INFORMATION VICTORIA FALLS AND LIVINGSTONE Sergi Reboredo access Victoria Falls and Livingstone
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 which the falls thunder, transforms the Zambezi from a placid river into a ferocious torrent cutting through a series of dramatic gorges. 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 this popular tourist destination offers both adventure seekers and sightseers 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 a 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") Local tourists visit the Victoria Falls. These are among the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The Zambezi River, which 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 processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls i.e. the spray, mist and rainbows. This transboundary property extends over 6860 ha and comprises 3779 ha of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia), 2340 ha of Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe), 741 ha 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 and Kandahar Islands, with the Victoria Falls being one of the major attractions.
     
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 countries 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 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. 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 trouble next door means 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 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. Don't get so caught up with activities that you miss one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Local tourists visit the Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls constitutes one of the most spectacular natural 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 about 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 metres of water plummet over the edge every minute. Remarkably preserved in its natural 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, thus preserving the area from excessive commercialisation.
     
Views of the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is one of two World Heritage Sites on the Zambezi River. Our local Victoria Falls office is ideal 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 100 metre headlong plunge 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 regular safaris. The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls and associated eight steep sided gorges have been formed through the changing waterfall 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. Around Victoria Falls you can walk. Guided Tour of the Victoria Falls. To discover how the Falls were formed and what 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 centre. Tours may be conducted from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River and last for 1½ hours in Zambia and 2 hours in Zimbabwe Mists of Time Tour. This excursion 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 visitor a unique insight into Africa’s past, present and future. You will be collected from the Royal Livingstone Hotel reception at 08h30 by Russell Gammon, your Specialist Guide for the morning. Views of Victoria Falls. Behind, the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe. 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.
     
Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the " African Queen". Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River at Victoria falls watch hippo pods & elephants sometimes 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 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 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 flora and fauna as well as the prolific bird life and wildlife. 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. Sunset in the Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (Tokaleya Tonga: the Smoke that Thunders; the 'i' is silent) is a waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are believed to be the largest in the world in terms of the volume of water that passes through. 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, he encountered this most 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.
     
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' jetty on the Zambezi River 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. 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 colours 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 myths and legends as our guide shares tales of the local tribes. 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 don’t have to be an alcohol drinker to enjoy the experience of being on Southern Africa’s largest river. You are certain to see hippo and crocs and possibly elephant during the excursions, which last about 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.
     
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 to the David Livingstone safari Lodge and Spa. The cruise takes place along the river boundary of the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, 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 (August to April) and 15h30 in winter (May to July). Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the " African Queen". Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River. The sunset cruises vary in boat size – from essentially private boats that 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 boats have their own charm. The experience varies tremendously according to the number of people and who you are sharing the sundowner cruise with, and every boat has its own unique character. The cruise begins with a safety briefing shortly after launching and then, 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, elephants swimming or snorkelling across the river. The boats usually turn back down river and continue for several kilometres towards Palm Island – often meandering in and out of the islands and channels. 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 breakfast cruise or sunrise cruise, it could be a lunch cruise or dinner, or even just a chilled booze cruise. There is something for everyone. Guests are picked up from their hotel in Victoria Falls and transferred 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.
     
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 about 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. 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 resident game are common. There's always an abundance of hippos and crocodiles. Birdlife is superb and the Fisheagles will usually 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 both Livingstone and Vic Falls town are included. (*Park Fees excluded - applicable in Zimbabwe) 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, prolific birdlife and abundant game, 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. There are also 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 about 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 elephants are seen crossing the river to get to the lush vegetation on the island of the Zambezi River.
     
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 individual, 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, or the sun catching 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 interior to enjoy the permanent water. Cruise along the Victoria Falls aboard the " African Queen". Other boats sailing in the Zambezi River. Sunset Cruise - This excursion 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 you could consume. It certainly seemed that for the tour we were 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. 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 lasted for about 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 don't necessarily seat you based on weight as Julie and I actually got the rear seats during our visit.
     
Sunset in the Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia 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 planes, which in turn could mean direct flights from overseas destinations such as Europe and the Americas. There is decent transfer services usually arranged by the lodges and your journey should be safe and sound. 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 that the river has been falling into these gorges for at least 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 he had come to Ngonye Falls. Livingstone had found the cataract very impressive. The falls were only about 60 feet high but extended over the whole length of the wide river and the amount of water that rushed over them was staggering. However, on this day, November 17th, 1855, he been told he would be seeing a spectacular cataract that would dwarf the one at Ngonye. Livingstone, like most Europeans, had some doubts about this. 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 during the long 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 knife edge cliff into a narrow chasm below. The height of this chasm varies from 70 m (233ft) to 108m (360ft).
     
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. It is also 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, which 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. 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 heard making a deep 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 about during the day and when you do it's usually 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 come 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. From Victoria Falls is possible to visit the nearby Botswana. Specifically Chobe National Park. Elephants Crossing: River Safari on the Chobe. 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. Don’t worry, they won’t do us any harm,” said said Bernard, our guide from the luxury river safari cruise 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, he turned around and shooed the other one away. We burst into giggles, almost as if we were watching a pair of brothers fighting. Most of all, these elephants were completely oblivious to us and all the boats around them.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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'. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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”.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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.” 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.
     
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! 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). 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
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. 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. 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.
     
  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.  
  Zambia photographs Victoria Falls Livingstone express