explorers of Africa, in addition to medical , David Livingstone was a missionary daring , fiery and driven by a proverbial philanthropic spirit .
Being one of the first Europeans to make a transcontinental journey across Africa, discovered and made ??known to the Western world, Victoria Falls, along the course of the Zambesi River , which he named the then Queen of England .
The falls , at that time only known locally as Mosi -oa- Tunya , the smoke that thunders , today are considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world and are Heritage .

The Royal Livingstone Hotel is ideal for reviving the Victorian atmosphere that marked the exploits of David Livingstone and to get sucked into the essence of an era of exciting adventures and discoveries legendary place . Being the closest resort about Victoria Falls , located in the Natural Park, the Royal Livingstone Hotel is the best given the privilege to enjoy the spectacle of unique character admired by Livingston when , looking at the falls for the first time , reflected in its Travelogue experienced emotion : " a wonderful view must have been referred by angels in flight ." All Royal Livingstone Hotel guests can travel on foot to the Falls, visit the Natural Park for free and get sucked into the same sense of wonder experienced disbelief that Dr. Livingstone .

Great agitation in Zambia because of the bicentennial of the Scottish explorer . Since March 19 , the birthday of David Livingstone , to November 16, 2013 , the day that first beheld Victoria Falls , Zambia is held in a wide range of activities to commemorate the adventures of the legendary British explorer . Particularly noteworthy is the David Livingstone Memorial Day, memory and remembrance to be held on May 1 , the day David Livingstone died in Zambia. It can be arranged from the Hotel Royal Livingstone Livingstone Memorial a guided view : erected in 1902 , the monument marks the spot where missionary explorer died and where he was buried his heart.

To live fully a year of celebrations and great cultural upheaval , the Royal Livingstone Hotel is the ideal place to enjoy an exclusive stay with Victorian flavor discovering the legendary Doctor Livingstone.

For more information on the schedule of events: www.livingstone2013.com

 

The Royal Livingstone Hotel on the bicentenary of David Livingstone

From Zambia behold the "top five" of activities not miss the time to remember the legendary British explorer

Madrid, March 1, 2013 - The Royal Livingstone Hotel , property of great charm belonging to Sun International located inside the Park Victoria Falls (Zambia ) , get ready to celebrate in the best possible way the bicentenary of the birth of David Livingstone . Being one of the first Europeans to make a transcontinental journey across Africa, discovered and made ??known to the Western world, Victoria Falls, to which he gave the name of the then Queen of England.
Being an ideal place to commemorate the Victorian atmosphere that framed the exploits of David Livingstone site, the Royal Livingstone Hotel offers an exceptional "top five" of activities to capture the essence of a legendary era of exciting adventures and discoveries , making the most of your stay in the heart of Africa.

The best way to play to be the Scottish explorer and experience his own astonishment at the time of discovery is a guided visit Livingstone Island . From the island , in fact, Livingstone first beheld in 1855 falls , reflecting the emotion experienced in his travelogue : " a wonderful view must have been referred by angels in flight ." Livingstone Island is located on the edge jump more than 100 meters from the Falls and is accessible since 1995. While David Livingstone when first contemplated at the time of discovery involved the discovery privilege it was to say that "no one can imagine the beauty that represents this view " , it is now possible to reach the island in a few minutes ride boat from the Royal Livingstone Hotel is an outstanding place to enjoy intimate breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea organized for only 16 people ... to live an experience in the water literally framework.

In order to see the breathtaking view of Victoria Falls from the perspective of the "angels in flight " , the Royal Livingstone Hotel offers its guests elHelicopter Flip, a helicopter tour flying over the Falls. It takes off from a small heliport immersed in the countryside to explore from above the Zambezi River to the falls and admire its majesty in fullness . The journey in the footsteps of David Livingstone from the Victoria Falls continues to the interior of the Royal Livingstone Hotel .

In fact, the atmosphere of the hotel perfectly captures the spirit of the Victorian era in which he lived the browser. In the lounge , ' by the fireplace , books, travel diaries , maps and telescopes give us account of his courageous life, old photographs placed on the porches of the cloister testify his legendary expeditions , finally , the great portrait of Doctor Livingstone located in the central hall of the Hotel Royal Livingstone speaks of the importance of one of the pioneers of the modern era.

To taste the flavor of the Victorian era, the Royal Livingstone Hotel proposes a fourth unforgettable experience aboard the Royal Livingstone Express, a steam train that runs through the nineteenth century the old railway track during 2013 Mulobezi and celebrated with special rates and menus occasion for its fifth year of operation. It starts at sunset, a snack in the open car , which overlooks the landscape of the places traveled by the Scottish explorer , and then continues with a five-course dinner prepared by the chef of Sun International in elegant surroundings is tasted and retro .

Finally, to complete the journey in the footsteps of David Livingstone is possible to arrange a visit to the Livingstone Museum , a small museum containing colonial extraordinary collection of objects : from his shirt to the portfolio of work, from the book of religious songs to a large collection of book on archeology and some newspapers of David Livingstone .
Thus, the Royal Livingstone Hotel is the ideal place to live fully a year of celebrations and great cultural upheaval destination , being the perfect place to enjoy an exclusive stay with Victorian flavor discovering the legendary Doctor Livingstone site .

Trip Ideas
Sun International offers a special " Doctor Livingstone, I presume ... " :
Validity period : March to November 2013
Special rate for 3 nights ( 30% discount included) in a room Luxury Room with full English breakfast and a visit to Livingstone Island and Breakfast (from July to April ) : € 660.00 per person.

Official Website : www.suninternational.com
Sun International, active since 1977 and listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange , is the largest group of hoteliers and travel services on the African continent and is a leader in the hospitality industry in Southern Africa with a total of 27 hotels and resorts in South Africa , Zambia, Botswana , Namibia , Lesotho , Swaziland and Nigeria. Sun International guarantees exclusive stay in luxurious care to detail, where guests enjoy personalized and thoughtful service in unique and extraordinarily beautiful natural environments.
In 2013 Sun International expanding its own portfolio of hotels in South Africa with the opening of The Maslow Hotel, 4 * superior in Johannesburg ( Sandton ) , urban chic hotel ideal for those traveling on business and looking for style , luxury and practical items , and the Boardwalk Hotel , 5 * in Port Elizabeth, posing an unprecedented combination of Victorian and modern atmosphere at the end of the Garden Route

 

Pure wellness in the Royal Livingstone Hotel
The Royal Spa presents exclusive beauty rituals on the banks of the Zambezi River ( Victoria Falls, Zambia)

The fascinating Royal Spa Royal Livingstone Hotel is the boutonniere and the diamond tip of proposed welfare Sun International. An outdoor spa where treatments are performed in elegant gazebos along the banks of the Zambezi River in a discreet corner of the garden of the hotel, just steps away from the Victoria Falls (Zambia ) .
In total privacy gazebo overlooking the river relaxing massages and exclusive spa treatments able to regenerate body and mind to promote an authentic experience of holistic wellness are made. A magical place that proposes unique treatments inspired by the tradition of the oldest rituals of African beauty.

Unforgettable ceremonial treatment " Lwiindi " full beauty ritual for the whole body , once reserved for princesses of African tribes before their wedding . Is sprayed on the body a veil of thermal water and then the wise hands of the therapist proceeds with gentle massage on the face and a body scrub . Then the skin with nourishing milk compresses invigorated . The ceremony concludes with a fascinating hot stone massage to remove tension from the body. (90 min - . € 145.00 ) .

Complementing the total immersion in the tradition of African beauty, other wellness treatments at the Royal Spa at the Royal Livingstone Hotel include:

Facial Pride of Zambia
A ritual fail active aging properties Babor thermophilus , a protein substance that energy rejuvenates skin cells, and the wonderful properties of rose quartz. The skin regenerates at its deepest layers and remains bright and vital for a long period of time .
(90 min - . € 180.00 ) .

massage Ukuchina
One of the oldest massage inspired by the tradition of Central Africa, considered a unique method to detoxify the body , boost the immune system and combat stress, tension and skin irritations .
(90 min - . € 160.00 )

The Royal Spa Royal Livingstone Hotel back to life in a unique and unforgettable , the oldest African ceremonial and fascinating beauty, which will result in a summer 2013 pure being.

Offer: information and contact
Shelf life : 2013 . Special rate for four nights at the Royal Livingstone Hotel , Victoria Falls - Zambia , Luxury Room in a room with full English breakfast : € 730.00 per person ( 25 % discount already included)

 

 

Zambia: the top five essential activities at Victoria Falls
From the Royal Livingstone Hotel (Zambia ) reach the tips to make the most
Heart of Africa

The Victoria Falls are one of the natural wonders of the world , declared World Heritage by UNESCO : " Zambia is to the experts, one of the emerging destinations in Africa and Victoria Falls , along with the nearby town of Livingstone , are an ideal starting point for a journey of exploration into the heart of Africa arrival , "says Lidia Martinuzzi , director of marketing and sales for southern Europe of Sun International, the prestigious hotel chain that prides itself being the owner of the only resort located on a privileged position, in fact the closest to the Victoria Falls, in the Natural Park .

But what are the top five , experiences more advised to make the most of a stay in Victoria Falls ?
Reveals us Giulio Togni , director of Royal Livingstone Hotel, an exclusive haven of tranquility colonial atmosphere on the banks of the Zambezi River , a few meters from the large waterfall.

" Most of our guests does not miss the opportunity to see the Falls from above : a picture truly overwhelming ," explains Giulio. Flip the Helicopter is a helicopter tour that flies over the Falls. It takes off from a small heliport immersed in nature (maximum 4 passengers per trip ) to explore from above the Zambezi River to the falls and admire its majesty in fullness .

The visit to the Livingstone Island , possible July to April is the best way to experience the falls almost " from within." The Livingstone island, in fact , is a small island located on the edge of the jump, just over 100 meters from the falls in the middle of the Zambezi River. Practicable since 1995 , can be reached in few minutes by boat from the Royal Livingstone Hotel. Only 16 people , for a walk to the water experience ... literally on the islet breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea is organized. The island Livingstone is also a good starting point for the more adventurous who want to reach out to swim the famous Devil 's Pool, Devil's Pool , a natural pool situated right on the top of the falls and protected from the strongest currents, where they can dive and cool immersed in the waters of the Zambezi . An experience reserved for experienced swimmers , as to achieve the objective must swim along a small stretch zigzag course indicated by the guide to avoid the river currents .

After a day of adventure and nature, the time of greatest charm is given in the early afternoon with the "gin and tonic at sunset " aperitif on the terrace of the Royal Livingstone Hotel, floating wooden platform on the Zambezi River, from which enjoy the amazing spectacle of the fiery sunset , just opposite. Guests can not help but observe a respectful silence on such a majestic view and also captivated by the colors , smells and sounds of the nature that brings gentle breeze.

" Many travelers , especially Spanish , which greatly enjoy the experience aboard the Royal Livingstone Express: we do not know whether because of the magical atmosphere surrounding the old steam train , restored and put back into operation , which makes looks like a trip back in time to 1800 . Or whether because of the gourmet dinner is served on board, ... the fact is that the Spanish are always excited , "says Giulio. The Royal Livingstone Express steam train is a nineteenth century which runs along the old railway line Mulobezi and has relocated recently run to allow visitors to live a little African magic of the past . It starts at sunset, a snack in the open car , which overlooks the landscape with dark colors is tasted , and then continues with a five-course dinner prepared by the chef of Sun International in an elegant and retro .

Definitely a moment of wellness for the body and spirit which sport will stay in the original Royal Livingstone Hotel spa . In total privacy of a gazebo by the banks of the Zambezi River in a discreet corner of the garden , massage wellness by taking only company the sound of the river flowing and the falls in the distance are made. For total immersion in the traditions of Zambia can choose the ceremonial treatment " Lwiindi " full beauty ritual for the whole body in times reserved for the princesses before her wedding .

Here then are the top five , the five truly essential activities in Victoria Falls, although natural wonders to explore and activities to experience , whether for relaxation, sports or involving an adrenaline rush , are innumerable , all discovered

 

 

In Zambia with Butler

Sun International presents the Royal Livingstone Hotel Butlers
( Victoria Falls ) , the only one in Zambia with butler service

Figures once able to solve situations and assist guests with the utmost care . Sun International is pleased to introduce the new generation of stewards of the Royal Livingstone Hotel , Zambia alone with butler service . Great knowledge about the area , generous in their advice and rigorous in all aspects of service, diligent , discreet , trustworthy . The stewards are the best accessories to guests to enjoy a better stay at Victoria Falls .

Have you entered a monkey poking around in the room? Can you have soaked the only wearing trekking shoes in your suitcase for the ride over the falls ? Can you have stained clothes? Are you searching for a newborn giraffe and pets hotel to photograph ? Have you bought too much and think it should send home a fantastic craft but too bulky object ? Want to organize an original dinner surprise your partner? Want to come back from a safari and meet a hot bath prepared with your favorite scent , candles and a bathrobe ?
These are just some of the many situations of everyday life where the personal butler can help, quickly and with undivided attention , constantly following , but not hoard, own guests from arrival to departure.

" The butler service is very popular among our guests , especially among the Spaniards ," says Lidia Martinuzzi , Director of Sales & Marketing of Sun International . " The most valued services are the most traditional , and how to unpack or stretch clothing, tasks that guests will be fought willingly , especially in traveling trips with frequent travel . Also, find a cozy room with a hot bath and ready at the right time is another service that undoubtedly makes the guest feel special. "

Butler plays a key role in providing a high level of service, which is characterized by a careful customization element that really makes a difference . For this reason , training courses taught by a veteran of international reputation in the industry , Josephine Ive, so that the stewards are ready to serve customers in all types of situations, you know organized to respond to the demands more complicated and are proud to offer a completely different service. Josephine Ive, who teaches courses for stewards since 1975 , lives in Australia , but was born in England. The daughter of a butler and a maid , Josephine has followed the footsteps of his father and has worked for the British Royal Family , the service of Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother , in addition to the English judges in the Supreme Court. Josephine is the bestselling author of five dedicated to "service" and regular contributor to lifestyle magazines in Europe , USA and Australia .
With Josephine Butler learners learn the rules of the " label " as well as communication and relationships, administrative formalities , office work organization , supervision and control room , presentation of each room before the arrival of the guests requested personalization, organization and logistics transfers , guest service in relation to the trip ( flight reconfirmation , etc. . ) and various bureaucratic work .

The main expectation of the guests over Butler is service-connected , traditionally oriented and unpacking suitcases , sewing , stretch and make the knot to tie and shoe shine .
Depending on requirements, also organizes private parties , is responsible for the delivery of the newspaper in the room , as well as correspondence , gifts and bouquets.

 

 

 

Captions

001- CR2399 : Aerial views of the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls present a spectacular sight of awe -inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border Between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It was Described by the Kololo tribe living in the area in the 1800 's as ' Mosi -oa- Tunya ' - 'The Smoke That Thunders ' . In more modern terms Victoria Falls is Known as the greatest curtain of falling water in the world . Columns of spray can be seen from miles away as, at the height of the rainy season , more than five hundred million cubic meters of water per minute plummet over the edge, over a width of nearly two kilometers , into a gorge over one hundred meters below. The wide , basalt cliff over the falls Which thunder , transforms the Zambezi from a placid river into a ferocious torrent cutting through a series of dramatic gorges .
Facing the Falls is another sheer wall of basalt , rising to the same height , and capped by mist -soaked rain forest . A path along the edge of the forest Provides the visitor prepared to brave the tremendous spray , With an unparalleled series of views of the Falls.
One special vantage point is across the Knife - Edge Bridge, where visitors can Have the finest view of the Eastern Cataract and the Main Falls as well as the Boiling Pot where the river turns and heads down the Batoka Gorge. Other vantage points include the Falls Bridge and the Lookout Tree , Both of Which command panoramic views across the Main Falls.

002- CR1392 : Local tourists visit the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is a town in the western portion of Zimbabwe , across the border from Livingstone , Zambia, and near Botswana. The town lies Immediately next to the falls . They are the major attraction , but popular this tourist destination offers adventure seekers and sightseers Both plenty of Opportunities for a longer stay .
Tourist numbers are now back to historical levels , With many package tour operators adding Vic Falls back to Their itineraries , and this is Easily Zimbabwe 's busiest tourist destination . In response , there is a lot of to cartelisation and price fixing , With prices for accommodation and activities suspiciously high , even though the hotels are not full and activity operators not operating at full capacity . This destination is now Considerably more expensive than other destinations in Zimbabwe. Mosikalamosikala (meaning " The Smoke That Thunders " ) , Commonly Known as Victoria Falls, is one of the most amazing sights in the world : twice as tall as Niagara Falls and several times longer. Although not the highest , the widest or the greatest volume of water , They have the largest sheet of water for any fall in the world and are a sight not to be missed . It took Thousands of years of erosion for Victoria Falls to and where it appears as it does now . Mosi -oa- Tunya , or " the smoke That thunders " Became Known to the western world as Victoria Falls after David Livingstone first only in September eyes on this astonishing Natural wonder in 1855 , a heartbeat ago in geological time .
003- CR1346 : Local tourists visit the Victoria Falls. These Are Among The most spectacular waterfalls in the world . The Zambezi River , que is more than 2 km wide at this point , plunges noisily down a series of basalt gorges and raises an iridescent mist That can be seen more than 20 km away . The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls is the world 's greatest sheet of falling water and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation with outstanding beauty Processes Attributed to the falls ie the spray , mist and rainbows . This transboundary property extends over Comprises 3779 and 6860 has been of the Mosi -oa- Tunya National Park ( Zambia) , 2340 has been of Victoria Falls National Park ( Zimbabwe) , has 741 of the riverine strip of Zambezi National Park ( Zimbabwe). A riverine strip of the Zambezi National Park Extending 9 km west along the right bank of the Zambezi and islands in the river are all Within the park as far as Palm Islands and Kandahar , With the Victoria Falls being one of the major attractions . The waterfall stands at an altitude of about 915 m above mean sea level ( amsl ) and spans to 1708 m wide acerca With An average depth of 100 m and the deepest point being 108 m . Sprays From this giant waterfall can be seen from a distance of 30 km from the road Lusaka , Zambia and 50 km road from Bulawayo , Zimbabwe. Basalts Have Been cut a river system by producing a series of gorges eightspectacular That serve as breeding sites for four species of endangered birds . The basalts of the Victoria Falls World Heritage property are layered Unlike Those of the Giants Causeway World Heritage site Which are upright and columnar .
CR2105 - 004 : A couple Takes photos in Victoria Falls. Behind the Bridge Between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Victoria Falls Bridge crosses the Zambezi River just below the Victoria Falls and is built over the Second Gorge of the falls . As the river is the border Between Zimbabwe and Zambia , the bridge links the two country clubs and has border posts on the Approaches to both ends , at the towns of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Livingstone , Zambia. The bridge was the brainchild of Cecil Rhodes , part of his grand and unfulfilled Cape to Cairo railway scheme , even though I have never visited the falls and died before construction of the bridge began. Recorded as Rhodes is instructing the engineers to " build the bridge across the Zambezi where the trains , Peak Gust pass, will catch the spray of the Falls ." It was designed by George Anthony Hobson of consultants Sir Douglas Fox and Partners, is not as Stated Often , Sir Ralph Freeman, the same engineer who Contributed to the design of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the time of the design of the Victoria Falls Bridge, Freeman was an assistant in the firm who, in pre -computer days Those , was calculating stresses . The bridge was constructed in England by the Cleveland Bridge & Engineering Company, before being shipped to the Mozambique port of Beira and then Transported on the newly constructed railway to the Victoria Falls. It took just 14 months to construct and was completed in 1905. The bridge was officially opened by Professor George Darwin, son of Charles Darwin and President of the British Association ( now the Royal Society ) on 12 September 1905. [4 ] The American Society of Civil Engineers lists the bridge as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark . The Victoria Falls Bridge did not bring the first train or the first railway to Zambia. To push on with construction of the railway north as fast as possible , Cecil Rhodes Livingstone insisted That the Kalomo line to be laid before the bridge was finished. Then a locomotive was Conveyed in pieces across the gorge by the temporary electronic cableway used for the transportation of the bridge materials and nicknamed the ' Blondin ' by the construction engineers . The locomotive was re -assembled and Entered service months before the bridge was complete.
005- CR2135 : Views of the Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls are one of the world 's most spectacular plunges . The 2km ( 1.2mi ) wide Zambezi River - drops more than 100m ( 328ft) into a steeply - walled gorge . The Zambian side of Victoria Falls has long played second fiddle to its better -known Zimbabwean counterpart , but next door means trouble Livingstone is positively booming . For close- up views of the Eastern Cataract , nothing beats the hair-raising ( and hair -wetting ) walk across the footbridge , through swirling clouds of mist , to a sheer buttress called the Knife Edge. If the water is low and the wind Favourable , you'll be Treated to a magnificent view of the falls and the yawning abyss below the Zambezi Bridge. Adrenaline junkies can indulge in white -water rafting, abseiling , river -boating , jet -boating , bungee jumping and a host of airborne activities . At Un certain times of year it is even possible to visit Livingstone Island and swim at the very edge of the Falls, though sadly it's no longer free . Do not get so caught up with activities That You miss one of The most spectacular waterfalls in the world . The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world , it is 1,708 m wide and with up to 500 million liters per minute descending at 61 m ( Devil's Cataract ), 83 m (Main Falls ) 99 m ( Rainbow Falls ) , 98 m (Eastern Cataract ) . Eight spectacular gorges of igneous origin (ie Comprising basalts ) and several islands in the core zone serve as breeding sites for four endangered and migratory bird species , : such as the Taita Falcon and Black Eagle . The riverine ' rainforest ' Within the waterfall splash zone is a fragile ecosystem of discontinuous forest on sandy alluvium , dependent upon maintenance of high humidity and abundant water from the spray Resulting plume of about 500 m (at maximum height) That can be seen from a distance of 50 km and 30 km from Bulawayo and Lusaka roads Respectively . A direct frontage viewing of the falls is possible from Both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
006- CR2140 : Local tourists visit the Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls constitutes one of The most spectacular nature wonders of the world . The Local people call it " Mosi -oa- Tunya " - the smoke That thunders and the Falls are remarkable . There is a magic acerca them Manifested in the towering column of spray When the river is high , the thunder of the falling water , the terrifying abyss and tranquil lagoons upstream in Which hippo and deadly crocodiles lurk . The Victoria falls is 1 708 meters wide , making it the largest curtain of water in the world . It drops Between 90m and 107m into the Zambezi Gorge and an average of 550,000 cubic meters of water plummet over the edge every minute . Remarkably preserved in its native state , Victoria falls inspires visitors as much today as it did David Livingstone in the 1860's. The falls and the surrounding area Have Been Declared National Parks and a World Heritage Site, Malthus preserving the area from excessive commercialization . The river 's annual flood season is February to May with a peak in April . The spray from the falls rises to a height Typically of over 400 meters ( 1,300 ft), and sometimes even twice as high , and is visible from up to 50 km ( 30 miles) away . During the flood season , however it , it is impossible to see the foot of the falls and Most of its face , and the walks along the cliff opposite it are in a constant shower and shrouded in mist . Close to the edge of the cliff , spray shoots upward like inverted rain , Especially at Zambia 's Knife -Edge Bridge. As the dry season Takes effect , the islets on the crest Become wider and more multitude numerous , and in September to January up to half of the rocky face of the falls May Become dry and the bottom of the First Gorge can be seen along Most of its length . The minimum flow , que Occurs in November, is around a tenth of the April figure.
007- CR2220 : Views of the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is one of two World Heritage Sites on the Zambezi River . Victoria Falls Our local office is perfect for managing your bookings to one of the Most Celebrated Natural wonders of the world . Plan your visit on Victoria Falls Safari Network. The Zambezi River flows broad and placid to the brink of a 1700 mm wide basalt lip before taking a headlong plunge 100 meter into the thunderous , frothy chasm of the Batoka Gorge below. Its the world 's largest sheet of falling water . Victoria Falls and Livingstone on Either side of the Fall , Provide easy access to the national parks in Zimbabwe , Botswana , Zambia or Namibia as well as South Africa , for regulating safaris. The Associated Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls and steep sided gorges eight Have Been Formed through the waterfall changing positions over a geological time scale . The gorges are an outstanding example of river capture and the erosive forces of the water still continue to sculpture the hard basalts . These gorges take a zigzag course of a distance of about 150 km along the Zambezi River below the falls . Seven previous waterfalls occupied the seven gorges below the present falls, and the Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe is the starting point for cutting back to a new waterfall . In Addition, an aerial view of the falls waterfall shows possible future positions . Upstream are a spectacular series of riverine islands Formed During The Ongoing geological and geomorphological processes. The property is Characterized by banded ancient lava flow of basalt , sandstone and chalcedony Kalahari Which out of stone artefacts of Homo habilis dating three million years , stone tools of the middle Stone Age and weapons , adornments and digging tools of the late Stone Age That following have hunter - gatherers by occupation .
008- CR3099 : Around Victoria Falls you can walk .
Guided Tour of the Victoria Falls. To discover how the Falls Were Formed and what the local customs and traditions surround them it is well worth taking a guided tour. These tours are extremely informative and end with a visit to the Local art and crafts center. May be Conducted Tours from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River and last for 1 ½ hours and 2 hours in Zambia in Zimbabwe
Mists of Time Tour. This tour is a Half Day Tour That Focuses on Africa 's Historical and Cultural Legacy . You will be Accompanied by Russell Gammon , a Specialist guide with 19 years experience. Russell 's family has-been living in Africa since 1870 and he is a Specialist in the field of African Heritage and a wonderful Raconteur and Master Story Teller. This Tour is Aimed at giving our unique insight into visitor to Africa 's past, present and future . You will be collected from the Royal Livingstone Hotel reception at 08:30 by Russell Gammon , your Specialist Guide for the morning . This Half Day tour will include a visit to the Victoria Falls as well as a visit to the near by African Village where you will be shown around the premises by residents . Along the way Russell will regale stories of You With Earlier Explorers , Indigenous People , Adventurers , Missionaries and other colorful characters This Way That have passed in time . His unique understanding of Africa combined With His excellent storytelling make him a fascinating and entertaining companion . During the course of the morning you will gain a unique insight into Africa 's past and present as the Russell Brings to life many people's and culture 's that have shaped the destiny of this extraordinary continent . Your tour will end at 12:30 pm When you will be dropped back at the Royal Livingstone reception .
009- CR2080 : Views of Victoria Falls. Behind , the Bridge Between Zambia and Zimbabwe. For more than 50 years the bridge was crossed by passenger trains Regularly as part of the main route Between the Northern Rhodesia then , southern Africa and Europe . Freight trains Carried mainly copper ore ( later , copper ingots ) and timber out of Zambia , and coal into the country . The age of the bridge and maintenance problems have led to traffic restrictions at times. Trains cross at less than walking pace and trucks Were limited to 30 t, necessitating heavier trucks to make a long diversion via the Kazungula Ferry or Chirundu Bridge. The limit was raised after repairs in 2006 , but more major rehabilitation or construction of a new bridge has-been aired . During the Rhodesian Bush War UDI crisis, and the bridge was closed faq frequently ( and Have Not Regular passenger services resumed successfully ) . In 1975 , the bridge was the site of unsuccessful peace talks When the parties met in a train carriage poised above the gorge for nine and a half hours . In 1980 road freight services resumed and continued without interruption and Have except for maintenance. Today one of the Victoria Falls Bridge 's main attraction are historical guided tours focusing on the construction of the bridge and Which include a walking tour under the main deck . On the Zambian side there is a small museum about the bridge Which is free to enter and contains coffee selling refreshments . Also located on the bridge is the Shearwater 111 meters ( 364 ft) including a bungee jump bungee swing and zip -line . Concerns acerca safety of the attraction Were raised in late 2011 after the bungee cord snapped 's and a young Australian woman fell 24 meters ( 79 ft ) into the fast flowing river with many crocodiles . The bridge was originally Referred to as the Great Zambezi or Zambesi bridge, later becoming Known as the Victoria Falls Bridge.
010- CR0332 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls & watch hippo pods sometimes elephants crossing the Zambezi . Guests are collected from Their hotel or lodge at 15:30 in winter and 16:00 hrs in the summer months and transferred is to the jetty site . Cruise departures at 16:00 hrs in winter and 16:30 in summer . Following this sunset cruise , you will be transferred is back to your hotel Between 18:30 hrs and 19:00 hrs (winter and summer Respectively ) . At the jetty side guests are met by a Traditional African Band before signing the Standard Indemnity Form. After a safety briefing and talk guests board the safari boat . Heading off downstream , meandering through the islands , the guides will talk to you and describe the fauna and wildlife as well as the prolific bird life and wildlife . Bird enthusiasts will be rewarded by sightings : such as the African Finfoot , Open -billed Storks , Yellow -billed Storks and Sacred Ibis . The cruise is at a slow pace Conducted for you to enjoy the relaxed ambience and the beauty of the mighty Zambezi river. Snacks and drinks are available During the trip . The Zambezi River Safari lasts about 2 hours . At the end of the safari guests are transferred is back to Their hotel / lodge .
011- CR0340 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . Take a sunset cruise down the mighty Zambezi River . This Sundowner Cruise Takes you down the Zambezi River for a beautiful journey! . The Zambezi Sunset River cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the River . You May Have the opportunity to see a variety of game , including hippo , crocodile , elephant and sometimes even rhino in Their home environment , as well as enjoy the many different bird species . The Sunset cruise is very popular and includes finger snacks, beer , wine , champagne and soft drinks . There are great photo opportunities against often- spectacular African sunsets . The cruise lasts for approximately two hours .
012- CR2209 : Sunset in the Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls or Mosi -oa- Tunya ( Tokaleya Tonga: Smoke That Thunders the , the ' i ' is silent ) is a waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River Between the countries country of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are Believed to be the largest in the world in terms of the volume of water passes through That . These ancient and truly spectacular Falls Were first made ??Known to the outside world in 1855 by Scottish explorer extraordinaire , David Livingstone . Livingstone Had been attempting to find a route to the East Coast of the African continent . Travelling south east from Luanda to Sesheke Most 've Encountered this magnificent waterfall and renamed it the Victoria Falls after the British Monarch , Queen Victoria. Livingstone was led to the Falls by the Makalolo tribes people in a dug- out canoe . During the Jurassic Period ( 150-200 million years ago) , volcanic activity resulted in thick basalt deposits covering large parts of Southern Africa . As the cooled and solidified washed , cracks Appeared in the hard basalt crust , que Were filled with clay and lime . Erosion and the course of the mighty Zambezi River cut through softer materials These , forming the first of a series of waterfalls . Over At least 2000 years , the falls have receded 8km upstream , as the Zambezi carved its way through seven gorges . This geological history can be seen in the dark basalt in the series of rocky gorges below the falls . It is Believed That the Devil's Cataract , que is presently Book early point of Victoria Falls, will Eventually Become the next gorge as the river cut its way Continues to back upstream . Essentially , the river falls into a gorge Directly in front of the falls , and then flows through a narrow cutting . You can view the falls straight on from across the gorge .
013- CR0305 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Guests are met by staff from the African Queen Cruise boat and driven to the ' Royal Landing' on the Zambezi River jetty for boarding . The African Queen meanders slowly upstream along the length of the Mosi - oa - Tunya National Park looking for game on the way . A number of animals and a host of bird species can be viewed from comfortable chairs on cool wooden decks. Excellent hot and cold snacks are served on board and the bar is well stocked With Spirits , good wines , beers and soft drinks . Snacks and drinks are included in the price and served THROUGHOUT the cruise by professional , friendly waiters making the whole experience probably the most luxurious cruise on the river .
014- CR0383 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Relax and enjoy our African Sunsets from our upmarket cruise boats ... " A river of enchantment and magical colors bursting in the sky creating nature's own masterpiece ," is the only way to describe the African Sunset on the Mighty Zambezi . Cruise along the banks of the river , and view the spectacular scenery That is nature's own sanctuary , and home to the " laughing hippos " , the " singing birds" and the " snapping crocodiles " , as you sip on your drink and indulge on mouthwatering snacks . Enjoy the hospitality of our professional guide and Captain as you relax and enjoy the delicious snacks and chilled refreshments . See the "smoke That thunders " as you gently cruise the upper Zambezi River . Enjoy the such myths and legends as our guide shares of the Local tribes . Experience the Zambezi River as did David Livingstone and travel through waters eleven JourneyEd by him on his way to the Victoria Falls. Observe the aquatic bird life and other resident or migratory species . May you be fortunate enough to witness the great African elephant swimming from island to island, grazing or dusting Themselves on the riverbanks . The Zambezi sunset is a highlight of the trip and captivates your magical experience on the Zambezi River .
015- CR0320 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . Victoria Falls is famous for its sunset booze cruises and this is a "must do " experience . But you do not have to be an alcoholic drinker to enjoy the experience of being on Southern Africa 's largest river. You are Un certain to see hippo and crocs and possibly elephant During the excursions , que acerca last two hours on average . During the dry season , elephants Often swim to the islands to feed and there are a couple of pachyderms That have taken up full-time residence on the island of Kalunda opposite the jetty on the Zimbabwean side of the river . Generally , tour operators arrange for you to be picked up from the hotel , lodge or B & B, and driven to one of the many launch sites along the western bank of the Zambezi . From the Zimbabwe side , the ride out to the boarding points varies Depending on where you are staying and how many pick- ups Have to make the drivers , but generally the wait is not more than 10 to 15 minutes . From the Zambian side , boats depart from docks to outstretch hotel.
016- CR0312 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . This is the " Lady Livingstone " boat . The newly built lady Livingstone famously known as "The Jewel of the Zambezi " has a capacity of 144 pax . Guests are met at Their respective hotels / Lodges and transferred is to the David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa. The cruise Takes place along the river boundary of the Mosi -Oa- Tunya National Park, the total cruise time is approximately 2 hours . During the cruise , clients are likely to see hippos , crocodile and some good birdlife . Possible other game sightings are elephant , giraffe , buffalo and buck . An experienced guide accompanies each cruise and has good knowledge on the wildlife and local history of the area. Excellent hot and cold snacks are served on board and the bar is well stocked With Spirits , good wines , beers and soft drinks . Snacks and drinks are included in the price and served THROUGHOUT the cruise . Pick up times are 16h00 in summer ( April to August ) and 15h30 in winter (May to July ) . The Waterfront Operates two cruise boats - the "MV Makumbi " and the "MV Mambushi " . As well as our regularly sunset cruises , the boats are also available for private functions and can be booked on an exclusive basis on request . The cruise is along the river boundary of the Mosi -Oa- Tunya National Park, around Siloka Island and back to the Waterfront jetty . From the boat, sightings of wildlife coming down to the river to drink are common . Also There are abundant hippos , crocodiles and birdlife . An experienced guide accompanies each cruise and has good knowledge on the wildlife and local history of the area.
017- CR0269 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . The sunset boat cruises vary in size - from private boats That Essentially take 8 to 10 people to large party boats That can take 120 or more . When booking , ask the name of the boat and its size if you have a specific group size in mind or want a larger or smaller boat experience. Also , some boats are more luxurious than others - although some of the older , more rustic charm boats have Their Own . The experience varies tremendously ACCORDING to the number of people and who you are sharing the sundowner cruise with, you and every boat has its own unique character . The cruise begins with a safety briefing and then shortly after launching , Typically , journeys up river towards the Zambezi National Park. There are plenty of crocodiles and hippos to be seen and the bird life is quite spectacular . Watch for elephants along the banks or , if you are extremely lucky , or snorkelling elephants swimming across the river . Usually the boats turn back down river and continue for several kilometers towards Palm Island - Often meandering in and out of the islands and channels . At this point, you can look down river towards the Falls and witness the mist rising from them. These big boats can not go sunset cruise Beyond This Point as the river is too swift and there are a number of rocks . Just before sunset , the boats turn and head back Usually up river , stopping a kilometer or so before the landing point to catch the last rays of the dying sun . Drinks are free and snacks are Typically Usually served . Booking a cruise is essential and we recommend - time permitting - doing two cruises in two different sized boats , as each experience is very different.
018- CR0210 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . This is the " Lady Livingstone " boat . On the Zambezi river in Victoria Falls there is many different types of crises to choose from , weather it is a early morning sunrise breakfast cruise or cruise , It could be a lunch or dinner cruise , or even just a chilled booze cruise . There is something for everyone . Guests are picked up from Their hotel in Victoria Falls and transferred is to the boat jetty . On arrival guests are welcomed onto the boat . Upon seating, you will be Given a safety briefing and a brief history of the river on the outset of the trip . You then cruise on the Zambezi River downstream towards the Falls down to Palm Island before turning around and cruising back upstream . You will get to view hippos , crocodiles as well as an abundance of birdlife . Whilst on the cruise the guests are offered Preferred drinks from the fully stocked bar and a range of mouth watering snacks. After watching the sun set over the river , you will cruise back downstream to the jetty . After disembarking , you will be transferred is back to your hotel.
019- CR0158 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . Sunset cruises are a popular pastime in this part of the world , and there's something extremely pleasant acerca enjoying a beverage while watching hippos cavort in the Zambezi under a spectacular sunset . Cruises can be Organized through the various travel agencies around town in Both Livingstone and Victoria Falls. My favorite from the Zimbabwe side is Ilala Lodge 's Ra- Ikane . A lovely intimate cruising experience with excellent food . On the Zambia side I enjoyed the Lady Livingstone . For less of s sunset cruise , more of a booze cruise , opt for the cheaper , larger boats . The Victoria Falls lie in between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa . The falls are part of two national parks , Mosi -oa- Tunya National Park in Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe.
The Victoria Falls are just over 1 mile wide (1.7 km ) and 355 feet ( 108 m ) high . During the wet season over 500 million liters (19 million cubic feet) of water plummets over the edge into the Zambezi River . This incredible amount of water Generates a huge amount of spray Which shoots 1000 feet into the sky and can be seen 30 miles away , HENCE the name Mosi -oa- Tunya (Smoke That thunders ) . The unique geography of the falls means you can watch them face -on and get to enjoy the full force of the spray , noise and spectacular rainbows That are always present . The best time to view the Victoria Falls During The rainy season is from March to May, When They are at Their Most impressive . Up until 10 years ago acerca Zimbabwe was by the far the Most popular country to visit the Victoria Falls from . There are plenty of luxury hotels and the infrastructure is good. You can walk to the falls from town along well marked paths and the view is Certainly the best from this side Because you can stand opposite the falls and see them head on . But , the political situation in Zimbabwe has meant That tourists are opting to visit the falls from the Zambian side . In 2006 , occupancy on the Zimbabwean side hovered at around 30 % hotel , while the Zambian side was at near -capacity . As of 2011 , Zimbabwe 's lodges are filling up , running smoothly , the town is safe and you get much better value on accommodation than on the Zambian side . Visiting the falls from Zambia has some advantages , Namely the tickets to enter the park are cheaper and accommodation in the town of Livingstone at least, is less expensive Also traditionally . But note the town is 10km from the acerca Falls, so You have to get a ride down . You can see the falls from above as well as below in Zambia , and the surrounding forested areas are more pristine . At Un certain times of the year , you can even swim in natural pool right before the edge of the upper falls . As a town , Livingstone is an interesting place . It used to be the capital city of Northern Rhodesia ( now Zambia) and its streets are still lined with Victorian-era colonial buildings .
020- CR0224 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . This is the " Lady Livingstone " boat . River Cruises. Few places offer the dramatic sunsets That you'll find on the Zambezi River with plumes of spray and wildlife completing the scene . The sunset cruise on the Zambezi River is a definite must on any trip to Victoria Falls. Relax with a sundowner and snacks as you gaze out onto the banks of the river . Have your camera ready to capture one of the most amazing sunsets in Africa . You'll be sure to spot wildlife animals as they come down to the river for a drink after a hot day in the Zambezi National Park ( Zimbabwe) and the Mosi -oa- Tunya National Park ( Zambia) . Sightings of elephant , giraffe and other game are common resident . There 's always an abundance of hippos and crocodiles . Birdlife is superb and the Fisheagles Usually will fill the scene with Their calls. Cruises are available daily on request for breakfast , lunch , sunset and dinner and last for approximately 2 to 3 hours . Transfers from hotels in Livingstone and Vic Falls Both town are included. (* Park Fees excluded - applicable in Zimbabwe)
Sunset cruises - $ 50 per person ( Claim it for free !)
Breakfast and lunch cruises - $ 70 per person
Dinner cruises - $ 75 per person (advance bookings essential )
Further upstream the Zambezi Lodges in Zimbabwe and Zambia Both offer sundowner cruises as part of the deal . These cruises outstretch upper affairs to be quieter than the reveling crowds on a few of the big party boats downstream . Whatever sparks your interest ... they're all great fun!
021- CR0391 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . Upper Zambezi River Cruise is a wonderful way to soak up the atmosphere of this magnificent River .... Lush riverine vegetation , abundant game and prolific birdlife , I would highly recommend this activity Especially If You Have not done the upper Zambezi canoeing . There are a variety of cruises available early morning , lunch and sunset . Also There are a variety of boats from small private boats of 8 to 10 people up to large party boats That carry 120 people. In Zimbabwe the boats launch acerca 5 Kilometres upstream of the Victoria Falls well out of dangers way of going over the edge, some people are Often wary of this . The bigger boats normally head upstream a little way and then turn around to return slowly giving you plenty of time to really take in the magnificence of your surroundings . You will see plenty of crocodiles and hippos and the birdlife is spectacular . Often seen are elephants crossing the river to get to the lush vegetation on the island of the Zambezi River . As you look downstream you can normally see the spray from the mighty Victoria Falls rising high into the sky and you imagine to yourself , That This Must Have Been the same view That David Livingstone had , as I Approached the Falls for the very first time . It's difficult to understand the excitement I must have felt . The sunset cruises as the name suggest stay on the river to watch the great African Sunset and arrive back slightly after dark . The early morning cruises are excellent for birdwatchers.There are multitude numerous different tour operators for this activity , With many boats of different shapes and sizes . All I can say here is That Shearwater run an excellent operation the staff are friendly , helpful and informative . The price you pay includes all drinks and snacks. The waiters chirp Is that the more you drink the more you will see. So They tirelessly bring you fresh gin and tonics . What a way to spend and afternoon .
022- CR0363 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . There are many ways and means of experiencing the beauty of the Zambezi River, but Undoubtedly one of the best is a cruise on the water . Cruises vary from a pontoon , to the most luxurious private boats with all facilities on deck . Preference is up to the single , but no trip will be complete without a river cruise . Enjoy morning or late afternoon / sunset cruises . The mighty Zambezi River is a hive of activity . View the majestic Victoria Falls, fondly Referred to as " Mosiatunya " - the smoke That thunders , against a backdrop of tropical vegetation . Pause long enough to marvel at the rain lilies amongst the greenery . Watch the movements of the baboons , hornbills cleaning Their wings , catching the sun or the leaf- clinging drops of water creating millions of tiny rainbows , perfect miniatures of the sweeping rainbows across the Falls . About 40km further up this great waterway lies Chobe National Park and is a wildlife paradise . Huge elephant herds Make Their way from the drier inland to enjoy the permanent water . A slow , unhurried trip gameviewing makes for an unexpected pleasure , at some point , all the creatures of the bush must eat to drink . Elephant with hippo vie for a place to swim . Crocodiles lay at the banks of the river pretending to be logs. These waterways host an incredible number of bird life . View them building nests amongst the reeds Their and listen to the plaintive cries of fish eagles skimming the water . The Zambezi River is the perfect platform for viewing wild and birdlife at a leisurely pace and has a calming effect on all Whom Themselves will open up and be swept away . Sunset is the most magical time in Africa , the heat and harshness forgotten , It provides the picture of tranquility That lingers long after the journey has ended.
023- CR0072 : Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the "African Queen" . Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River . Sunset Cruise - This tour is not for experiencing the falls , but instead is meant for wildlife viewing as well as for getting plastered at the open bar on board . In fact , this tour Seemed to be immensely popular With the backpacker crowd probably Because of copious amount of Alcohol Could you consume. It certainly Seemed That for the tour we where on , a larger percentage of customers Were more interested in the booze than the wildlife . I guess it Became apparent why this tour 's other nickname was the "booze cruise . " Still , it's possible to enjoy the wildlife and the sunset in relative piece if you consciously avoid the backpackers looking to impress the opposite sex with Their drunkeness . As for wildlife sightings , we where able to spot zebras , impalas , giraffes , and even a crocodile . We did not see any hippos nor elephants though they're supposed to be common in this section of the Zambezi River .
024- CR2386 : Aerial views of the Victoria Falls. In our minds , there's no better way to get a true sense of the immense scale of Victoria Falls than from the air . When the falls are in high flow ( as it was for us) , This May be the best way to see the falls as the ground views would be inundated with mist . There are a couple of popular ways to Achieve aerial views of the falls - helicopter and microlight / ultralight . Based on our experience , the helicopter ride acerca Lasted for 15 minutes and made ??several circuits above the falls providing the photographer plenty of Opportunities to take decent photos (unless you're the unlucky person in the middle back seat ) . If you have a DSLR , I highly recommend shooting in servo mode so you can take multiple shots in a short period of time . Unlike helicopter tours in Hawaii or other parts of the world , They Do not Necessarily seat you based on weight as Julie and I actually got the rear seats During our visit. Microlights and / or Ultralights are basically hang- gliders propelled by engines ( sometimes derisively Referred to as lawnmower engines though I doubt Whether That does it justice ) . Even though we did not do the microlights , I'm sure the Latter option is more thrilling and liberating . I've Heard That sometimes the pilot can even take photos for you as a camera is fixed to the craft.
025- CR2171 : Sunset in the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe and Zambia border Between has some of the Most breath taking views you'll ever encounter on the African continent , if not the world . The massive sheet of falling water and the spray it produces is mesmerizing to say the least . The nearby Victoria Falls National Park and the towns of Victoria Falls and Livingstone offer additional pleasures to the discerning visitor . The Victoria Falls is one of the Most popular attractions in Southern Africa , where you can explore the African wilderness as Dr. Livingstone did so many years ago . Getting to and from Victoria Falls is a breeze as the Victoria Falls Airport accommodates flights from Johannesburg, Windhoek , Harare and Bulawayo. There are plans to expand the runway to Accommodate bigger plans , que in turn mean direct flights from Could overseas destinations : such as Europe and the Americas . There is decent Usually transfer services arranged by the lodges and your journey Should be safe and sound . The Victoria Falls has many features will keep you entertained That and amused . The Devil 's Pool, on the Zambian side is one of the craziest things you can ever do . On the very edge of the Victoria Falls there is a rock wall That Creates a pool you can swim in That 's When the current is not too strong . You can peak over the 108 meter drop to just below the edge . Its as amazing as its nerve wrecking . The Victoria Falls and the spray it produces That sustains a ecosystem supports many animals and plants . Scottish missionary David Livingstone first heard about Victoria Falls, Known as Mosi -oa- Tunya , four years before I arrived there. The area was a sacred site for the Batoka and other tribes Local . On 17 November 1855, Chief of the Makololo Sekeletu Livingstone paddled to an island in the Zambezi , Known as Goat Island. Although the water was low at the time, Livingstone still felt a "tremor of fear " as I Approached the wall of spray. Gazing down into the churning chasm below Must Have Been a heartstopping experience (you can still make your way out to the island, now called Livingstone Island, from the Zambian Side During the dry season) . Rumours That a Portuguese man beat him to it have little evidence . Livingstone Described what I saw : " No one can suppose the beauty of the view from anything Witnessed in England It had never been seen before by European eyes , but scenes so lovely Must Have Been gazed upon by angels in Their flight. . "
026- CR1189 : Sunset in the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is the result of soft sandstone That fills huge cracks in the hard basalt rock of the plateau . As the Upper Zambezi flowed across the plateau in ancient times , it found the cracks and started wearing away the softer rock, Eventually creating a series of gorges . Geologists estimate the river That has-been falling into gorges These At least for the last 100,000 years . As the rock wears away , the cataract follows These gigantic cracks and moves further upriver across the plateau . Dr. David Livingstone Had been traveling down the Zambezi River in Southern Africa for several months . Perhaps a hundred miles upriver During this expedition I had to eat Ngonye Falls. Livingstone had found the cataract very impressive . The falls acerca Were Only 60 feet high but extended over the whole length of the wide river and the amount of water rushed over them That was staggering. However , on this day , November 17th, 1855 , I have been told I would be seeing a spectacular cataract That would dwarf the one at Ngonye . Livingstone , like most Europeans , had some Doubts about this . After all , at this point the river was flowing sluggishly across a flat plateau or valley without a mountain in sight . How could you have a big waterfall feature without a land That would cause a sudden change in the height of the river ? As the canoe paddling in They Were headed downstream , however I , Livingstone Began to hear a distant rumble . Ahead a plume of mist Arose from seemingly nowhere . By the time the canoe was pulled up on a small island and Livingstone had walked to the edge of the cataract , the sound deafening roar Become a had .
027- CR1394 : Sunset in the Victoria Falls. The Largest Waterfall in the World. The Victoria Falls Have Been billed as the Greatest Falling Curtain of Water on this Planet , making it one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Victoria Falls is Considered to be the largest waterfall in the world . They are not the widest waterfall or the highest waterfall but With All dimensions taken into account , including almost the largest flow rate, They are Considered to be the biggest curtain of falling water in the world . Surpassing the magnificent Niagara Falls and Iguacu Falls. The Victoria Falls lower mean annual flow rate Compared to These Two giants is only Because of the reduced flow it has long During the dry season of Southern Africa . The Victoria Falls are 1700m wide and are made ??up of five different " falls" . Four of These are in Zimbabwe and one is in Zambia. They are Known as the Devil's Cataract , Main Falls , Rainbow Falls and Horseshoe Falls in Zimbabwe and the Eastern Cataract in Zambia. Height of Victoria Falls. The Zambezi Rivers ' gentle meander through the African landscape is spectacularly interrupted as the river plummets over a cliff edge knife into a narrow chasm below. The height of this chasm varies from 70 m ( 233ft ) to 108m ( 360ft ) . The Devil's Cataract (70 meters high ) . The name comes from the adjacent island in the river where the Local tribes used to perform sacrificial ceremonies . When the missionaries arrived in the area They These ceremonies Referred to as " devilish" and HENCE the name was Given to this cataract .
Main Falls ( 93 meters high ) . This is the largest waterfall and Certainly The most majestic view of the falls . A wide curtain of water , with a peak flow rate of 700 000 cubic meters per minute . The sheer volume over the height of the falls is so great That Before getting anywhere near the ground , the water is buffeted by the strong winds and turned into rising mist .
Horseshoe Falls ( 95 meters high ) . As the name suggests These falls are shaped like a horseshoe . This is the section With the Least volume of water and will be the first to dry up Usually Between October and November .
Rainbow Falls ( 108 meters high ) . This is the highest point of all the falls . On a clear day a beautiful rainbow can be viewed normally at this point . A Luna rainbow May Also be seen on a full moon lit night .
The Eastern Cataract ( 101 meters high ) . These are the second highest falls completely and They are situated on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls but you can have a stunning view of them from the Zimbabwean side at danger point . Inadequate These numbers seem to relay the awesome size and power of this the largest waterfall in the world . That one day I hope you are able to come and see for yourself ..... Please click on the links to read more interesting facts on Victoria Falls, info we have created some other webpages on Waterfalls in the World. We found this website all about the world 's most beautiful waterfalls The World of Waterfalls You'll find info , photos , stories, and travel tips About these wonderful curtains of nature .
028- CR1172 : From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Chobe National Park, in northern Botswana, has one of the largest Concentrations of game in Africa . By size , it is the third largest park of the country , after the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the Gemsbok National Park, and is the Most diverse . Also It is the country 's first national park . The Serondela area ( or Chobe riverfront ) , situated in the extreme Northeast of the park , has as its main geographical features lush floodplains and dense woodland of mahogany , teak and other hardwoods now Largely reduced by heavy elephant pressure . The Chobe , que flows along the Northeast border of the park, is a major watering spot , Especially in the dry season (May through October ) for large breeding herds of elephants , as well as families of giraffe , sable and cape buffalo . The flood plains are the only place in Botswana where the puku antelope can be seen . Also Birding is excellent here . Large numbers of carmine bee eaters are spotted in season . When in flood spoonbills , ibis, various species of stork , duck and other waterfowl flock to the area. This is probably the most visited park section , partly Because of its proximity to the Victoria Falls. The town of Kasane , situated just downstream , is The most important town of the region and Serves as northern entrance to the park .
029- CR1098 : From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Hippos are massive creatures Usually seen bobbing in the water or making a deep heard laughing -type noise - an eerie sound at night . They graze on land but generally do so When it's dark . It's rare to see a hippo walking acerca during the day and when to do you Usually it's because they're starving . This photo was taken on the banks of the Chobe River . We were going on a cruise of the river , enjoying the breeze and seeing Hundreds of elephants eat to the water for a drink and a dip , or even a mud- bath . And then there They Were . About a dozen hippos foraging on the grass of an island. It was near the end of the dry season and vegetation was very limited , HENCE the reason They Emerged from the water during the day . Hippos are arguably the most dangerous animals in Africa killing more people each year than lions do ( but not as many as the mosquitoes and pests They carry) . Bad tempered , you want to stay away from them. Never get in the way of a moving hippo !
030- CR0867 : From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Elephants Crossing: Safari on the Chobe River . Out on the brackish water , two enormous heads bobbed on the surface. We cruised nearer for a closer look. Two teenage elephants Emerged from the water , Their bulky bodies towering over our small boat . Flapping Their ears , They moved swiftly towards the land . "They're just swimming across the river to Sedudu Island. Do not worry, They will not do us any harm, " said said Bernard , our guide from the luxury river cruise safari the Zambezi Queen . Along with other boat- loads of tourists , we watched in awe as the the elephants swam across the water channel, just inches away from our boat . The duo Looked playful and mischievous , splashing each other with water using Their trunks . When the leading elephant Reached the shore , I turned around and shooed away the other one . We burst into giggles , almost as if we where watching a pair of brothers fighting . Most of all , These Were elephants completely oblivious to us and all the boats around them. Elephants are the dominant creatures along the Chobe River , With over 120,000 of them living in the national park . On our evening river safari, we spotted herds of over sixty elephants in the distance far off even before we'd September . As we cruised further into the Botswana side of the Chobe , over dispersed Were Hundreds of them all over the floodplains and marshes . Chobe River divide Namibia 's Caprivi Strip from Botswana 's Chobe National Park, and is home to the largest populace of elephants in the world . While famous for its elephant population , the river is home to a whole Also world of other land and water -based animals

031-CR0971: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Chobe - The Elephant Capital of Africa. Massive elephant populations, riverboat safaris, sunset cruises, riverfront safari lodges and top quality game drives have firmly positioned the Chobe National Park as a “must visit” destination for any enquiring safari enthusiast. Chobe National Park is famous for its elephants. The latest enquiry into the elephant population estimates it to be 120,000 - the highest elephant concentration in Africa and the largest continuous surviving elephant population on Earth. The elephants in the Chobe are Kalahari Elephants and are the biggest size of any elephant, but this doesn't deter the Chobe lions which are famed for being able to bring down elephants, something most lions would not even bother to attempt.  The majority of our handpicked luxury safari lodges front onto the Chobe River and offer sunset river safaris along the Chobe River. The game viewing from the river is outstanding with the huge diversity of Chobe’s wildlife accessible from a different perspective to stimulate the enquiring mind and brook a new perspective on our fragile earth. It is hard to put to words the feeling you get as you glide past hippos and crocs while elephants, zebra, buffalo and even lion have an evening drink, and the sun fills the sky with every colour. It’s a freedom of the senses – nature, peace, beauty, exhilaration, relaxation - all rolled into one perfect African evening - it’s the reason why people book the Chobe lodges year after year. Most of the luxury safari lodges in the area are located on the Chobe River banks giving uninterrupted views of the wildlife-lined banks.

032-CR1075: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Hippos for example are often seen along the marshy banks of the Chobe River. As we cruised near the riverfront, we saw groups of over twenty hippos huddled together, one close to another as a form of defense against predators. With their bulging bellies and short, fat legs, these animals barely looked like they were capable of harming anyone – but as Bernard said, “Hippos kill the most number of humans each year, they’re one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.” The Savuti Marsh area, 10,878 km² large, constitutes the western stretch of the park (50 km north of Mababe Gate). The Savuti Marsh is the relic of a large inland lake whose water supply was cut a long time ago by tectonic movements. Nowadays the marsh is fed by the erratic Savuti Channel, which dries up for long periods then curiously flows again, a consequence of tectonic activity in the area. It is currently flowing again and in January 2010 reached Savuti Marsh for the first time since 1982. As a result of this variable flow, there are hundred of dead trees along the channel's bank. The region is also covered with extensive savannahs and rolling grasslands, which makes wildlife particularly dynamic in this section of the park. At dry seasons, tourists going on safari often view warthogs, kudus, impalas, zebras, wildebeests and above all elephants bullying each other. At rain seasons, the rich birdlife of the park (450 species in the whole park) is well represented. Packs of lions, hyenas, zebras or more rarely cheetahs are visible as well. This region is indeed reputed for its annual migration of zebras and predators.

033-CR0782: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. The Chobe River is legendary for its concentrations of wildlife, especially elephants... and in particular during the dry season, with animals gathering in their thousands along the river in search of water. What many visitors to Chobe miss when they are surrounded by a multitude of wildlife is the raw intimacy of the season that has caused so many animals to gather. The heat is a constant presence during the day but the trappings of the modern safari ensure protection and comfort from the elements – and an important aspect of the wilderness is missed. Watching a herd of elephants heading to the water through the dry season landscape of Botswana’s northern wilderness is one of my most abiding images of Chobe. During the dry season the Chobe River provides a lifeline for Botswana’s great elephant herds and they travel vast distances each day across the desiccated wilderness to and from the permanent waters of the river. It is not unusual to see hundreds of elephants at any one time on the Chobe floodplains, kicking up dust or splashing in the water. Historically the elephants moved across a wide range, with the Chobe River a mere watering place en route. The range incorporated northern Botswana, the Caprivi Strip of Namibia, south-eastern Angola, south-western Zambia and the eastern reaches of Zimbabwe. Civil War in Angola and a war of independence in Namibia put the herds in danger with the various armies using them as target practice and to sell the ivory for weapons. The elephant sought refuge in northern Botswana and the legend of Chobe was born. With the ending of hostilities the elephants have begun to cross the river to Namibia again, although the Chobe is still the central point for the gathering of the elephant herds in the dry season – and this is the attraction of Chobe.

034-CR0848: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. The Chobe river forms Botswana's northern border with Namibia and the boundary of southern Africa. Its water helps maintain a lush floodplain and rich variety of habitats vital to the multitude of animals that inhabit Chobe National Park. Not surprisingly, the whole park and river complex have become a superb birdwatching area. Recently I was there to witness and photograph the massive migration of elephants that move into northern Botswana from the arid Kalahari desert as the dry season starts to make its presence felt. The African Fish Eagle is a species placed in the genus Haliaeetus (sea eagles). The African Fish Eagle's closest relative appears to be the critically endangered Madagascar Fish Eagle (H. vociferoides). Like all sea eagle species pairs, this one consists of a white-headed species (the African Fish Eagle) and a tan-headed one. These are an ancient lineage of sea eagles, and as such have dark talons, beaks, and eyes. Both species have at least partially white tails even as juveniles. The scientific name is derived from Haliaeetus, New Latin for "sea eagle" (from the Ancient Greek haliaetos), and vocifer is derived from its original genus name, so named by the French naturalist François Levaillant, who called it 'the vociferous one'. This species is still quite common near freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and rivers, although they can sometimes be found near the coast at the mouths of rivers or lagoons. As their name implies, African Fish Eagles are indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa, ranging over most of continental Africa south of the Sahara Desert. Several examples of places where they may be resident include the Orange River in South Africa and Namibia, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, and Lake Malawi bordering its namesake country Malawi, Tanzania and Mozambique. The African Fish Eagle is thought to occur in substantial numbers around the locations of Lake Victoria and other large lakes that are found in Central Africa, particularly the Rift Valley lakes. The African Fish Eagle is a generalist species, requiring only open water with sufficient prey and a good perch. This is evident by the number of habitat types that this species may be found in, including grassland, swamps, marshes, tropical rainforest, fynbos and even desert bordering coastlines, such as that of Namibia. The African Fish Eagle is absent from arid areas with little surface water.

035-CR0855: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. In Botswana, crocodiles are most commonly found in and around Chobe River and the Okavango Delta. They reside in lakes, rivers and swamps and can be spotted in estuaries and mangrove swamps. The Nile crocodile can exceed 1000kgs in weight, has a long jaw and extremely sharp and noticeable teeth along with webbed hind feet. The skin of the Nile crocodile is covered in geometrically arranged, horny plates. The horny plates found on top of the crocodiles head are fused to the skull. 40% of their body length is made up of its tail which has two raised dorsal keels. Young adult crocodiles are green with unusual black markings on its back and sides while its throat and stomach are straw-yellow. Young crocodiles dig a hole up to 3 metres long which for the first 3 to 4 years of their lives they use as a shelter. They don’t spend much time in water. As they get older they take up residence in backwaters and swamps, eating small birds, fish, Terrapins and small mammals. Adults are darker and are olive to grey in colour with a yellow belly. Adults overcome their prey with a fast, sideways swipe of the head. They also use their tail to knock over vegetation to remove residing birds in nests or redirect fish into their mouths. Crocodiles eat large prey by biting them into smaller pieces. They participate in what is known as supportive behavior, where the reptiles will cooperate in feeding on and breaking up prey to sizeable amounts. Crocodiles mainly eat fish (Catfish) but will also ambush and fest on game meat such as antelope including Zebra and Buffalo. They can also be a danger to humans, as they will attack them and injure them or devour them.

036-CR0845: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Crocodiles, Hippos, and Birds on the Chobe River... To the naked eye, the Chobe River is a gentle, inviting body of water that beckons one to take a dip. This would be a big mistake, however, because the Chobe River is full of crocodiles that are very ready to eat anything they come across. We were given very clear directions not to dangle any part of our bodies in the water while we were in the tender boats; this took on much significance as five of us rode across the river on that first bird-watching expedition. Crocodiles were sun-bathing along the shore, looking very innocent and sleepy until our approaching boat startled them. Coming close to one of these creatures and seeing his teeth as he took off at great speed for the water was one of those “Oh my gosh” experiences and any thought I might have had of just feeling the water, if only for a moment,was readily forgotten. The hippos, as well, were out, groups of them wallowing in the mud. There is nothing like hearing the sounds of hippos, especially during the night or at sunrise when the “world' is silent; it's a reminder of how small we are in the universe. The birds of Africa are some of the most beautiful creatures to fly in the air. Either large and majestic or small and delicate, they are symbolic of a continent that is powerful and fragile at the same time. Watching male birds bring reeds to the nest so that the females could continue building or seeing the chicks poking out their heads in order to be fed introduced me to the joys and intrigue of bird-watching through a pair of binnoculars.

037-CR0697: : From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) in Chobe National Park in Botswana. African fish eagles are familar birds of prey on the waterways of sub-Saharan Africa, noted for their distinctive and haunting call. These eagles perch on branches overlooking the water, swooping down to catch fish which are then carried back to the perch or dragged to shore if too big to carry. African fish eagles also eat birds, monkeys and even crocodile hatchlings. These efficient predators can get away with spending as little as 10 minutes a day actively hunting. The African fish-eagle is a proficient hunter, with live fish accounting for the bulk of its diet. It typically hunts from a high perch on a waterside tree, where it can watch for fish moving close to the water's surface. Once prey is sighted, the fish-eagle launches from its perch, swoops low over the water, and at the critical moment throws both feet forward to seize hold of its target with powerful talons. Small fish are carried through the air into a tree but larger catches are dragged through the water to the shoreline. Despite only one in every seven or eight fishing attempts being successful, the African fish-eagle rarely spends more than ten minutes per day actively hunting. Aside from fish, this efficient raptor will also take the young of water birds such as the lesser flamingo, and very occasionally will go for monkeys, crocodile hatchlings, frogs and insects. Except for the odd dead fish, fully mature African fish-eagles rarely feed on carrion unless food is particularly scarce. Adult African fish-eagles are normally seen in pairs, but on large productive lakes, nests and roosts may be only a few hundred metres apart, and many birds can be found together in one area. The stick nests are usually built in a tree close by water and are used year after year, growing in size over time with the addition of reeds, papyrus heads, bulrushes and sometimes weaver nests. Calling and duetting, whilst perched or soaring, is an integral part of the breeding display, and is combined with dramatic aerial dives and falls, with pairs interlocking talons in mid air. The female normally lays one to three eggs in the nest, which are incubated for around 44 days before hatching. Until the chicks fledge after around 65 to 75 days, it is necessary for the adults to spend considerably more time hunting for food, compared with other times of the year. Although in captivity African fish-eagles can live for more than 40 years, in the wild those that are fortunate to survive the first year have an estimated life expectancy of 12 to 24 years.

038-CR1116: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Hippos in Chobe River. The Chobe national park is one of the most game rich national parks in Africa and in our opinion you have more photographic opportunities per game drive than anywhere else. The Chobe is also very accessible from Johannesburg as Air Botswana and SA Airlink have regular flights which take around two hours each way. The Chobe River rises in the Angola from which it travels under it's Hambukushu name, Kwando. It becomes the Linyanti (named by the Subiya) as it reaches Botswana and finally becomes the Chobe at the border post of Ngoma.  The Chobe runs along the northern border of Botswana, meeting the Zambezi and tumbling over the fault-line of Victoria Falls.  Towards the end of it's journey, the river becomes a twisting, broad arm of water snaking its way through swampland.  The Chobe National Park rests on its banks at this point and is home to a huge number of herbivores, especially elephant.  The wide banks and sweet grass attract plains game of all sorts; of particular interest are the swamp antelope, red lechwe.  The birdlife here too is extraordinary. Hippos are known to wander great distances at night in search of food. In Botswana I observed a Hippo that had wandered too far from the Linyanti system one night and ended up in the Savuti Marsh area. Its time of arrival in Savuti coincided with a water crisis. The waterholes were dry and many animals were milling around in confusion. The Hippo was stranded at one of the dry pans. The days were scorching, adding to the problem. The most fascinating part of this drama was the other animals’ reaction to the hippo. Hyenas lay side by side with the Hippo in one of the concrete troughs in an apparent move to cool down on the concrete. Elephant would walk over, have a look then walk back to the little shade there was. When the water finally came through the pipe on the third day the Elephants kept other animals away from the trough with the Hippo, even chasing the Hyenas away that were sharing the trough at the time. It was an amazing behavioral trait.The Hippo recovered and disappeared during the third.

039-CR0890: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Chobe National Park. The Chobe National Park is located in the Northern part of Botswana and comprises an area of approximately 11 000 km². The park lies along the Chobe River, which borders Botswana and Namibia. The Chobe National Park is the second largest park in Botswana and is known for its superb game viewing all year round as it has one of the largest populations of game on the African continent. Chobe is probably most well known for its impressive herds of African Elephants. The Chobe River supports the largest concentration of elephant found anywhere in Africa and it is not uncommon to encounter herds in excess of a hundred. The Chobe River has its origins in Angola, where it is known as the Kwando River. When it enters Botswana, the Kwando River becomes the Linyanti and then near Ngoma Gate it becomes the Chobe River. The Chobe River meets up with the Zambezi River near Kazangula at the border of Botswana. Guests are able to fish for tigerfish and bream in both the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, which undoubtedly are the premier tigerfishing waters in Africa. The most remarkable feature of the Chobe National Park is its huge concentration of elephants. Chobe National Park hosts the largest surviving elephant populations in the world, currently estimated to exceed 120,000. This population is dispersed throughout much of northern Botswana as well as parts of northwestern Zimbabwe. The Chobe elephants are migratory, making seasonal movements of up to 200 kilometers in a circuit from the Chobe and Linyanti rivers, where they concentrate in the dry season, to the pans in the southeast of the park, where they gather during the rainy season. Chobe National Park is home to huge herds of Elephant, Buffalo, and Burchell's Zebra. There are high densities of predators such as Lion, Leopard, Spotted Hyena and Cheetah. The park also hosts more unusual antelope species like Roan and Sable, Puku, Tsessebe, Eland, Red Lechwe, Waterbuck, and the rare Chobe Bushbuck. Other more popular species such as Giraffe, Kudu, Warthog, Wildebeest and Impala also abound in the park. The original inhabitants of the Chobe National Park were the San people (also known as the Basarwa people in Botswana). The Basarwa were hunter gatherers and moved from one area to another in search of water, wild fruits and wild animals. At the beginning of the 20th century, the region that would become Botswana was divided up to different land tenure systems. At that time, a major part of the park's area was classified as crown land. The ideas of a national park to protect the varied wildlife found here as well as promote tourism first appeared in 1931. In 1932, an area of 24 000 km² in the Chobe district was declared a non-hunting area and during the following two years, this protected area increased in size to 31 600 km².

040-CR0809: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Chobe National Park is probably best known for its spectacular elephant sightings the population is estimated at around 70,000 elephants today, Chobe National Park is said to have the highest concentration of elephants in Africa. One thing is a given in Chobe: just a brief drive along any of its roads quickly reveals a torn branch, a trumpeting call, an enormous grey shape ghosting out of the bush …all the unmistakable signs that this is elephant territory. At Chobe you can get so close to elephants that you can hear the deep rumblings as they communicate with each other. With the estimated population of around 70 000, Loxodonta Africana is both plentiful and, because of tight restrictions on hunting, remarkably tolerant of a traveller’s attention. Elephants living here are Kalahari elephants, the largest in size of all known elephant subspecies. Yet they are characterized by rather brittle ivory and short tusks, most likely due to calcium deficiency in the soil. Damage caused by the high numbers of elephants is rife in some areas of the Chobe National Park. In fact, concentration is so high throughout Chobe that culls have been considered, but are too controversial and have thus far been rejected. In the dry season, these elephants sojourn in the Chobe River and Linyanti River areas taking advantage of the permanent water in the area by the end of the dry season the area looks totally stripped of all nutrients, dry and desolate. When the rains come the elephants start moving south on a 200km migration path to the southern reaches of the park. Now that it has rained there are pools of water in the bush and they can graze on trees and grasses lush from the summer rain. Once these pools start drying up they once again make their way to the permanent waters of the Chobe River. The distribution of these elephants is however not restricted to the Chobe National Park as they can and often do move freely into neighbouring Zimbabwe.

041-CR0715: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  Water Monitor Lizard on the Chobe River. The Chobe River has its origins in the highlands of Angola and once it enters Botswana, it goes through several name changes. It enters as the Kwando River and immediately becomes the Linyanti, then the Itenge and is finally called the Chobe River. Knowing this may avoid confusion when looking at maps or reading information. The Chobe River area contains an interesting variety of habitats and is rich in plant life, with mopane woodland, mixed combretum, sandveld, floodplain, grasslands and riverine woodland. Many trees have suffered considerable damage from the high numbers of elephants, who push them over and rip off the bark - and some woods have been totally denuded. The most popular area in and just outside Chobe National Park is the short 9-mile (15km) stretch of Chobe River from Kasane town to the Serondela campsite. Few people come to Chobe without taking a trip on this river to see hundreds of hippopotamuses and crocodiles. Both hippo's and elephants epitomise this park more than any other animals and are often featured on the cover of brochures to the area. The only subject more photographed in Chobe are the exquisite sanguine sunsets sinking slowly over the water. Chobe National Park is probably the most affordable of Botswana's parks and with the lure of excellent game watching both on and beside the river, the well frequented areas can become quite crowded.

042-CR0477: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  Gazelles next to the Chobe River.  The Chobe River actually flows, or at least appear to flow, both ways. In the dry season it flows into the Zambezi River, but when the Zambezi River is in full flow it “pushes” the Chobe back up stream. Chobe is most often associated with its elephant population as this has the largest elephant population in the world. However, this is not what we mainly saw on our safaris here, although we saw a few. The setting around the river is very beautiful with buffalos, antelopes and gazelles eating at the river banks, which are either sandy or covered with grass. When arriving to Chobe the first thing we did was to get out on the Chobe River for an afternoon/evening safari. After being on safaris in Kenya and Tanzania I felt quite spoilt, however the safari from a river boat was completely different and a very nice experience and exposed wild life in another type of setting. The Chobe River and briefly forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and at the confluence of the Chobe River and the Zambezi Rivers four countries meet, one of the few places in the world which this happens. Zambia, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe all meet there.

043-CR0762: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  Lion in Chobe River.  Chobe National Park is home to huge herds of Elephant, Buffalo, and Burchell's Zebra and high densities of predators such as Lion, Leopard, Spotted Hyena and Cheetah. The park is also notable for the presence of more unusual antelope species like Roan and Sable, Puku, Tsessebe, Eland, Red Lechwe, Waterbuck, and the rare Chobe Bushbuck. Other more popular species such as Giraffe, Kudu, Warthog, Wildebeest and Impala also abound. Chobe National Park is one of the world's last remaining true wilderness areas and one of Africa's greatest game parks. Chobe is the third largest park in Botswana (after the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the remote Gemsbok National Park in the south-western corner of the country) and covers an area of 10,698 square kilometres. Chobe however, is unquestionably the most spectacular and diverse of Botswana's areas, even more so than the celebrated Okavango Delta. The Chobe area became popular in the mid-19th century with European hunters, who flocked to the area to shoot big game. Prior to this the wildlife had only been hunted by traditional means for subsistence by the native people. However, the white hunters introduced firearms to the indigenous people and this soon led to a massive increase in the killing of wildlife. The locals were encouraged to shoot far more than they needed in order to barter for European goods like tobacco, clothes, blankets and more guns. Later visitors exploited the timber of the indigenous forests along the Chobe River. Commercial logging began prior to World War I and then again from 1944-1955. Teak was the major timber species and these trees still exist in Chobe, but not along the river. Thus, the lumber industry drastically altered the vegetation along the Chobe River; however, many today blame Elephants for this carnage. The lumber mills along the river closed down in the mid 1950's because there were no more trees remaining. The Chobe Game Reserve was proclaimed by the colonial Bechuanaland Government in 1961 to control the widespread hunting and logging in the area. The park first opened to the public in August 1964 and it was upgraded to national park status in 1968 after Botswana's independence.

044-CR0666: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  A warthog crossing the road near the Chobe River. Warthogs often fall prey to predators such as Lion, Leopard and Hyena but they do not go down without a fight. I have personally observed Warthogs chasing off hyenas that had been stalking the Warthogs and on one particularly memorable occasion I viewed a Lioness chasing a Warthog across the floodplains of Chobe. After a dash of about 75 meters the warthog suddenly turned in midstride to face the lioness. She stopped meters from the Warthog, made a few gestures then moved off. The Warthog continued on its way. Warthog mating is the stuff of legends. When there is a female in season the dominant male will walk around making a clicking sound, of uncertain origin, and foam at the mouth. This foam apparently stimulates the male. Male Warthogs will stay mounted for up to an hour. Often a meal has been disrupted by the antics of Warthogs on the open Botswana floodplains in front of the lodges. This can cause some hilarity with guests. The interaction of Hyenas with Warthogs in Botswana is very interesting. Personal observations do not indicate why a Hyena chooses a particular Warthog to chase. Often a number of Warthogs will pass by Hyenas and the Hyenas will barely take notice but all of a suddenly hey will chase a particular individual.

045-CR0509: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  A pair of giraffes standing on the banks of the Chobe river in Botswana on a sunny summer day. he drive along the riverfront in Chobe National Park during the dry season is a spectacle to be seen. The first glimpse of the bright aqua blue Chobe River winding its way through sandy terrain is always breathtaking. Driving through the western entrance at Ngoma gate in the afternoon, the first view from atop the ridge is of wide floodplains often dotted with upwards of two to four thousand Burchell’s zebra. Adjacent to the bustling, small town of Kasane, using the more popular eastern Sedudu gate, through a deep valley to the river’s edge, in one long panoramic scene an immense diversity of wildlife can be seen, including impala, baboon, hippo, crocodile, buffalo, waterbuck, lechwe, puku, kudu, sable and warthog. Chobe is also an excellent venue for birding safaris with tracts of hundreds of mixed waterfowl and over 460 bird species recorded in the Park. However, Chobe is still considered the ‘elephant capital of Africa,’ notable for its immense elephant population that converges along the river, numbering hundreds to thousands on any given day. But, for anyone who has had the privilege of a recent game drive, most unexpected and amazing are the large numbers of giraffe! Morning drives are popular in hopes of sighting large predators, but can be comparatively quiet compared to the afternoon, as wildlife tend to travel towards the river when the temperatures rise and the sun heats up the landscape. Regardless of the time, often first sighted is a large head popping high above a woolly caper bush and then, another and another. Giraffe are to be seen in every direction. This surge in giraffe on the Chobe riverfront is even more surprising knowing that, unfortunately, within the last decade throughout the African continent giraffe numbers have dropped considerably. In 1999, the total number of giraffe in Africa was estimated to exceed 140,000, however current estimates have the population at less than 80,000, including all sub-species.

046-CR0788: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  An elephant scratches his head in Chobe  River Front.  The Chobe National Park was named after the Chobe river, which forms the northern boundary of the park. The Chobe River area is very rich in plant life, offering Bachestegia sandveld, mopane woodland, mixed Combretum veld, floodplain grassland and the riverine woodland. The latter has, unfortunately, been severely damaged by elephants and has in places been reduced to scrub or totally denuded.

Perhaps the greatest attraction of the Chobe river area is the elephants, which can almost always be seen there. Their late afternoon visits to the water's edge offer hours of fascinating viewing and wonderful opportunities for the photographer. Along with the huge herds of elephants, huge herds of buffalo can also be seen in this area during the dry season. You can also expect to see tsessbe, waterbuck, roan, eland, sable, giraffe and, if you are lucky, one of the rare puku. The floodplains of the river make an ideal viewing area, with mixed patches of open grassland, thickets of bush and riverine forest. In the river itself you should see hippo, and crocodile. The Chobe river area has a rich selection of bird life as well. Exquisite sunsets make this a wildlife experience not to be missed.

047-CR0927: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  An elephant walking in Chobe  River Front. Chobe National Park in the north west region of Botswana is renowned for its high density of elephants. On a recent visit, I literally saw hundreds of elephants in just three days. They were swimming across the Chobe River at sunset, prodding their little ones forward on a march through the dry landscape, and casually stripping bark from whatever trees they had not yet destroyed. It is a remarkable national park at any time of year and not surprisingly, Botswana's most visited park. Besides elephants big and small, Chobe is home to all members of the Big 5, along with huge pods of hippo, crocodiles, kudu, lechwe, wild dogs, as well as over 450 species birds. The Chobe River offers wonderful opportunities to watch the sunset as hundreds of animals come down to the river banks for their sundowner. Chobe's proximity to the Victoria Falls and all its available activities, is another added bonus. Here's a brief guide to Chobe National Park, where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit. Chobe National Park covers an area of 4200 miles and lies north of the Okavango Delta in the north west of Botswana. The Chobe River at the northern end of the park, marks the border between Botswana and Namibia's Caprivi Strip. Here's a detailed map from Botswana Tourism. Chobe is blessed with a variety of habitats ranging from highly fertile floodplains, grasslands and thickets bordering the Chobe River, mopane woodland, forests and scrub.

048-CR1169: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.   The Chobe National Park in Botswana is only a 1¾-hour drive from Livingstone. It is one of the greatest game reserves in southern Africa and famous for the number of elephant that live there. The Chobe River flows lazily through the Caprivi flood plains and provides a haven for huge herds of buffalo and elephant, zebra, wildebeest and impala which are followed closely by predators including lion, hyena, the elusive leopard and the odd pack of the now rare wild dog. The bird life in particular is exceptional. Travelling to Chobe includes an exciting crossing by boat of the Zambezi River at the point where the 4 countries of Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia meet. The Safari starts with a morning gameviewing cruise on the Chobe River with tea, coffee, drinks and snacks being served on board. Large flocks of birds, big pods of hippos and very large crocodiles are all around. After disembarking, lunch is then taken at the Chobe Marina Lodge which overlooks the Chobe River and the plains beyond. In the afternoon, open safari vehicles are used for a game drive into the park. Ad a very early morning game drive to all overnight trips on the morning of day two and three depending on your trip. Chobe Day Trips begin from your accommodation in Livingstone at 06h45am with guests returning to their accommodation by about 18h30 on a full day trip or by 10am on overnight trips. The trip includes National Park fees, transfers, the services of qualified wildlife guides, drinks and snacks on the boat, bottled mineral water on the game drive and lunch including one soft drink or beer. * Please note that there are visa implications for some nationalities. The price is the same for all ages although children under 12 are not encouraged to go on the Chobe Day Trip.

049-CR1157: From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.   Best of all it is a short trip from the Victoria Falls making it easy to include a Chobe safari Day trip in your travel itinerary. Chobe National Park is widely regarded as having the most diverse concentration of animals within the area. At the Chobe National park you can be sure to see at least four of the big five – it is the Rhino that is most elusive here. But elephants, zebra’s, cheetah’s, lions and wild dogs are just a few of the animals you can view on a Chobe Day trip. The Chobe National Park is situated in Botswana and stretches across 10,689 square kilometers of vast wilderness. It is the second biggest national park in Botswana but has the biggest concentration of animal life within the park. Chobe National Park is known for their huge elephant population. The elephant population here at Chobe National Park is special for a number of reasons. The elephants here make up the highest concentration of elephants in Africa. They are also the largest surviving elephant population on earth. You are guaranteed to see elephants up close on a Chobe Day trip. Chobe National Park Chobe national park also has some extensive San rock paintings which remain from the area’s first inhabitants. A Chobe day trip can be a highlight in your Victoria Falls experience. We can arrange tours to Chobe from both Victoria Falls Zimbabwe and Zambia, A Chobe day trip is easy to organize and will add a whole new dimension to your time at Victoria Falls.

050-CR1181: Ferry to cross the Chobe River. From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.  Chobe, which is the second largest national park in Botswana, covers 10 566 square kilometres. The park is divided into four main focal points comprising the Chobe River front with floodplain and teak forest, the Savute Marsh in the west about fifty kilometres north of Mababe gate, the Linyanti Swamps in the northwest and the hot dry hinterland in between. The original inhabitants of what is now the park were the San people, otherwise known in Botswana as the Basarwa. They were hunter-gatherers who lived by moving from one area to another in search of water, wild fruits and wild animals. The San were later joined by groups of the Basubiya people and later still, around 1911, by a group of Batawana led by Sekgoma. When the country was divided into various land tenure systems, late last century and early this century, the larger part of the area that is now the national park, was classified as crown land. In 1931 the idea of creating a national park in the area was first mooted, in order to protect the wildlife from extinction and to attract visitors. In 1932, an area of some 24 000 square kilometres in the Chobe district was declared a non-hunting area and the following year, the protected area was increased to 31 600 square kilometres. However, heavy tsetse fly infestations resulted in the whole idea lapsing in 1943. In 1957, the idea of a national park was raised again when an area of about 21 000 square kilometres was proposed as a game reserve and eventually a reduced area was gazetted in 1960 as Chobe Game Reserve. Later, in 1967, the reserve was declared a national park - the first national park in Botswana. There was a large settlement, based on the timber industry, at Serondela, some remains of which can still be seen today. This settlement was gradually moved out and the Chobe National Park was finally empty of human occupation in 1975. In 1980 and again in 1987, the boundaries were altered, increasing the park to the present size.

051-CR0459: Craft vendors on the border between Botswana and Zambia. From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park.   Just inside the Zambian border, next to the field museum, is an outstanding curio stand. The carvers and traders come mostly from Mukuni village, though the goods come from as far as DRC and Malawi. Mukuni Park in the centre of town has a similar area of curio vendors. Both are excellent places to buy wooden and stone carvings, handicrafts, chessboards, masks, drums, malachite bangles, baskets and the like. There are usually about 20 or 30 individual traders, laying their wares out separately. All compete with one another and vie for your business. The best buys are makenge baskets (these come exclusively from Zambia's western province), malachite and heavy wooden carvings: hippos, elephants, rhinos, giraffes and smaller statues, often made out of excellent-quality, heavy wood. However, you should consider the ethics of encouraging any further exploitation of hardwoods. Note, too, that some wooden items, especially wooden salad bowls and tall giraffes, are prone to cracking once you get them home due to changes in climate and that very rarely are 'antiques' sold at craft markets anything other than fakes. Unless you have the expertise to tell the difference, it's better to buy such artefacts from a reputable shop in town.  The curio market is a place to bargain hard and you can expect to hear all sorts of pre-fabricated stories as to why you should pay more. When you start to pay, you will realise how sophisticated the traders are about their currency conversions, reminding you to double-check any exchange rates. Traders will accept most currencies and sometimes credit cards.

052-CR0128: Royal Livingstone Hotel Cultural Animator.  Royal Livingstone Hotel - Livingstone, Zambia The Royal Livingstone Hotel is a luxurious 5*plus hotel situated on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls. The hotel stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River, just a short walk to the entrance of The Victoria Falls. It's named in honor of the explorer Dr. David Livingstone, and it's interior design reflects the elegance of days gone by, using an African architectural style. Royal Livingstone consist of 17 colonial-style buildings, with large verandas. The main hotel building incorporates the lounge, restaurant and bar. 173 spacious en-suite rooms, 113 with twin beds, and 54 with king-size beds. Each room has its own private verandah. Three suites offer a separate lounge and bedroom, while the presidential Suite offers an additional, optional separate bedroom. There are two rooms with disabled facilities.

053-CR1504: Outside the Royal Livingstone Hotel.  The Royal Livingstone Hotel is situated on the Zambian banks of the Zambezi River, close to Victoria Falls. Indeed, so close is it that the waterfall's spray can be viewed right from the hotel verandah, the edge of the falls can be seen from the Sun Deck and there is direct access to the world wonder from the hotel grounds. And don't be surprised to encounter zebra or impala grazing on the hotel's manicured lawns - The Royal Livingstone is located in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. The hotel's wide, deep verandahs and colonial décor are reminiscent of more elegant and less hurried time. The excellent service at Royal Livingstone reflects this: staff at The Royal Livingstone have undergone a high level of training to ensure world-class, professional and personalized service during your stay. There are countless activities - from scenic flights to elephant-back safaris - to be enjoyed in the area and the hotel staff will be happy to make recommendations and arrange bookings for you.

054-CR1529: Garden of the Royal Livingstone Hotel.  The Royal Livingstone is a luxurious 5* Hotel situated on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls. The hotel stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River, just a short walk to the entrance of The Victoria Falls. The Royal Livingstone Hotel is named in honor of the explorer Dr. David Livingstone, and it's interior design reflects the elegance of days gone bye using an African architectural style. The Royal Livingstone Hotel consists of 17 colonial-style buildings, with large verandas. The main hotel incorporates the lounge, a restaurant and a bar.  The Royal Livingstone Hotel has: 173 spacious en-suite rooms:113 with twin beds, and 54 with king-size beds. Each room has its private verandah. Three suites offer a separate lounge and bedroom, while the Presidential Suite offers an additional, optional separate bedroom. There are two rooms with disabled facilities.  Room facilities: All guestrooms are elegantly decorated. Each room has large beds with white linen, satellite television, air-condition, mini bar, mini safe, telephone, tea and coffee-making facilities. Bathrooms are in Victorian style with shower and bath.

055-CR3011: Zebra on the outside of The Royal Livingstone Hotel. Zebra grazing in front of the Royal Livingstone Hotel. This hotel has the prime location for the Victoria Falls. It is wonderful to be able to sit in the garden and hear the thunder and see the smoke. The great lawn is beautiful and the sunset bar, built on stilts on the river front, is a superb place to sit and enjoy the sunset. The Royal Livingstone is a grand hotel in a prime location on the banks of the Zambezi. It is so close to the Victoria Falls that you can see the top of them and the spray they give off clearly from the hotel gardens, while listening to the mighty thundering of the water. Around the hotel there are wrought iron chandeliers, smooth polished floors, lavish flower arrangements and big gilt mirrors. There is a wide, sweeping lawn where zebra, warthog and impala often come to graze, with a large swimming pool sloping down to the river. On the river is a fabulous sunset bar, built on stilts over the water. It's stylish, scenic and definitely the place to be as the sun sets. The 173 rooms are arranged in attractive white houses in blocks of ten, all facing the river. You'll be driven by a golf buggy to your room and have a personal butler to look after you throughout your stay. The rooms are international standard hotel rooms, perhaps lacking a little in character but with every facility you could need, including balcony, air conditioning, fan, TV, mini-bar and sound system. The en-suite bathrooms sparkle and have baths and separate showers. There's a large dining room with veranda outside and smart casual attire is required for dinner in the main restaurant. Guests can also enjoy high-tea in the afternoons, at an additional cost, while the hotel also offers spa treatments. Most importantly, it is perfectly located for Victoria Falls, as you can walk from the hotel gardens to the Falls in about 15 minutes. Hotel guests can visit the Falls as much as they like without having to pay an entrance fee, as it is included in the cost of the stay.

056-CR3045: Dr David Livingstone statue on the edge of the Victoria Falls. Mosi-Oa-Tunya – The Smoke That Thunders – the local name for the Victoria Falls, is recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Sun International Zambia, The Falls Resort is a 46-hectare paradise, situated within the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Wildlife Park, which fringes the Zambezi River and overlooks the Victoria Falls. The resort incorporates the three-star Zambezi Sun, and the sophisticated five-star hotel, The Royal Livingstone. The town of Livingstone, founded in 1905, was named after the famous Scottish missionary, Dr. David Livingstone who explored much of the area. This charming historic town has much to offer the visitor, including three museums: the Livingstone Museum traces the history of man in Zambia and has a good collection of memorabilia relating to Dr. David Livingstone; The Victoria Falls Field Museum which stands on an archaeological site with artifacts dating back millions of years, and the Railway Museum, detailing the years when Livingstone was the Railway Capital of a vast region and when much of its wealth came from the railways. I had the pleasure of staying at The Royal Livingstone, reminiscent of a by-gone era of colonial sophistication, where I was welcomed with iced tea and personal attention in the elegant lounge. With my luggage installed, Kennedy my butler proceeded to give me a ‘tour’ of my luxurious en-suite room, taking care to check whether I would need my towels and linen changed daily – this was just the start of my journey into exploring the responsible tourism initiatives that saw The Falls Resort named as the overall winner at the 2009 Imvelo Awards for Responsible Tourism. As part of their commitment to being a sustainable tourist destination, The Royal Livingstone Hotel and Zambezi Sun were proud to achieve Platinum Heritage Status for environmentally responsible tourism in 2009. The daily operations are underpinned by their concern for the environment and the development and implementation of the Environmental Policy has received highest priority since August 2003.

057-CR3141: Walking close to the edge of the Falls, you will experience spray shooting upward. The best place to experience this in when crossing the Knife edge bridge. During the wet season the bottom of the Gorge cannot be seen and some parts of the Falls will also be hidden by the spray. The Lunar rainbow can be seen during the wet season when there is a full moon. September until November is the low water season. During this time there is a clear view of the Falls and the Gorge underneath. You will be able to take a walk on the Falls were some of the rocks are exposed and it is safe to walk through the river. Sometimes the water is low enough to even walk all the way across to Livingstone Island, the place where David Livingstone had his first glimpse of the Falls. This is surely one of the most magnificent views in the area. The best lookout point is on the Knife edge bridge were you will have a clear view of the Main Falls as well as the Boiling Pot where the river turns and heads down to the Batoka Gorge. During the dry season it is safe to walk down to the Boiling Pot to dip your toes in the Zambezi River. Follow the signs to the boiling pot starting at the Falls parking lot. It is quite a steep walk down and the climb back up a little more laborious, but well worked out steps make the trip more bearable. The view from down in the Gorge with the water swirling and crashing onto the rocks is nevertheless worth the climb. When the water is low, you can walk along the lip of the falls to Devils Pool for a tremendous view of the river from the river side ! The Victoria Falls Bridge links Zambia and Zimbabwe. Construction on the bridge was completed in 1905 spanning 198 m in length and 128 m in height. If you are brave enough you can prove your courage on the 111m bungi jump from the bridge. The 360 degree view on the bridge enables you to appreciate the magnificent beauty of the Gorge and the Falls. To get onto the Victoria Falls Bridge you can get a free bridge pass at the Zambian border post.

058-CR2475: Craft shop clerks Royal Livingstone Hotel. Unwind and relax with jetted bathtubs in the guest rooms at this spa hotel in Livingstone, not to mention it also offers an outdoor pool and free breakfast. The Royal Livingstone Hotel is also on a lake. You will be close to Devil's Pool, Victoria Falls Field Museum and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Moreover, Victoria Falls Bridge and Victoria Falls National Park are close to the hotel. Highlights include a health club and a casino. This 5-star Livingstone hotel offers a hair salon. No matter how busy you are, take some time out to de-stress as you will find beauty services and massage/treatment rooms on site. Outfitted with a bar/lounge, you'll find the perfect place to have a drink. Knowledgeable staff are available at the front desk 24 hours-a-day and can provide tour/ticket assistance and express check-out. The reception has a safety deposit box for your valuable items. Wi-Fi is available for a fee. This hotel has a business center and conference/meeting rooms as well as secretarial services and translation services, so if you are planning a meeting you will have everything you need to make your event a success. Other amenities include gift shops/newsstands, free parking, dry cleaning/laundry services, an elevator (lift), beach/pool umbrellas and concierge services.

059-CR2483: Royal Livingstone Hotel Restaurant. The food is tasty at the Royal Livingstone, and high tea is a real treat (see below). I enjoyed lots of items from the snack menu, which is available throughout the day and evening. As expected with a 5 star property, the prices are quite steep, expect to pay $15 and up for a sandwich or salad. The dining room is very pleasant but a bit formal. I saw several people turned away because they were wearing t-shirts and not proper shirts. It seemed a waste since there were plenty of empty tables despite guests being urged to make reservations in advance. The a la carte menu offers lots of interesting dishes using local fish and some more exotic game meats. The breakfast is quite spectacular and included in the room rate. The lounge is elegantly furnished with a Victorian flair. The highlight here is the English High Tea that's served daily from 3.30pm - 5.30pm. The spread is mouth watering and extensive from pies to pastries. The bar at the Royal Livingstone is impressive to look at and very comfortable too. Lots of history on the walls, a case of Cuban cigars, and a well stocked inventory. I enjoyed several evenings here with a salad and a good glass of wine. The hotel has 6 computers for use that are hooked up to the internet in a small "business room". A large screen TV also lives in this room. It's fine for a quick e-mail check but you really want to spend your time outside! If you need to access the internet from your room, you pay quite a bit extra for Wifi, which is not always reliable. The shop, "Royal Livingstone Collection", has some nice curios and souvenirs, along with postcards and clothing. The Zambezi Sun, ten minutes walk away, has more shops that offer handmade crafts at cheaper prices, and a bank. The Spa offers a good menu of treatments including deep cleansing facials, invigorating massages and body and beauty treatments such as waxing, wraps, manicures and pedicures. The gym offers some fitness classes along with a host of fitness machines.

060-CR2511: French chef Alexandre Coupy, the executive head chef of the Royal Livingstone Hotel, travelled to Lusaka specifically to prepare a gourmet of French meals as part of the Francophonie Week. The 41-year-old, who came to Zambia over three years ago, said it was an honor to present French cuisine during the Francophonie Week, which he prepared at the Southern Sun in Lusaka. He also explained how he became a cook. "I started (cooking) when I was 15. My family had a restaurant in France, and I used to go in the kitchen, not really to cook, but it was the atmosphere; I always loved the atmosphere in the kitchen. And then at 15 I started to work and I really enjoyed it," he said. Coupy underwent French military service in Djibouti. And it was there that his love for Africa was kindled. "I did my French military service - in France we do military service - in Djibouti and I fell in love with Africa. After that I knew one day or another I would come back to Africa," he said. After working in South Africa for 12 years, Coupy applied for the position of chef at the scenic Royal Livingstone Hotel. He arrived in Zambia in November 2007 with his wife and their two young children. "Zambia is home for me. My second born started to walk in Zambia, and the first-born, she started school here in Zambia, and that will always stay in their minds hopefully. Hopefully they will remember. We have a house in South Africa, but the children say 'no, no, let's go back home' because they consider Livingstone their home. Their best memories are in Livingstone; Most of their friends are in Livingstone, home is Livingstone." For the Francophonie Week, Coupy says he had prepared several traditional French meals, as well as some with a Zambian touch. "I try to do traditional French dishes, with Zambian ingredients, which I think is very good. Duck in France is very popular; lamb is very popular; beef is a very popular dish, some French soup as well, some snail and oyster. Those are very nice and exciting; nothing too complicated, but good." "I think it's very good for me to be involved in the Francophonie Week. I feel very much honored to have been called to prepare the food for it," he said. He says he has made effort to train more cooks in other cuisines. "We train in international cuisine because, you know, we need to train people more in international cuisine, not just French. We do Egyptian food, Italian food, we've got some German dishes, and we've got a very good Zambian menu as well. You need to prepare local meals, but you to do international as well," he says. Royal Livingstone Hotel is a very popular getaway for tourists, catering for a variety of dishes from all over the world. Coupy says despite the busy atmosphere that characterizes the hotel's kitchen, he has a dedicated team of chefs and cooks with whom he works. "When you have a good team, it's easy, simple as that. When you have people who are willing, who want to work, it's easy. I've got very good chefs in the kitchen, good guys (who) really want to learn. Some do a lot of hours and never complain, get satisfaction and they bring that into the kitchen and I think that for me is a big plus. It's been such a great pleasure for me."

061-CR2437: Royal Livingstone Hotel Cultural Animator.  The Royal Livingstone Hotel comprises 173 spacious en-suite guestrooms, each with its own private veranda, stretched along the river bank. All guestrooms are luxuriously furnished, with crisp white linen and large comfortable beds to welcome and offer the perfect sanctuary to retire to, after a day spent exploring the mysteries and challenges of this remarkable retreat. Bathrooms feature spacious showers and Victorian style baths, with wildlife pencil sketches adorning the cool ivory-washed walls, reflecting the textures and moods of the Zambezi River.

062-CR2463:  Inside Royal Livingstone Hotel.  The Royal Livingstone Hotel is named in honor of the explorer Dr. David Livingstone, and it's interior design reflects the elegance of days gone bye using an African architectural style. The Royal Livingstone is a luxurious 5 star plus Hotel situated on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls. The hotel stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River, just a short walk to the entrance of The Victoria Falls. The Royal Livingstone Hotel consists of 17 colonial-style buildings, with large verandas. The main hotel incorporates the lounge, a restaurant and a bar. When you visit the five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel, you can expect nothing less than the highest level of service and enjoy a myriad of activities. You can also expect to enjoy luxury accommodation at this beautiful hotel near Victoria Falls – ensuring your holiday is one etched with memories never to be forgotten. The Kololo tribe living in the area in the 1800s named the falls Mosi-Oa-Tunya, which translates to “The Smoke that Thunders”. When you visit this mighty spectacle, you will truly appreciate the natural wonder of the water thundering down, creating an illusion of smoke billowing up into the air. This world-famous cascade of water provides the baseline for your journey into colonial sophistication at the Royal Livingstone Hotel. Accommodation in such close proximity to Victoria Falls affords stunning views and allows you to relax completely and soak up the natural beauty surrounding you.

063-CR2457: One of the wooden sculptures that decorate the Royal Livingstone Hotel.  The Royal Livingstone Hotel comprises 173 spacious en-suite guestrooms, each with its own private veranda, stretched along the river bank. All guestrooms are luxuriously furnished, with crisp white linen and large comfortable beds to welcome and offer the perfect sanctuary to retire to, after a day spent exploring the mysteries and challenges of this remarkable retreat. Bathrooms feature spacious showers and Victorian style baths, with wildlife pencil sketches adorning the cool ivory-washed walls, reflecting the textures and moods of the Zambezi River.  These colonial-styled rooms come in different types; 1 Presidential Suite, 3 Luxury Suites, 54 Luxury King rooms, 113 Luxury Twin rooms, and 2 Luxury Paraplegic rooms. Standard room features include air-conditioning, babysitting services, cots, dry-cleaning & laundry, electronic safe, hairdryer, radio on TV set, room service, satellite TV, and telephone. Other facilities, depending on the room type, include a spa bath, lunge area, and wet bar. Wining and dining facilities are available. Guests have a choice of three restaurants; The Royal Livingstone Dining Room, The Lounge, and The Sundeck, where they can either dine inside the hotel, or on the outside overlooking the glorious Zambezi River. Conference facilities are available, with an enormous yet sophisticated conferencing centre which caters for up to 450 delegates. The conference centre can be subdivided into separate areas depending on the requirements of the delegation. Guests may pass lazy days on the magnificent sundeck overlooking the Zambezi as it flows relentlessly to the Falls; experiencing tranquility, enjoying a G’nT or cocktail as the African sun sinks behind rolling hills, sending ripples of gold and amber across the river waters. The plush Royal Livingstone Hotel is set in the lush riverine belt on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Perched on the forested area upstream of the mighty Victoria Falls which thunders into the Batoka Gorge, this 5-star hotel exudes the elegance and luxury of an earlier, more courteous age.

064-CR0137: Royal Livingstone Hotel room.  The Royal Livingstone Hotel comprises 173 spacious en-suite guestrooms 113 with twin beds, and 54 with king-size beds, each with its own private veranda, stretched along the river bank. All guestrooms are luxuriously furnished, with crisp white linen and large comfortable beds to welcome and offer the perfect sanctuary to retire to, after a day spent exploring the mysteries and challenges of this remarkable retreat. Bathrooms feature spacious showers and Victorian style baths, with wildlife pencil sketches adorning the cool ivory-washed walls, reflecting the textures and moods of the Zambezi River. Three suites offer a separate lounge and bedroom, while the Presidential Suite offers an additional, optional separate bedroom. There are two rooms with disabled facilities. Room facilities: All guestrooms are elegantly decorated. Each room has large beds with white linen, satellite television, air-condition, mini bar, mini safe, telephone, tea and coffee-making facilities. Bathrooms are in Victorian style with shower and bath. Dining & Bars: The Royal Livingstone Dining Room. This fine à la carte restaurant is a delightful mixture of modern sophistication and old-world style, offering a unique top-class breakfast, ‘alfresco” lunches and a dinner à la carte menu with a dazzling array of dishes from the river and ocean as well as bush and game fare. The Lounge: Light lunch is served “alfresco” on the veranda overlooking the rolling lawns and the Zambezi River. Light refreshments are also served throughout the day. Traditional High Tea is served daily under the watchful eye of David Livingstone, himself….

065-CR1554: Decoration inside Royal Livingstone Hotel. The Falls Resort in Zambia enjoys a magnificent location along the Zambezi River only a ten minutes walk away from the world famous Victoria Falls which is a World Heritage Site and Natural Wonder of the World.  The Falls Resort comprises two hotels, namely the Zambezi Sun Hotel as well as the legendary five star Royal Livingstone Hotel.  A complete refurbishment of the hotels spacious rooms ensured that the Royal Livingstone Hotel remains one of the finest hotel accommodation choices on the African continent.  The hotel's convenient services, its exclusive facilities (swimming pool, restaurants, conference venues as well as the herb and rose garden etc) combined with luxurious and comfortable accommodation provide travelers with unforgettable memories of their African adventure at the breath taking Victoria Falls. The five star Royal Livingstone Hotel at the Victoria Falls of Zambia features a total of 173 en-suite and well appointed hotel rooms.  The guest rooms and suites are set in 17 river bank residences where guests can enjoy comfort, luxury and relaxation during their stay in this extraordinary setting.  Each of the rooms reflect Victorian elegance combined with African decor with a private terrace overlooking the mighty Zambezi River.  High quality reading lights in the rooms, Wi-Fi Internet access, space and exclusive bathroom amenities provide that little extra needed to make for an unforgettably pleasant stay. Convenient services allow guests to truly enjoy being pampered during their holiday at Zambia's Royal Livingstone Hotel.  Concierge agents and butlers are available to assist with even the most demanding wishes, be it special roses for a wedding anniversary celebration or assisting with booking one of the most thrilling activities which are on offer here, including helicopter trips over the Victoria Falls, a romantic Sunset Cruise or Elephant Back Safaris.

066-CR2454: Fine decoration inside Royal Livingstone Hotel. The Royal Livingstone is a serene and gracious refuge from the heat of the African sun. The 173 luxurious rooms with their comfortable furnishings are tastefully decorated in the soft earth tones of the bushveld, with spreading views of the river and Acacia forest. Guests may pass lazy days on the magnificent sun deck overlooking the Zambezi as it flows relentlessly to the Falls, and enjoy fine dining in the restaurant or on the long verandah overlooking the gardens. In the warm smile of your personal butler, or in the simple luxury of a cane chair, you will find an Africa that has all but vanished. For the discerning traveler in search of luxury, extravagance and sheer indulgence, the Royal Livingstone Hotel will set your heart on fire and soothe your soul. Set in the lush riverine belt and touching the banks of the great Zambezi River, this earthy Eden provides a secluded haven. There is a highly sophisticated and flexible conference centre, able to cater for a variety of international functions and themed banquets. It offers conference facilities that match and exceed many of its size in the world. The innate heritage of the land offers guests nail-biting experiences ranging from water-rafting to bungee jumping, a paradise for wildlife lovers with daily land and water safaris, and exceptional angling and fly-fishing. This magnificent Falls Resort allows you the chance to be at one with the uninhibited majesty of the Victoria Falls, a time to regroup, to find your inner core and to leave enriched and empowered, promising to return. The resort is situated in the 46-hectare Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Wildlife Park, which fringes the Zambezi River. Victoria Falls is recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

067-CR1577: Royal Livingstone Hotel swimming pool. At The Royal Livingstone Hotel, you can expect nothing less than the best service. The aim is to exceed your expectations, allowing you to rediscover romance and luxury during your vacation. You could enjoy the rays of the African sun around the focal point of the hotel's scenery - the sparkling and inviting Victoria-themed swimming pool. At the end of the day, you could wander down to the sundeck to gaze at the sunset and sip at sundowners. The Royal Spa is positioned quite uniquely, on the banks of the Zambezi River. Open gazeboes with stunning views of the river only add to the ambience. The Royal Livingstone Hotel is a Sun International Hotel, meaning you can expect nothing less than the highest level of service and enjoy a myriad of superior activities. In everything we do at The Royal Livingstone Hotel, we aim to exceed your expectations, allowing you to escape into the romance and luxury of your journey. The Royal Livingstone Hotel is excellently situated along the Zambezi River, within close proximity of Livingstone town and Victoria Falls.

068-CR2520: Garden and main entrance of the Royal Livingstone Hotel.  Stretching along the banks of the Zambezi River, consists of a series of 17 colonial-style buildings with deep verandas, set amidst indigenous trees and plants. The main hotel is a sequence of thatch-roofed buildings and incorporates the lounge, restaurant and bar. A stone’s throw away from the mighty Victoria Falls, the Royal Livingstone overlooks the smooth waters just before it plunges over the legendary waterfall creating a permanent water spray. The hotel has already been named as one of the 'Leading Hotels in the World' for its exceptional levels of service, fine dining, comfort and hospitality. It is a five-star colonial style, luxury hotel which has been designed to capture the opulence and elegance of times gone by.  173 spacious guest rooms are located in two-story clusters and are elegantly furnished with en-suite bathrooms which have a roomy shower and a Victorian bath. Each room also has a private verandah, overlooking the Zambezi River or the hotel's rolling lawns. There is a sophisticated dining room, or alternatively guests can enjoy meals al-fresco, by the pool or under the acacia trees. The Royal Livingstone is excellently situated for guests to take advantage of the many activities available on the Zambezi River, and around the Falls. Helicopter flights, bungee jumps and white water rafting are just a few examples. Alternatively guests can take their time to sit back and relax by the pool. The swimming pool visually links the river with the terraces of the hotel, with a sweeping timber deck in the swirling waters of the Zambezi. The resort's deep, shaded verandah, offers an uninterrupted view of the Zambezi and is the ideal place to curl up with a book from the well-stocked library.

069-CR2529: Royal Livingstone Hotel Cultural Animator. The main entrance. He show some wooden crafts. The Royal Livingstone Hotel provides choice aplenty thanks to a large selection of attractive rooms. With 5 stars, this is the last word in luxurious Livingstone accommodation.  Common areas including a restaurant, a bar/lounge, and even a casino, are accessible at The Royal Livingstone Hotel. Swimming facilities include: an outdoor swimming pool. If you want to buy things during your trip, a gift shop is part of this accommodation. Services offered at this destination include a baby-sitting service, a translation service and a bell boy service. A conference space and a business center are part of the business facilities, as is a secretarial service. Book into one of the 173 rooms that are present here. Free parking is another useful option when staying at The Royal Livingstone Hotel. The Royal Livingstone Hotel has climate control via an air conditioning system. Advantages of the rooms here are services like a wake-up service and a daily housekeeping service. All rooms in this hotel come inclusive of a video player. There are rooms here that are equipped with a coffee/tea maker.  

070-CR2231: Aerial views of Mukuni village. Zambia. Mukuni, 9.6 km (6.0 mi) to the south-east of present day Livingstone, was the largest village in the area before Livingstone was founded. Its Baleya inhabitants, originally from the Rozwi culture in Zimbabwe, were conquered by Chief Mukuni who came from the Congo in the 18th century. Another group of Baleya under Chief Sekute lived near the river west of the town. The most numerous people in the area, though, were the Batoka under Chief Musokotwane based at Senkobo, 30 km (19 mi) north. These are southern Tonga people but are culturally and linguistically similar to the Baleya and grouped with them as the 'Tokaleya'. The Tokaleya paid tribute to the Lozi of Barotseland but in 1838 the Kololo, a Sotho tribe from South Africa displaced by Zulu wars, migrated north and conquered the Lozi. The Kololo placed chiefs of their subordinate Subiya people of Sesheke over the Tokaleya. In 1855 Scottish missionary traveller David Livingstone became the first European to be shown the Zambezi in the Livingstone vicinity and to see Victoria Falls when he was taken there by the Subiya/Kololo Chief Sekeletu. In 1864 the Lozi threw off their Kololo masters and re-established their dominance over the Subiya and the Tokaleya in the vicinity of the Falls, which became the south-eastern margin of the greater Barotseland kingdom.

071-CR2049: Monkey outdoor the rooms at Royal Livingstone Hotel. Three types of monkey occur in Zambia. The vervet monkey is very common throughout a variety of woodland types. Moving in troops of about 20, they feed on young shoots, seeds and fruit but occasionally will eat insects and eggs. The blue monkey and Maloney’s monkey have occasionally been sighted in Luangwa, but their numbers are small. Bush baby, called so because of its loud wailing scream, the bushbaby is an elusive tree creature, usually only spotted on night drives and then only its red eyes can be seen high up in the trees. They spend their days in hollow trees and forage among the treetops at night for insects and fruit. Very agile in trees but awkward on the ground, hopping in a frog-like fashion. They are usually solitary, but may group together to form small and temporary communities. The chacma baboon and the yellow baboon occur in Zambia. They are both gregarious animals, occurring in troops of about 50 or more, feeding on the ground and in trees on fruit, seeds, rhizomes and insects. The basic unit is a harem – one dominant male surrounding himself with a number of breeding females. Their mating is frequent but for very short bursts at a time. They breed at any time of the year and their gestation period is about 6 months. They have a strictly disciplined society, each member of the troop knowing his own status and ruled over by an elite group of elders. Any member of the clan who tries to usurp another’s position is taken to task by the dominant males who gang up against the offender resulting in an explosion of screaming and squealing. The degree of dominance among ruling members of the clan is shown by the angle at which they hold their tails: the higher the angle, the more dominant the male.

072-CR2062: Craft shop next to the Victoria Falls entrance. Head to one of the town’s open-air African craft markets and learn the best ways to barter from your guide! Browse the stalls, admiring one-of-a-kind handicrafts and traditional souvenirs such as African tribal art, and shop for keepsakes to take home. The market is near the center of Victoria Falls, so enjoy some free time to explore it independently after your market visit.Visit Victoria Falls town on a day trip from Kasane, discovering the delights of its namesake waterfalls on a rainforest walk and exploring an African crafts market! Putting the spotlight on the impressive waterfalls, the rainforest walk takes in some of the finest vantage points to ogle them from, such as the Devil’s Cataract at Victoria Falls’ lowest point. Hone your bartering skills on an afternoon visit to the craft market, and then enjoy some free time to explore town. Upgrade to include a traditional Zimbabwean lunch halfway through the day. Leave your Kasane hotel and travel east to Victoria Falls, the small town named after the impressive waterfalls wedged between Zambia and Zimbabwe. After roughly 1.5 hours on the road, arrive in town and stop at the rainforest that borders the falls for a morning walk.  Amble along the rainforest trails with your guide while learning all about the world-famous Victoria Falls. Listed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the waterfall is also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning 'smoke that thunders' in Kololo, attesting to the mist and dense spray that surrounds it.  Hear the powerful waters of the Zambezi River pounding the series of basalt gorges as you wander between viewpoints, scouting out the best photo opportunities. With width and height taken into account, Victoria Falls is the world’s largest waterfall, and your guide will introduce you to its most impressive vantage points. Highlights include the Devil’s Cataract – a natural pool that marks the falls’ lowest point – as well as the Boiling Pot, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls and Livingstone Island.

073-CR1741: The market at Mukuni Village is a gem of an African bazaar near the Victoria Falls in Zambia. Shopper and vendor can interact over the perfect Zambian gift in the relatively new purpose-built market shopping mall which was created in appreciation of the cultural value of the site and the people that have used it over the years. Enjoy shopping here for your Livingstone gifts and souvenirs. The craftspeople are happy for you to shop around and to bargain! In fact they recommend you walk through the entire market before you commence buying, ensuring you get the best price and the best quality for your gifts from Zambia. Look out for individual and unusual pieces – they do occasionally have valuable antiques. The market is open daily. For decades this place has been a major tourist attraction in Livingstone. Gift choices in Livingstone, Zambia include various indigenous artefacts, including carvings of human figurines, animals, leather goods, bead works, drums, spears and walking sticks, all created by local artists and craftspeople use local raw materials. This market provides livelihoods for hundreds of people from Livingstone and the surrounding areas. Mukuni Village has a remarkable history. Built in 1905, it is the oldest garden park in Zambia. In that year the Paramount Chief Lewanika of the Lozi people of western Zambia visited the Victoria Falls for the official opening of the Zambezi Bridge. It was at Mukuni Park site that he mounted an exhibition of Barotse arts and crafts for his meeting in Livingstone with the Duke and Duchess of Connaught. The Chief decreed that the site should be kept as an open access area for African peope who then had restricted access to the new settlement of Livingstone, which was reserved for European settlers. The site became known as the Barotse Centre and it has been used for more than 100 years as a trading area for crafts, and as a green market. The permanent market stalls were built relatively recently.

074-CR1595: Crafts made in Mukuni Village and sold at the Mukuni Village curios craft market. For centuries the Leya people in Mukuni Village have lived a peaceful, traditional tribal life but like much of Southern Africa the village has been decimated by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Being in a tourist catchment area, close to Livingstone and the Zimbabwian border Mukuni is vulnerable. However Chief Mukuni, along with The Butterfly Tree is working hard to advance the education; which he believes is the key to overcoming the problems caused by this devastating disease. It is possible to go on  a cultural tour of  Mukuni Village and see a traditional way of life. We encourage visitors to first contact The Butterfly Tree so that we can arrange a personal tour. If you have already made arrangements please take time to visit our projects when looking round the village, so that you can see first hand the difference that has been made at the school, the health center and within the community. As a result of the visit numerous people from around the world have offered support, some sponsor an orphan, others have funded a bore hole and provided vital funds for our malaria prevention program.

075-CR1642: Chief Mukuni's Village Cultural Tour. Making local crafts. This ethnic village is home to the Leya people, or Tokaleya as they are now call themselves, and has been in existence since the eleventh century, and is thus a working cultural village tour. Dr David Livingstone visited this village on more than one occasion, sitting under a giant mango tree in the middle of the square, to meet with the current chief . As the Chief viewed David Livingstone as an unbeliever, he was not allowed into the chief’s compound. It was also two men from this village, long time retainers of David Livingstone, who carried his body all the way to the coast after he died near Lake Bangweulu. The descendants of these men still live in the village. When Dr David Livingstone or Munali as he was known to Africans, met with Munokalya Mukuni (Royal of Royals), neither of them realized they shared one thing in common – the name “Livingstone”. One of the rituals during coronation transforms the Mukuni title holder into the “Living Stone”. And when he dies his death is officially announced as the “Living Stone is Shattered”. Chief Mukuni jointly rules the Victoria Falls region with a queen known as Be Dyango. Thus the Mukuni monarch practices a dual kinship system between male and female lineages. Because of this dual rule arrangement which is present even at village level, gender imbalance is on a comparatively small scale in this culture.

076-CR1731: Landscape of Mukuni Village.  Chief Makuni invites visitors to his village, home to the Leya people. This is a unique opportunity to see how the local people live in a working village, not one built for tourists. Approximately 6000 people live here and a visit is a fascinating insight into their life style. A member of the village shows visitors around and they can see how traditional huts are built and decorated, take a look inside, meet the residents and see the locals at work. It is found in family management level but is well balanced in rural power sharing. In this culture, it is the women who decide and manage the cultural issues including land allocation whereas men carry management of the day to day running of the village. The current Chief Mukuni is a modern and enterprising man who is promoting tourism in his area while trying to minimise the adverse impact it might have on his people’s way of life

077-CR1777: Inhabitants of Mukuna Village. In the Kazungula District of Southern Province lies the rural Mukuni Village. It is just seven kilometres from the world heritage site of Victoria Falls and was founded in the thirteenth century by Bedyango the Leya Tribal Matriach, it was originally called Gundu. However it was renamed in the seventeenth century to Mukuni Village after and in honour of Mukokalya Mukuni N’gombe. Mukuni Village is sitauted on a dry, sandy knoll and has a population in excess of 7000, it is the main village of the Mukuni Chiefdom. The soil is relatively infertile and they cannot rely on agriculture; therefore they have turned to tourism. Mukuni Village is now a tourist destination, introducing an insight into the Leya people’s cultural inheritance; with a wonderful developing curios market, selling intricate wood carvings, stoneware, jewellery and baskets. There are over 100 villages within the Mukuni Chiefdom, with twelve schools and three health centres at Mukuni, Songwe and Katapazi.  July 2013 saw the completion of a fourth clinic at Mahalululu. Mukuni high school and the special education unit, both funded by The Butterfly Tree, were the first rural schools in the district. WE have advanced a number of schools by adding classrooms and bore holes and built an entire new school at Mailami. We work in partnership with the Mukuni Development Trust, which takes care of the Chiefdom’s administration to assist the people.

078-CR1677: One of the inhabitants of Mukuni Village bringing a water jerican. He's wearing a Greenpeace t-shirt. Mukuni Village – A unique Cultural Experience that gives the visitor an insight into modern, yet distinctly timeless, way of life of the Toka Leya people that live there. This village is made up of the homesteads of over 1000 families and has a total population of some   6 000 Zambian people. The Homesteads are positioned on the crest of one of the ancient sand dunes that are found in the region. With the increase in rainfall in the last 100 000 years these dunes are well covered with vegetation and woodlands. The people of Mukuni are clearly respectful of the environment and as such the village, which covers some 20 hectares, has many lovely trees and a lot of these have been encouraged and probably planted by the residents as they provide fruit and shade, as well as ensure the stability of the sandy soils. Located on the south eastern side of the village, are the Homesteads of the leaders of the community.  This includes a large area enclosed with a reed fence called the palace, and it is within here that the much revered Chief Mukuni and his second in charge Chieftainess Bediango  call home, when they are resident. Near to this palace are also found the governing structures of the large village including a rudimentary court room and some jail cells. These combine to form the entire disciplinary and ruling region of the community. Due to the fact that this is a focal point for visitors to the village the Mukuni curio market is also found here, together with the tourist centre and guide station.

079-CR1727: Landscape of Mukuni Village with some houses.   As one drives through the village to the structures mentioned above, visitors are treated to some insight into the modern lifestyle of the residents of Mukuni village.  There are stores, bars and cell phone  shops. The rather strange combination of world renowned brands flashed amongst the basic housing and buildings, makes for  an interesting mix. To the western edge of the village one finds the schooling systems have  developed over recent years. Both primary and secondary schools are well established and provide for over 1500 students. The structure and curriculum are excellent and the teaching bodies well committed. It is also enjoyable to see the sporting facilities provided with a number of football fields, soccer being the obvious favourite. It is not far from these schools that one finds a fairly modern clinic and two large churches. As is the case with the majority of Zambia the community is generally Christian and church attendance high.  These have played a positive role in the development of the community over the last 100 years. Along the periphery of the village, as one descends the edge of the large hill that the village is set upon, we find that the community has worked together to develop a well established farming system. This includes maize and sorghum, as well as the rearing of cattle, chickens and goats.

080-CR1631: Crafts made in Mukuni Village. Mukuni Village is a Royal village which was founded around the 13th Century. It is home to about 7,000 Leya people. The chief has invited visitors into his village to get a glimpse of how his people have lived for generations and to learn a little about their traditional customs and beliefs. The Chief's guides and the people of the village are more than happy to show visitors their huts and take you inside, explain how they are built and decorated, introduce you to various craftsmen and women at work and ask you to taste some traditional foods and beer. This is a working village, not a purpose built tourist attraction, and it is a privilege to be welcomed into their lifestyle. Mukuni is our neighbouring traditional village which is over 700 years old and still ruled by its traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Chief Mukuni, Monarch of the Victoria Falls. During a visit to Mukuni you will get to see the Real Zambia; you are very much welcome to visit the school and the clinic (amongst others).

081-CR1697: A girl in her garden in the Mukuni Village. The current Mukuni village lies just seven kilometres from Victoria Falls and is the permanent traditional headquarters of the Mukuni Leya people, with an approximate population of 8000. The Leya people of Chief Sekute live to the west of Livingstone towards Kazungula. Chief Mukuni chooses one of his female relatives to be the Priestess of the tribe - usually a sister or aunt. The Chief, along with his counsellors, arbitrates cases involving local politics and other problems. The Priestess, called Bedyango, is responsible for religious affairs, and receives reports of births and deaths. The Leya worship their dead ancestors, Chief Mukuni being their representative on earth. There are several ceremonies which are performed at the village at certain times of the year and in cases of disease or drought. It is said that the tribe brought with them a stone - Kechejo - from Kabwe. This stone was put at the site of the Mukuni village. The story of Kechejo is that it will disappear under the ground in times of severe drought; it will also raise itself higher out of the ground in times of good harvest. The Victoria Falls region has been a place of worship to the Leya people for centuries. The Lwiindi Ceremony or Spray Ceremony is performed every year just before the rains. At the Lwiindi Ceremony, the chief leads his people down through the spray to the Victoria Falls gorge, where they offer sacrifices to their ancestors in thanks for the rain, accompanied by traditional dances and rituals. Mukuni Village is sitauted on a dry, sandy knoll and the soil is poor and relatively infertile and they have therefore embraced to tourism, including cultural tours of the village.

082-CR1906: Cultural entertainers black people dressed in authentic naked african warriors in Zambezi Sun Hotel. Located on the edge of the eastern cataract of the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi Sun Hotel reflects the richness and diversity of the country’s heritage; unpretentious, fun and welcoming, it captures the very soul of Africa. From the moment you step inside, expect to be greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Like a glittering gem, The Zambezi Sun Hotel features warm and earthy architecture, inspired by an African village. The simple finishes are highlighted in bright mosaics and fabrics, as well as intoxicating Zambian artworks and accessories. Designed with guest’s comfort and convenience in mind, the Zambezi Sun Hotel is set to turn your stay into a memorable experience. Opened in 2001, the 3-star Zambezi Sun is a sprawling resort hotel with an informal atmosphere, and a colorful, fun design throughout. The closest hotel to the Victoria Falls, it's really all about the location as you're just a few minutes walk from one of the Natural Wonders of the World. The Zambezi Sun is a large hotel, but it has a superb location and when compared to it's nearby sister hotel, is relatively inexpensive and we think it offers good value for money for a short stay at the Falls. A big plus is that entrance to the Falls is included for guests staying here.

083-CR1807: A woman breastfeeding her son in Mukuni Village. Zambia. Zambia launches campaign to promote exclusive breastfeeding. At the launch of the Government of Zambia’s new advocacy campaign for infant and young child feeding, the country’s Minister of Health had a clear message for every mother: Exclusively breastfeed your newborn for the child’s first six months of life. “Exclusive breastfeeding means giving the baby only breast milk for the first six months, and no other liquids or solids, not even water unless medically indicated,” said Minister of Health Kapembwa Simbao. “It is therefore crucial that breastfeeding our children becomes the norm in Zambia, because breast milk plays a very important role in securing the health of children and is essential for overall child survival.” To help improve the nutritional status of every Zambian child, the ministry’s new advocacy campaign is emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding, starting within the first hour of birth and continuing exclusively for the first six months. The national campaign aims to increase the exclusive breastfeeding rate substantially. “This gathering today is a significant step in Zambia’s fight against malnutrition. The launch of the mass media campaign against malnutrition, with a focus on exclusive breastfeeding of children under six months of age, is commendable step by the government and partners to make a difference for these children and to save their lives,” said UNICEF Deputy Representative in Zambia Elspeth Erickson.

 

084-CR1856: A girl with braids in Mukuni Village. The Mikuni Village is about 30 minutes from Livingstone, home to approximately 1100 Leya people. It's a very peaceful, civil, and clean village founded in the 13th century. We strolled throughout the village, learning about how they live, work, and commune with one another. They build their own tools, crafts, and homes. Their crafts are sold at the end of the village tours where you really have to spice up your bargaining skill! Mukuni Village is an authentic tribal village where thousands of people live and work. In July of each year the Leya people partake in the colorful Lwiindi Ceremony. The local people believe the spirits of their ancestors still dwell in the gorges of the Falls and during the Lwiindi, they offer sacrifices to them for rain.

085-CR1931: Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls. Even though we never entertained the thought of doing this, we literally witnessed people doing the big dive from the Livingstone Memorial Bridge. Even though we seemed to be some distance away in Zimbabwe's walkways, we could still hear the screams of bungy jumpers through the background noise of Victoria Falls thundering in the background. I have to believe this is perhaps one of the crazier ways of seeing Victoria Falls (maybe upside down) since we could see jumpers were getting sprayed by the falls as well as being suspended seemingly within arms reach of the turbulent Zambezi River. This isn't our type of excursion, but I'm sure there are adrenaline junkies out there who live for this stuff. The original, the one and only, the must do, the ultimate thrill! 111m of Pure Adrenalin! Off the famous Victoria Falls Bridge, with a spectacular backdrop of the majestic Victoria Falls, move to the edge, arms out and 5-4-3-2-1- BUNGEE leaving yourself plummeting towards the rumbling waters of the rapids of the Zambezi River and let the adrenaline flow. For the more experienced, speak to your Jump Master and make it more adventurous and action packed by doing an Ankle-tied Back-flip or Star Elevator…

086-CR1960: Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls over Zambezi River. Surely Bungee Jumping 111 meters off the Victoria falls Bridge has to be one of the most challenging, terrifying, crazy things to do. I have not built up the courage yet but from all accounts.... It’s a must do. Thanks to Shearwater, a leading adventure company in Zimbabwe, I got the chance to fulfill my bungee destiny by leaping off the Victoria Falls Bridge. The jump takes you head first into the Batoka Gorge, where white-water rafters below try desperately to stay upright as they ride through grade 5 rapids. The Victoria Falls are situated right behind the bridge and you can feel the spray on the bridge when the water is high. The bridge is in no-man's land, marking the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. It was built in 1905 and is an engineering marvel (that you get lots of time to appreciate once you've been winched back after your jump). When people aren't driving to and from Zambia/Zimbabwe, or bungee jumping off the bridge during the day, elephants sometimes use it to cross over at night. Some say it's the best Bungee jump in the world...it’s not the highest, that honour goes to Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa which is an incredible 233m. Maybe it is because of the backdrop of the Victoria Falls or maybe just the fact that you are free falling down towards the Mighty Zambezi. Whatever it is, it is a massive adrenaline rush!! There is only one company that operates the Bungee Jump and they are called the Zambezi Adrenaline company. They are based in Zambia and are affiliated to Shearwater in Zimbabwe. If you are not brave enough to do this alone, you can always try to convince a buddy to leap with you and do the tandem jump. First timers normally do a standard head first dive, but the more experienced try all sorts of flips, backflips and inward tucks etc. Pre booked and paid bungee jumpers are entitled to a full refund up until they sign the indemnity form on the bridge and start to strap up, you are then past the point of no return.

087-CR1993: People around Victoria Falls Bridge. The Victoria Falls Bridge crosses the Zambezi River just below the Victoria Falls and is built over the Second Gorge of the falls. As the river is the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the bridge links the two countries and has border posts on the approaches to both ends, at the towns of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Livingstone, Zambia. For more than 50 years the bridge was crossed regularly by passenger trains as part of the principal route between the then Northern Rhodesia, southern Africa and Europe. Freight trains carried mainly copper ore (later, copper ingots) and timber out of Zambia, and coal into the country. The age of the bridge and maintenance problems have led to traffic restrictions at times. Trains cross at less than walking pace and trucks were limited to 30 t, necessitating heavier trucks to make a long diversion via the Kazungula Ferry or Chirundu Bridge. The limit was raised after repairs in 2006,but more fundamental rehabilitation or construction of a new bridge has been aired. During the Rhodesian UDI crisis and Bush War the bridge was frequently closed (and regular passenger services have not resumed successfully). In 1975, the bridge was the site of unsuccessful peace talks when the parties met in a train carriage poised above the gorge for nine and a half hours. In 1980 freight and road services resumed and have continued without interruption except for maintenance.

088-CR2026: A woman controls the traffic between Zambia and Zimbabwe.  A STOP sign indicates that we are entering Zambia. Today one of the Victoria Falls Bridge's main attraction are historical guided tours focusing on the construction of the bridge and which include a walking tour under the main deck. On the Zambian side there is a small museum about the bridge which is free to enter and contains cafe selling refreshments. Also located on the bridge is the Shearwater 111 meters (364 ft) bungee jump including a bungee swing and zip-line. Concerns about safety of the attraction were raised in late 2011 after the bungee's cord snapped and a young Australian woman fell 24 meters (79 ft) into the fast flowing river with many crocodiles. The bridge was originally referred to as the Great Zambesi or Zambezi bridge, later becoming known as the Victoria Falls Bridge. The bridge was the brainchild of Cecil Rhodes, part of his grand and unfulfilled Cape to Cairo railway scheme, even though he never visited the falls and died before construction of the bridge began. Rhodes is recorded as instructing the engineers to "build the bridge across the Zambezi where the trains, as they pass, will catch the spray of the Falls". It was designed by George Anthony Hobson of consultants Sir Douglas Fox and Partners, not as is often stated, Sir Ralph Freeman, the same engineer who contributed to the design of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the time of the design of the Victoria Falls Bridge, Freeman was an assistant in the firm who, in those pre-computer days, was calculating stresses.

 

089-CR2944:  Microlight flights over Victoria Falls. Airstrip and pilots. Viewing the majestic Victoria Falls from above in an open cockpit with the wind in your hair and the sun in your face is an awe-inspiring experience. A microlight flight over the Falls is truly an adventure like no other. It can't be explained. It must be experienced! The "weight-shift" microlights carry a pilot and one passenger. Unfortunately, you won't be allowed to bring your camera, but the Microlights have a unique wing-mounted camera so you'll still be able to take home some amazing pictures in the microlight with the beautiful scenery of the Falls behind you (available for seperate purchase). The 12-15 minute microlight flips ($160) offer an outstanding photographic opportunity to view the full breadth of Victoria Falls, the islands and neighbouring rainforests.  Spray blasts out of the chasm as the full volume of the Zambezi crashes down 108 metres.  The 25-30 minute microlight flights ($320) continue down the Batoka Gorge and include neighbouring wildlife areas in the Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe) or Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia).  Flights take place every day (weather permitting) from dawn to sunset. Minimum age is 6 years, maximum weight is 100kg.

090-CR2998: Dr. Livingstone A sculpture outside the museum.  The Livingstone Museum is located in the heart of the city of Livingstone.  Established in 1934, the Livingstone Museum is the oldest and largest of the four national museums in the country.  The museum holds a vast archaeological collection among which is evidence from the biggest trade market in central Africa and excavated finding of prehistoric Broken Hill man.  It also holds the largest collection of the biodiversity of Zambia as well as a rich ethnographic collection dating back to the early 20th century.  The museum also holds a vast collection of David Livingstone memorabilia, has one of the oldest libraries in the country and an extensive archive. The present Museum building was first opened in November 1950, although extensions have been added over the years. In 2003 the building underwent structural renovations and the public exhibitions were given a complete overhaul, bringing them up to date and enhancing them with modern and artistic ideas to make them more attractive to the visitor.

091-CR2560: Royal Livingstone Express luxury train. Fulfil your romantic fantasy, escape on a late afternoon train journey amidst the untamed natural Zambia bushveld. Sun International is proud to announce the inauguration of the Royal Livingstone Express, a joint venture between Sun International and Bushtracks Africa.  The Royal Livingstone Express is a unique dining experience combining the luxury of Sun International's Royal Livingstone hotel with the charm of rail travel. The train is an all inclusive luxury rail experience rooted in the nostalgia of a bygone era. Passengers travel leisurely as the sun sets.  This is a journey into a timeless world of grace, elegance and romance, where the natural splendour will stir your imagination and the luxurious comfort soothes your soul. This unique luxury rail restoration is an extension of the five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel. The train provides fine wining and dining as you travel through the picturesque Zambezi Valley in Pullman style coaches which have been lovingly restored to their former glory.  The Royal Livingstone Express consists of 5 air-conditioned carriages, 2 dining cars, a club/kitchen car, lounge car, and an observation car and is pulled by either a 10th class No. 156 or a 12th class No. 204 locomotive. One of the dining cars, The Wembley, was built by the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company, and went on display in London at the British Empire Exhibition in 1924. It was shipped to the Union of South Africa and entered service on 19th May 1926 and hence acquired the name - The Wembley.

092-CR2002: Stop sign at the Zambia and Zimbabwe border bridge. The Victoria Falls Bridge is 100 years old in 2005.  The Victoria Falls Bridge was the brainchild of Cecil Rhodes, a key feature in his dream of a Cape to Cairo railway, even though he never visited the Victoria Falls and died two years before the railway reached them - before construction of the Bridge had begun. The preliminary surveying of the ground for the bridge was made in 1900-01, during the time the Boer War was raging; communications southwards were cut, and the construction of the railway to Victoria Falls was much delayed, but never quite suspended, throughout military operations. The arena of the war did not include Rhodesia, and the work of railway construction never ceased throughout the whole period. In 1900 Rhodes was asked to write a forward for the book 'From Cape to Cairo' by Grogan and Sharp. Ewart Scott Grogan, together with Harry Sharp undertook the epic overland journey from the Cape to Cairo, although Grogan was the only one to complete the entire journey, and thus become the first man to achieve such an undertaking. They travelled by train, boat and other means where they could, but walked for much of their journey across the African continent. Inspired by reading Frederic Courtney Selous's 'A Hunter's Wanderings in Africa', Grogan set out to prove his worth and gain the hand of his love in marriage. Their journey took three years, Grogan reaching Cairo in 1900. Sir Charles Metcalfe, a close personal friend of Rhodes, followed his wishes and determined to locate the bridge just below the Falls. He carried out the preliminary examinations of the site in June 1901 before returning to Britain to raise funds for the project. In 2005 a major 100 year survey of the bridge was undertaken. Previous reports by officials from the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) had raised the danger posed by the bridge by heavy loads and it was closed to heavy traffic for over a year days to allow for emergency work. A report, published in January 2005 by NRZ highlighted "excessive vibrations being felt whenever a heavy truck transverses the bridge". During the restrictions trains crossed at less than walking pace and trucks were limited to a load of 30 tons, necessitating heavier trucks to make a long diversion via the Kazungula Ferry or Chirundu Bridge. The choice for engineers was either to reconstruct or reinforce the bridge, but they settled for reinforcement. Following the repairs costing US$1.7 million the bridge re-opened to heavy traffic on 15 June 2006, and can now sustain loads of up to 56 tons for the next five years. During this period, more repairs will be done to enable the bridge to survive another century. Replacement of the bridge with a similar modern structure has been estimated to cost over US$32 million. In November 2010 it was announced that a toll on the Victoria Falls Bridge was being considered in a bid to raise the necessary funds for maintenance. Recommendations made by international consultants have said it could last another 100 years if properly maintained. It has been estimated that more than US$1.9 million is needed to inject into the maintenance of the bridge - US$800,000 will be for the upgrade of the railway deck; US$300,000 for the upgrade of the footway deck and US$800,000 for the upgrade of the roadway deck. Owned originally by Rhodesia Railways, Victoria Falls Bridge is now jointly owned by the national railways of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is managed by the Emerged Railways Properties (Private) Limited (ERP), an interstate company jointly owned by the Governments of Zimbabwe and Zambia. There are no regular rail passenger services over the bridge today. However, steam hauled excursions in a historic dining saloon are offered daily between Victoria Falls station (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia). In addition, several luxury cruise trains make the journey from South Africa as far as Livingstone, crossing the bridge as part of their journey. Today the Victoria Falls Bridge is the location for the 111 metre Shearwater bungee jump, which started operations in 1993. The local Chief Mukuni appeared on the bridge in full ceremonial regalia, accompanied by most of the village, to take his turn to jump. After a few false starts he toppled into the void, to the accompaniment of wild cheers from the onlookers. It has been claimed that this feet should afford him a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the first African Chief to have bungeed in the history of the sport. Over 50,000 people have committed themselves to the thrill of jumping off the bridge without incident. The operation has now expanded to include a bungee swing and zip line. In 2010 a refurbished viewing platform, restaurant and bar, together with an interpretive museum, was opened on the Zambian side. The latest tourism activity on the bridge are interactive historical bridge tours, where groups are guided under the bridge using safety harnesses and ropes.

093-CR2935: Inside the restaurant railway carriage of Royal Livingstone Express luxury train. The ambiance of the dining carriage offers more than warm elegance. The sash windows allow for panoramic views of the passing parade, while the incandescent lighting adds intimate warmth from individual lamps on each table gently illuminating the beautifully detailed wooden interiors. The silver cutlery, crystal glassware and damask linen provide the ideal backdrop to the exquisite cuisine created by the Royal Livingstone Hotel chefs.  The journey begins when you're collected from the Royal Livingstone Hotel at 17h00 and transferred to the old Mulobezi Line Offices, where guests board the immaculate vintage first class Lounge carriage.  There are two dining cars with a seating capacity for 92 passengers and a fully equipped kitchen car to produce a 6-course gourmet dining experience. From departure the train moves directly onto the old Mulobezi Line, which has also been restored. It was once the largest privately owned railway network in the world and was set up by the Zambezi Sawmills in 1916.  The journey commences through Dambwa suburb towards the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, running parallel to the Zambezi River. Guests have the opportunity to catch glimpses of white rhino, buffalo, elephant and other wildlife. From there, the train crosses out of the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park over the Sinde River and comes to pause some 17 kilometres from Livingstone. By this time darkness would have descended on the Zambezi Valley and guests will be invited to dinner by the train manager in the dining cars. The train will then slowly push back to the Sinde 'run around' to afford the locomotive driver a good view of any obstacles in his path for the return journey in darkness, including of course elephants! The journey finishes back at the old Mulobezi Siding at approximately 21h30.  The companies involved in the resurrection process are Sun International Zambia, Bushtracks Africa, and the National Heritage Conservation Commission.

094-CR2685: Sunset in the Royal Livingstone Express luxury train. The Steam Locomotive, 156 is a 10th Class originally belonging to the Zambezi Sawmills Limited. It was used on the Mulobezi Line to pull logging carriages from the forests in Mulobezi to the railhead in Livingstone. David Shepherd, renowned wildlife artist, rescued the locomotive and partially renovated it, to its previous grandeur. He then donated it to National Heritage and Bushtracks has subsequently restored the locomotive to working order.  Bushtracks spent three years searching for carriages in order to operate this excursion. Rohan Vos of Rovos Rail South Africa, reputed to be 'the most luxurious train in the world', found five carriages which were purchased in December 2006. Rovos Rail also agreed to renovate the carriages to their former glory and work began on the 3rd January 2007. Experience the elegance of yesteryear from the comfort of your carriage whilst enjoying one of the most scenic railway journeys in Southern Africa. Experience the flora and fauna with panoramic views from the observation carriage.  This unique dining experience is offered three times a week, it includes the 6-course dinner, wine, beer and soft drinks. The luxurious train leaves the station at 17h45 and dinner is served at 19h00. Guests will be returned to the Royal Livingstone Hotel at 22h00.

095-CR2710: Black woman traveling in the Livingstone Express luxury train drinking wine. The Royal Livingstone Express offers the discerning guests the ultimate fine dining experience going back in time to the age of steam train travel. Luxury steam train dining as you travel on the historic Mulobezi Railway line, formerly one of the largest private rail networks in the world. The train itself consists of 5 carriages restored by Rohan Vos of Rovos Rail and pulled by either Locomotive 156 or Locomotive 204 and is fully air conditioned. Fulfil your romantic fantasy, escape on a late afternoon train journey amidst the untamed natural Zambia bushveld. Sun International is proud to announce the inauguration of the Royal Livingstone Express, a joint venture between Sun International and Bushtracks Africa. The Royal Livingstone Express is a unique dining experience combining the luxury of Sun International's Royal Livingstone hotel with the charm of rail travel. The train is an all inclusive luxury rail experience rooted in the nostalgia of a bygone era. Passengers

096-CR2770: One of the railway workers of the Livingstone Express luxury train. Fine dining is redefined when the venue is the dining car of a 1920’s steam train, in the middle of the Zambian bushveld. The Royal Livingstone Express is a joint venture between Bushtracks Africa and Sun International. This unique dining experience is fully inclusive and guests are transferred from all over Livingstone and the surrounding lodges to the old Mulobezi Line Offices in Livingstone town. Walking up to the train on a red carpet sets the mood for this must-do experience. Each guest is personally greeted and offered a welcome-drink as they board the immaculate vintage first-class Lounge carriage. The Royal Livingstone Express consists of five carriages, restored by Rohan Vos of Rovos Rail and these include two dining cars, a club/kitchen car, lounge car, and an observation car and is pulled by either a 10th class No. 156 or a 12th class No. 204 locomotive. Once all guests are aboard the journey commences through Dambwa suburb towards the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, running parallel to the Zambezi River. Drinks are served while you do game watching from the comfort of your seat in one of the lounges or from the observation car. Once the sun has spectacularly set, the train manager invites the guests to dinner. The dining cars are clad in gleaming wood panelling and soft lamplight enhances the elegance of the silver cutlery, crystal glassware and damask linen. Once seated, course after delicious course appear as if by magic. The service on the train is impeccable and the food simply divine. (Be sure to come hungry!) During the six-course dinner the train pushes back towards Livingstone and all too soon arrives back at the Mulobezi Siding at about 21h30 where happy guests disembark and are transferred back to their hotels.

097-CR2825: Livingstone Express luxury train at night. Collected from the Royal Livingstone Hotel, guests board the immaculate vintage first class Lounge carriage. Being either a 10th class No. 156 or a 12th class No. 204 locomotive, coal is shovelled and steam erupts, sending  you merrily pottering down the tracks. Departing three times a week, this luxury train leaves the station at 17h45. Once aboard, the trip will take you past Mosi-oa-Tunya Game Park's doorstep: a great opportunity to spot elephant, white rhino, buffalo as well as giraffe, zebra, hartebeest, bushbuck, impala, warthogs, baboons and monkeys. 19:00 sees you spoiled with a 6-course dinner, accompanied by your choice of fine wine, beer or soft drinks.  Boasting the most scenic  railway journey in Southern Africa, the comfort of your carriage provides an ambience of comfort and elegance from which you get to view the passing vistas. After an evening of wining, dining and travelling in utter style, guests are safely returned to the Royal Livingstone Hotel at 22h00.

098-CR2908: One of the railway workers of the Livingstone Express luxury train charcoal powered train locomotive.  The train will stop on the bridge and allow passengers to take in the magnificent spectacle and to capture that all important photo of the moment the African sun sets over one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. Along with world class views, the Royal Livingstone Express provides a fantastic five star dining experience as it travels through the picturesque Zambezi Valley and into the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Wildlife Park. The Pullman style coaches dating back to the 1930′s have been lovingly restored to their former glory creating a sense of nostalgia and adding to the authenticity of the journey.

099-CR2800: Black men say goodbye to Livingstone Express luxury train.  The ROYAL LIVINGSTONE EXPRESS is a steam train built in the 1920s with  PULLMAN-style carriages. Due to the popularity of this first-class experience, the train schedule has, for the next three months, been extended to include Wednesdays, giving you the opportunity to board the train two days a week. The journey will begin at 17h00 on Wednesday and Saturday regardless of how many people are on board. If you are in a group of 12 or more you can board the train on Thursdays and Fridays as well. This beautifully restored train, a joint venture between SUN INTERNATIONAL and BUSHTRACKS AFRICA, meanders through the Dambwa suburb of Livingstone towards the MOSI-OA-TUNYA NATIONAL PARK, running parallel to the Zambezi River. You will have the opportunity to see white rhino, buffalo, elephant and other wildlife from the train. The train crosses out of the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park over the Sinde River and stops some 17 kilometres from Livingstone. By this time darkness has descended on the Zambezi Valley and it’s time for dinner. The six-course gourmet dining experience is served in the two dining cars, which form part of the train’s five air-conditioned carriages – a club/kitchen car, lounge car and observation car. After the meal the train slowly edges back to the Sinde ‘run around’ to afford the locomotive driver a good view of any obstacles in his path for the return journey in darkness, including of course elephants! The journey finishes back at the old Mulobezi siding at approximately 21h30.

100-CR2892: One of the railway workers of the Livingstone Express luxury train charcoal feeding train locomotive.  The Royal Livingstone Express is a unique dining experience combining the luxury of Sun International's Royal Livingstone hotel with the charm of rail travel. The train is an all inclusive luxury rail experience rooted in the nostalgia of a bygone era. Passengers travel leisurely as the sunsets. This is a journey into a timeless world of grace, elegance and romance, where the natural splendor will stir your imagination and the luxurious comfort soothes your soul. This unique luxury rail restoration is an extension of the five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel. The train provides fine wining and dining as you travel through the picturesque Zambezi Valley in Pullman style coaches which have been lovingly restored to their former glory. The Royal Livingstone Express consists of 5 air-conditioned carriages, 2 dining cars, a club/kitchen car, lounge car, and an observation car and is pulled by either a 10th class No. 156 or a 12th class No. 204 locomotive. One of the dining cars, The Wembley, was built by the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company, and went on display in London at the British Empire Exhibition in 1924. It was shipped to the Union of South Africa and entered service on 19th May 1926 and hence acquired the name - The Wembley