Named after the Victorian explorer Dr David Livingstone, Livingstone’s culture and history is intriguing. Once a major European settlement, thanks to its close proximity to the Zambezi River, Livingstone was during the early 1900’s the capital of Northern Rhodesia.
As the capital, it enjoyed excellent facilities far superior to anything elsewhere in the country, as can be seen from the surviving Edwardian buildings that line the city’s main road. When the capital was moved to Lusaka in 1935 this bustling city become a much quieter and smaller town, but still managed to retain a special charm becoming a base for travelers from all over the world wanting to explore the wonder of Africa.
Why go?
Livingstone's thunderous waterfalls are a humbling sight. The Zambezi River plunges over a 108-metre high gorge, creates the largest sheet of falling water in the world. Called Mosi-oa-Tunya, or The Smoke That Thunders by the Tonga people, it’s also been known as Victoria Falls since European explorer David Livingstone first spotted it in 1855.
At this gigantic waterfall, the raw force of nature is laid bare as the thundering Zambezi gushes over a cliff-face in an exquisite blast of haze. Twice the size of the Niagara Falls, it’s a sight that’s inspired awe since time immemorial.
But here’s the thing – waterfall watching isn’t even half the story in Victoria Falls. The sheer range of activities on offer is so overwhelming that it’s no wonder it’s known as Africa’s adventure capital. The long list of Victoria Falls experiences starts with a helicopter flight over the Zambezi. From the sky, you can really appreciate the enormity of the gaping chasms gouged into the basalt plain by millennia of rushing water. Then come the adrenaline-fests – white-water rafting, zip-lining and some of the most amazing bungee spots you’ll find anywhere on earth.
Animal lovers can sign up to a ‘Walk with Lions’ tour to come face-to-face with the king of the beasts, or hunker down in the Siduli Hide to watch elephants and baboons congregate at the waterhole and for those
looking to take in the sheer beauty of the area the Royal Livingstone Express, a restored train that offers a scenic dinner tour past the Falls.
When to go?
The best time to see the waterfall is from February to May, when the rainy season’s floodwaters magnify the awesome spectacle of the falls. If you’re keen to see Zimbabwe’s amazing wildlife, then the months between May and October are best, as the drier weather brings animals together near waterholes. The end of October is also the only time you can swim in the famous Devil’s Pool – but low waters mean the Falls won’t be at their most dramatic. Try the tail-end of the rainy season at the beginning of April or May, for cooler temperatures and epic views.
Where to stay?
Set in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, this luxurious resort is home to zebras, giraffes and impalas. It sits right on the Zambezi River, giving you free, unlimited access to the Victoria Falls via a private entrance. Whichever room you choose, you’ll get sumptuous beds and a private terrace looking out to the river or the gardens.
The locations of this resort is unbeatable – just a 10-minute walk from Victoria Falls. Monkeys and zebras roam the grounds, where you’ll find a sprawling pool area with a cocktail bar. The rooms are decorated in reds and oranges, featuring Zambian designs and private patios.
Located on the banks of the Zambezi River, this Safari Lodge and Spa offers luxurious rooms only 10 minutes’ drive from Victoria Falls. It has a spa and wellness centre and a private river-cruise boat.
Each of the rooms is luxuriously decorated with four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets. All rooms have a private bathroom and the suites contain a hot tub and lounge area. Guests can enjoy a sundowner on their private balcony. The expansive gardens contain an outdoor pool surrounded by the Gwembe Terrace serving fine cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Discover more at www.millionaireescapes.com
Comments