Victoria Falls and Livingstone, Zambia, are where breathtaking natural beauty, African wildlife, adventure, culture and unforgettable travel experiences come together. From standing in the mist of the mighty Victoria Falls to watching elephants along the Zambezi River, exploring Livingstone’s cultural heritage or crossing into Botswana for a Chobe safari, there is something for every type of traveller.
If you are planning a holiday to Zambia and looking for the best things to do in Victoria Falls and Livingstone, this guide will help you discover the experiences that should be on your itinerary.
At Chris Travel and Tours, we help travellers experience Livingstone, Victoria Falls and the surrounding region through carefully planned tours, activities, safaris, airport transfers and tailor-made travel itineraries.
Why Visit Victoria Falls and Livingstone?
Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most spectacular natural attractions. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” the waterfall lies on the Zambezi River along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The waterfall is approximately 1,688 metres wide and drops about 108 metres into a series of dramatic gorges. Its enormous scale, thunderous roar and clouds of spray make it one of the world’s most impressive natural sights.
But Victoria Falls is only part of the experience.
Just a short distance away is Livingstone, a historic Zambian town that has developed into one of Southern Africa’s most exciting tourism destinations. Livingstone provides easy access to Victoria Falls while also offering wildlife, cultural, historical and adventure experiences of its own.
This combination makes Livingstone an excellent base for travellers who want to experience more than just the waterfall.
1. Take a Guided Tour of Victoria Falls
No trip to Livingstone is complete without experiencing the mighty Victoria Falls.
A Guided Victoria Falls Tour allows you to explore the waterfall from the Zambian side while learning about its history, geology, wildlife, local traditions and the Zambezi River.
As you walk along the rainforest paths and viewpoints, the experience changes from one viewpoint to another.
You may hear the roar of the waterfall before you see it.
Then, as you approach the viewpoints, the enormous curtain of falling water appears through the trees and mist.
Depending on the season and water levels, you may encounter intense spray, rainbows and spectacular views of the various cataracts.
Some of the notable viewpoints include:
- Main Falls
- Eastern Cataract
- Knife-edge Bridge
- Boiling Pot
- Livingstone Island
- The surrounding rainforest viewpoints
The official Zambia tourism information describes Victoria Falls as a World Heritage Site and one of the world’s great natural attractions.
Why take a guided Victoria Falls tour?
A guided tour is more than simply walking around the waterfall.
Your guide can explain:
- How Victoria Falls was formed
- The significance of the Zambezi River
- The history of David Livingstone
- Local names and traditions associated with the Falls
- The geology of the Batoka Gorge
- Seasonal changes in the waterfall
- Important viewpoints and photography locations
For first-time visitors, this can transform a beautiful sightseeing experience into a much deeper understanding of one of Africa’s most important natural landmarks.
Planning a Victoria Falls visit? Chris Travel and Tours can arrange your guided Victoria Falls experience from Livingstone and surrounding hotels and lodges.
2. Experience the Zambezi River on a Sunset Cruise
After spending the day exploring Victoria Falls, one of the most relaxing experiences in Livingstone is a Zambezi River sunset cruise.
The upper Zambezi provides a completely different perspective of the region.
Instead of hearing the thunder of Victoria Falls, you can relax on the river as the afternoon gradually turns into evening.
A typical sunset cruise offers opportunities to:
- Watch the African sunset
- Look for elephants along the riverbanks
- Spot hippos and crocodiles
- Observe birds
- Enjoy drinks and snacks
- Photograph the changing colours of the sky
- Experience the peaceful atmosphere of the Zambezi
The Livingstone Tourism Association also highlights sunset cruises and river experiences among the major activities available in the destination.
For couples, families, photographers and travellers looking for a slower experience, a Zambezi sunset cruise is an excellent addition to a Victoria Falls itinerary.
3. Discover Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Livingstone is that you can combine a Victoria Falls holiday with a wildlife experience.
Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park is located close to Livingstone and provides opportunities to see wildlife along the Zambezi River.
A game drive can introduce visitors to animals such as:
- African elephants
- White rhinoceroses
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Buffalo
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Antelope species
Chris Travel and Tours offers a Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park Game Drive and Rhino Walk, making it possible to combine wildlife viewing with a visit to Victoria Falls during your stay.
4. Go on a Rhino Walk in Livingstone
For wildlife enthusiasts, the rhino experience is one of the most memorable activities available around Livingstone.
A Guided rhino walk provides an opportunity to learn about white rhinoceros conservation while experiencing the African bush with trained guides and rangers.
Rather than simply observing wildlife from a vehicle, a walking experience provides a more intimate connection with the environment.
It also allows visitors to learn about:
- Rhino conservation
- Animal behaviour
- Tracking
- The importance of protected areas
- Local wildlife management
- The challenges facing endangered species
Chris Travel and Tours currently promotes the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Game Drive & Rhino Walk as one of its key Livingstone experiences.
5. Visit Mukuni Village and Experience Zambian Culture
Victoria Falls is not only about landscapes and wildlife.
A trip to Livingstone also provides an opportunity to experience Zambia’s people, traditions and culture.
A Mukuni Village cultural visit offers travellers an opportunity to learn about traditional village life and the cultural heritage of the local community.
Depending on the experience, visitors can learn about:
- Traditional customs
- Local community life
- Traditional leadership
- Arts and crafts
- Local markets
- Traditional dances
- Storytelling
- Zambian culture and heritage
For travellers who want to go beyond conventional sightseeing, a cultural tour can provide meaningful insight into the people and communities of the region.
Chris Travel and Tours offers Mukuni Village tours as part of its Livingstone activities.
6. Explore Livingstone’s History and Museums
Livingstone has a fascinating history that goes far beyond tourism.
The town was established in 1905 and was once the capital of Northern Rhodesia before the capital was moved to Lusaka in 1935. Today, remnants of its history can still be seen throughout the town.
One of the places worth visiting is the Livingstone Museum, which provides an opportunity to learn about Zambia’s history, archaeology, culture and heritage.
A Livingstone city tour can also introduce visitors to historic buildings, local landmarks, markets and other points of interest.
For travellers interested in history and culture, this is an excellent way to understand the destination beyond Victoria Falls.
7. Shop for Local Arts and Crafts
Your Livingstone experience would not be complete without exploring local arts and crafts.
Craft markets provide opportunities to find handmade souvenirs, artwork, carvings, jewellery and other locally produced items.
Shopping locally also gives visitors an opportunity to interact with local artisans and support community-based tourism.
If you are looking for meaningful souvenirs from Zambia, consider purchasing locally made products rather than mass-produced items.
Popular choices can include:
- Wooden carvings
- Handmade jewellery
- Traditional artwork
- Baskets
- Decorative items
- African fabrics
- Locally produced souvenirs
The Zambia tourism authorities also highlight Livingstone’s craft markets and cultural attractions as part of the town’s visitor experience.
8. See Victoria Falls from Above on a Helicopter Flight
For a completely different perspective of Victoria Falls, take to the skies.
A Victoria Falls helicopter flight, often referred to as the “Flight of Angels,” provides panoramic views of the waterfall, Zambezi River, surrounding landscape and Batoka Gorge.
From the air, the enormous scale of Victoria Falls becomes particularly clear.
You can see how the Zambezi River approaches the Falls before plunging into the gorge and continuing through the dramatic landscape downstream.
Chris Travel and Tours currently offers both short and longer helicopter experiences over Victoria Falls.
Why choose a helicopter flight?
Aerial flights are particularly attractive for:
- Photographers
- Couples
- Honeymooners
- Adventure travellers
- First-time visitors
- Special occasions
It is also an excellent option for travellers visiting during periods when heavy spray can make it difficult to see the full waterfall from ground level.
9. Experience the Adrenaline of Victoria Falls
Livingstone is also famous for adventure activities.
For adrenaline seekers, the region offers a range of experiences around Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River.
Depending on the season and operational conditions, activities can include:
- Bungee jumping
- White-water rafting
- Gorge activities
- Kayaking
- Jet boating
- River activities
- Helicopter flights
- Microlight flights
- Devil’s Pool experiences
- Adventure walks
Zambia Tourism describes Livingstone as an important adventure destination with activities ranging from rafting and kayaking to bungee jumping, helicopter flights and other adrenaline experiences.
Victoria Falls Bungee Jump
For thrill seekers, the Victoria Falls Bridge provides an unforgettable setting for bungee jumping.
Chris Travel and Tours currently lists Victoria Falls bungee jumping among its bookable activities.
Always confirm current operating conditions, age requirements and safety requirements before booking adventure activities.
10. Visit Livingstone Island
Livingstone Island is one of the most famous locations associated with Victoria Falls.
It is named after Scottish explorer David Livingstone, who first viewed the Falls from the island in 1855.
Access to the island is highly dependent on Zambezi River water levels and seasonal conditions. Zambia Tourism notes that access is generally possible during the lower-water period, while high water can make the island inaccessible.
The island provides a unique perspective of Victoria Falls and is also associated with the famous Devil’s Pool experience.
Because conditions can change significantly during the year, travellers should always confirm availability and safety conditions before planning a Livingstone Island experience.
11. Take a Day Trip to Chobe National Park, Botswana
One of the greatest advantages of staying in Livingstone is the ability to explore more than one country during the same holiday.
Chobe National Park in Botswana is accessible from the Livingstone area and is famous for its large elephant population and excellent wildlife viewing.
A Chobe Day Trip from Livingstone typically combines river-based wildlife viewing with a safari game drive.
Depending on the itinerary, travellers may experience:
- Chobe River boat cruises
- Game drives
- Elephant sightings
- Buffalo
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Antelope
- Other African wildlife
Chris Travel and Tours currently offers Chobe Day Trips from Livingstone and Victoria Falls, as well as longer Victoria Falls and Chobe safari packages.
For travellers with limited time, a Chobe day trip can be an excellent way to add a Botswana safari to a Victoria Falls holiday.
12. Combine Victoria Falls with a Zambia Safari
If you have more time available, consider extending your Livingstone holiday into a longer Zambia safari.
Zambia offers some of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations, including:
- Kafue National Park
- South Luangwa National Park
- Lower Zambezi
- Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park
Chris Travel and Tours offers tailor-made Zambia safari itineraries and multi-destination journeys.
For example, travellers can combine Victoria Falls with Kafue National Park or continue their journey to South Luangwa.
This allows you to experience two very different sides of Zambia: the spectacular landscape of Victoria Falls and the wildlife-rich wilderness of the country’s national parks.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
One of the most important questions travellers ask is:
“When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?”
The answer depends on what you want to experience.
Victoria Falls changes dramatically throughout the year because of seasonal variations in the Zambezi River.
March to May – High Water and Maximum Spray
Following the rainy season, water levels increase and Victoria Falls can become an enormous curtain of water.
This period can produce spectacular spray and dramatic conditions.
The downside is that extremely heavy spray can sometimes make it difficult to see the entire waterfall from ground-level viewpoints.
The aerial view can be particularly spectacular during high-water periods.
June to August – Powerful Falls and Improving Visibility
As water levels begin to fall, the visibility of the Falls generally improves.
This can be an excellent period for visitors who want to experience substantial water flow while also getting better views.
September to November – Lower Water and Excellent Visibility
During the dry season, water levels continue to decrease.
Lower water can provide clearer views of the geological formations and individual sections of the Falls.
This period can also offer excellent conditions for certain experiences that depend on lower river levels.
December to February – Seasonal Transition
The Zambezi begins responding to the rainy season, and water levels gradually increase.
The surrounding landscape can become greener, creating a very different photographic environment.
The important point
There is no single “best” month for everyone.
The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on whether your priority is:
- Maximum water flow
- Clear views
- Photography
- Adventure activities
- Wildlife
- River experiences
- Livingstone Island
- A combination of several activities
How Many Days Do You Need in Livingstone?
We recommend spending at least 3 to 4 days in Livingstone if you want to experience the major attractions without rushing.
A longer stay allows you to combine Victoria Falls with wildlife, culture and adventure.
Suggested 3-Day Livingstone Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive and Experience the Zambezi
- Airport transfer
- Hotel check-in
- Relax
- Zambezi sunset cruise
Day 2 – Victoria Falls and Wildlife
- Guided Victoria Falls tour
- Lunch
- Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park
- Game drive and rhino experience
Day 3 – Culture and Adventure
Choose from:
- Mukuni Village
- Livingstone city tour
- Museum
- Craft markets
- Helicopter flight
- Bungee jumping
- Other adventure activities
Suggested 4-Day Livingstone Adventure Itinerary
If you have four days, you can slow down and enjoy more experiences.
Day 1: Arrival and Sunset Cruise
Arrive at Livingstone Airport and transfer to your accommodation.
In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.
Day 2: Victoria Falls
Spend the morning exploring Victoria Falls with an experienced guide.
Take your time at the viewpoints, enjoy the rainforest and experience the power of Mosi-oa-Tunya.
Day 3: Wildlife and Culture
Start with a Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park game drive and rhino walk.
Later, explore Livingstone’s culture through a village visit, city tour or craft market.
Day 4: Adventure or Chobe
Depending on your interests, choose a helicopter flight, adventure activity or Chobe Day Trip.
This type of itinerary allows travellers to experience several sides of Livingstone rather than spending the entire holiday at Victoria Falls.
Chris Travel and Tours already offers a Best of Livingstone Adventure Tour combining experiences such as a Zambezi sunset cruise, Victoria Falls tour, Mosi-Oa-Tunya wildlife experience and cultural activities.
Victoria Falls and Livingstone for Couples
Livingstone is an excellent destination for couples.
Romantic experiences include:
- Zambezi sunset cruises
- Scenic helicopter flights
- Luxury lodges
- Private tours
- Victoria Falls sightseeing
- Wildlife experiences
- Cultural excursions
- Photography experiences
A sunset cruise is particularly popular for couples because it combines the scenery of the Zambezi with a relaxed atmosphere.
For honeymooners, Chris Travel and Tours can also design tailor-made itineraries that combine Victoria Falls with Zambia’s safari destinations.
Victoria Falls and Livingstone for Families
Livingstone can also be an excellent family destination.
Families can choose from experiences such as:
- Victoria Falls sightseeing
- Wildlife viewing
- Cultural visits
- Museum visits
- Boat cruises
- Selected safari activities
- Scenic experiences
However, some adventure activities have specific age, height or safety requirements.
Families should therefore discuss their children’s ages with their tour operator before booking.
Victoria Falls for Wildlife Lovers
Although Victoria Falls is primarily famous for the waterfall, the surrounding region is also rich in wildlife.
The Zambezi River provides habitat for numerous species, while nearby protected areas provide opportunities for safari experiences.
A Livingstone holiday can therefore combine:
Waterfall + River + Wildlife + Culture + Adventure
This combination is one of the major reasons travellers choose Livingstone as a base for exploring Southern Africa.
Why Book Your Victoria Falls Tours with Chris Travel and Tours?
Planning a holiday in Southern Africa can involve several moving parts.
You may need to organise:
- Airport transfers
- Hotel transfers
- Victoria Falls tours
- Safari activities
- Border crossings
- Botswana excursions
- Vehicle hire
- Accommodation
- Cross-border transfers
- Multi-day safari itineraries
Chris Travel and Tours helps simplify this process.
The company specialises in tailor-made African safari holidays and provides tour planning, activities, transfers and safari experiences across Zambia and neighbouring destinations.
Our services include:
Victoria Falls Tours
Explore the Zambian side of Victoria Falls with an experienced guide.
Livingstone Tours
Discover Livingstone’s history, culture and attractions.
Safari Experiences
Explore Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and other wildlife destinations.
Chobe Day Trips
Cross into Botswana for a full-day safari experience.
Zambezi River Cruises
Enjoy spectacular sunsets and wildlife along the river.
Airport Transfers
We provide airport and road transfer services from Livingstone, Lusaka, Victoria Falls and other destinations.
Vehicle Hire
We provide vehicle and bus hire options suitable for individuals, families, corporate groups and larger groups.
Tailor-Made Safaris
If you have a specific travel plan, we can create a customised itinerary around your interests, travel dates and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Victoria Falls and Livingstone
Is Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe?
Victoria Falls lies on the Zambezi River along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The Zambian town of Livingstone provides access to the Zambian side of the Falls, while Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe provides access from the Zimbabwean side.
What is Victoria Falls called in Zambia?
Victoria Falls is locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.”
Is Livingstone worth visiting?
Yes. Livingstone is much more than a gateway to Victoria Falls. Visitors can enjoy wildlife, cultural experiences, river cruises, museums, adventure activities, city tours and access to Botswana’s Chobe National Park.
How far is Victoria Falls from Livingstone?
Victoria Falls is located close to Livingstone, making the town a convenient base for visiting the Zambian side of the Falls. Zambia Tourism notes that the Falls can be reached from Livingstone by travelling along Mosi-oa-Tunya Road.
Can I visit Chobe National Park from Livingstone?
Yes. Chobe National Park in Botswana can be visited as a day trip from the Livingstone area, making it possible to combine Victoria Falls and a Botswana safari in one holiday. Chris Travel and Tours offers Chobe Day Trips and longer Victoria Falls and Chobe safari packages.
Can I see wildlife in Livingstone?
Yes. Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park near Livingstone provides opportunities to see wildlife including elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras and other species.
How long should I stay in Livingstone?
For a well-rounded experience, we recommend around 3–4 days. Travellers with more time can extend their trip to Chobe National Park or continue to one of Zambia’s major safari destinations.
Can Chris Travel and Tours create a private itinerary?
Yes. Chris Travel and Tours specialises in tailor-made African safari holidays and can help design an itinerary around your preferred activities, accommodation, travel dates and budget.
Plan Your Victoria Falls and Livingstone Adventure
Victoria Falls is one of those destinations that photographs simply cannot fully explain.
You need to hear the roar of the Zambezi.
You need to feel the spray on your face.
You need to watch the mist rise above the rainforest.
You need to see the river at sunset.
And you need to experience the surrounding wildlife and culture to understand why Livingstone remains one of Africa’s most exciting tourism destinations.
Whether your dream trip involves standing beside the mighty Victoria Falls, cruising along the Zambezi River, tracking rhinos, meeting local communities, exploring Livingstone’s history, flying over the Falls or crossing into Botswana for a Chobe safari, Chris Travel and Tours can help you put it all together.
From a short Victoria Falls visit to a complete Southern African safari adventure, our team can create an itinerary designed around your travel interests and schedule.
Ready to Discover Victoria Falls and Livingstone?
Contact Chris Travel and Tours today to plan your Zambia holiday, Victoria Falls tour, Livingstone adventure or tailor-made safari.
Phone/WhatsApp: +260 977 403 548
Email: res@christourszambian.com
Website: www.christourszambian.com
Explore Livingstone. Experience Victoria Falls. Discover Zambia with Chris Travel and Tours.
