Things To Do
Livingstone and Victoria Falls offer a wealth of exciting activities for tourists. Here are some popular options:
Visit Victoria Falls: Witness the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The view from the Zambian side is particularly breathtaking.
Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island Tour: Take a small-group tour to Livingstone Island and swim in Devil’s Pool (available from mid-August to mid-January).
Adventure Sports: For adrenaline junkies, there’s white-water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and helicopter rides.
Wildlife Tours: Explore the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park along the upper Zambezi River. Enjoy game drives and spot wildlife.
Cultural Tours: Immerse yourself in Zambian culture with half-day tours and learn about local traditions.
Sunset Cruises: Experience the Zambezi River on a sunset cruise.
When To Visit
The best time to visit Victoria Falls is between March and May, when water levels in the Zambezi River are at their highest, and the Falls are at their most spectacular. However, this is also the busiest time of year. If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season from November to February. Additionally, for other activities around the falls, such as safaris and swimming in Devil’s Pool, aim for July to September when water levels are safer and wildlife viewing is optimal.
Events
Here are some exciting events and festivals around Victoria Falls:
Vic Falls Carnival: Previously known as Falls Fest, this three-day affair takes place right before New Year’s. It’s an entertainment-packed celebration with live music from top bands, even from across borders.
Victoria Falls Enduro: On April 27 and 28, 2024, this annual fundraising event is hosted by the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust (VFWT). Motorcycle and quad bike riders zip through the wilderness over 80 km, with proceeds benefiting wildlife conservation efforts.
Victoria Falls Marathon: Organized in conjunction with the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe, this AIMS-registered event attracts local and international runners. Choose from a full marathon, half marathon, or a fun run on July 7, 2024
Zambezi Cycle Challenge: From July 12 to 14, 2024, this exciting cycling event takes riders through lesser-known parts of the region, including the Zambezi gorges and nature reserves.
Pumping Legs for Water (Hwange National Park): Usually a two-day mountain biking event, it raises funds to maintain and develop water sources inside Hwange National Park. This year, there’s also a virtual ride for global participants from July 25 to 28, 2024.
Livingstone, Zambia hosts several annual events that celebrate its culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some notable ones:
Livingstone Tourism Expo: Held annually, this event provides a platform for the tourism industry in Livingstone and Zambia to showcase their products and services.
Mosi-oa-Tunya Cultural and Arts Festival: Also held annually, this festival showcases local culture, music, dance, and art in Livingstone.
Livingstone’s Birthday Celebration: On March 19th, there’s a champagne reception and fireworks to commemorate the birthday of David Livingstone, the explorer who first spotted Victoria Falls.
June Cultural Festival and Carnival: Representing the African countries Livingstone explored, this festival takes place in June.
September Regatta on the Zambezi River: A thrilling event for water sports enthusiasts.
November Memorial on Livingstone Island: Held on November 16th, this memorial pays tribute to the explorer’s discovery of Victoria Falls
Oktoberfest – Livingstone Beer Festival