About David Livingstone Safari Lodge
Opened in 2008, the imposing four-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa is set on the Zambian bank a ...
... sweeping bend of the Zambezi River opposite Siloka Island, about 7km upstream of the Victoria Falls and 5km from the town of Livingstone.
The David Livingstone is a smaller-than-average hotel; the setting is lovely and the staff friendly and accommodating. We were surprised, therefore, by its ‘corporate’ atmosphere and apparent focus on groups and business travellers – perhaps attracted by its busy conference facilities. In terms of value for money, we usually recommend the slightly cheaper, three-star Zambezi Sun, or the more costly five-star Royal Livingstone, both of which are within walking distance of the Falls.
Our view
The David Livingstone is a smaller-than-average hotel; the setting is lovely and the staff friendly and accommodating. We were surprised, therefore, by its ‘corporate’ atmosphere and apparent focus on groups and business travellers – perhaps attracted by its busy conference facilities. In terms of value for money, we usually recommend the slightly cheaper, three-star Zambezi Sun, or the more costly five-star Royal Livingstone, both of which are within walking distance of the Falls.
Zambia expert
Accommodation
77 rooms
Children
Best for 10+
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Elephant encounter
Fishing
Helicopter
Kayaking
Microlight
White-water rafting
Traveller reviews of David Livingstone Safari Lodge
7 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryDavid Livingstone Safari Lodge: Our full report
Opened in 2008, the imposing four-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa is set on the Zambian bank a ...
... sweeping bend of the Zambezi River opposite Siloka Island, about 7km upstream of the Victoria Falls and 5km from the town of Livingstone.
Accommodation at the David Livingstone consists of 72 standard rooms and five executive suites, all air conditioned, and all facing the Zambezi River. Each has a private balcony, although in the standard rooms, this is very narrow so the concertina doors have to be opened fully in order to make it a useable space. However, the view of the river from our room on the second floor was fabulous and worth the effort!
- The standard rooms are a reasonable size and quite well-appointed, with a large twin or double bed under a mosquito net in the centre. A writing desk doubles as a vanity unit with a large mirror above it, and also features a tea and coffee station. There is a minibar fridge, but you’ll have to ask for it to be filled with your preference of drinks.
Up a couple of steps, the en-suite bathroom has a shower cubicle, a handbasin and a separate toilet, plus the usual assortment of lotions and potions. There is also a large, free-standing bathtub, although we weren’t tempted to try it as the inside looked a little past its ‘use by’ date. - The executive suites at the David Livingstone Safari Lodge are substantially larger with a separategood-size lounge and an enormous bathroom, plus an indoor jacuzzi. The suites are particularly well-appointed, but really quite dark as, unlike most of the standard rooms, they don’t get much natural light.
Also overlooking the river is a good-size infinity swimming pool, although this is often flooded when the river rises when the level of the river does. In addition there’s a well-utilised conference centre (state of the art, we’re told), a small gym and a spa with five treatment rooms offering a good selection of treatments such as massages, facials, manicures and pedicures.
David Livingstone Safari Lodge has its own triple-decked 144-seater river cruiser – the Lady Livingstone, which offers sunset cruises along the Zambezi. This section of the river is busier than upstream, where the more remote, smaller lodges are based, but on our most recent visit in June 2013 we were surprised by just how quiet the cruisers engines were and found that the elevated decks of the boat gave us a fantastic 360-degree view of the river and the banks on both sides.
Livingstone itself offers a variety of activities, including game drives, helicopter flights over Victoria Falls, Zambezi River cruises, white-water rafting, and elephant encounters. A tour of the Falls is not to be missed, and the David Livingstone Museum in the town centre is fascinating. All activities will cost extra during your stay at the David Livingstone Safari Lodge, but they can be arranged and paid for at the hotel’s activity centre, which is open between 8.00am and 7.00pm daily.
Geographics
- Location
- Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- A stay of two–three nights is typical, but the ideal length of stay really depends on the activities you’d like to try while in Livingstone.
- Directions
- There are daily flights into Livingstone Airport from Lusaka and Johannesburg. Then it's around 20 minutes by road to the David Livingstone. Alternatively, transfer overland from Kasane in Botswana, which takes around 1½–2 hours
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- Breakfast at the David Livingstone Lodge is available between 6.30am and 10.00am, and dinner 6.30–10.00pm.
On our most recent stay in June 2013, we found the breakfast selection excellent. As well as the usual cooked dishes, cereals, fruit and yoghurt, there were freshly made pancakes cooked to order: light, fluffy and delicious!
By contrast, the dinner buffet was a little disappointing. Despite a reasonable selection, the beef we tried was tough and dry. Having said that, the chef prepared pan-fried fish to order, which was delicious with a salad.
Snacks or a light lunch are served from an à la carte menu between 12.30pm and 5.00pm, either at the bar or on the sundeck.
- Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No room service is available.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome.
- Equipment
- A limited number of cots are available, but no other equipment is provided.
- Generally recommended for children
- Although the David Livingstone accepts children of all ages, it caters particularly well for conferences and groups, and thus feels rather corporate. We think the Zambezi Sun is geared much more to families with younger children and caters better for them.
- Notes
- The lodge’s pool is unfenced and hippos usually make their way out of the water at night to graze on the hotels manicured lawns. Children need to be supervised by their parents at all times.
Communications
- Communications
- There are telephones in all the rooms at the David Livingstone Safari Lodge and there is cellphone reception and WiFi throughout the hotel. The first 100MB of data is free; thereafter there is a charge.
- TV & radio
- There is a TV in every room, with some satellite channels.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The closest doctor is in Livingstone, approximately a 15 minute drive away.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- This ‘safari lodge’ hotel grounds are fenced and there is a security gate. Security guards patrol the grounds at night.
- Fire safety
- There are fire hoses and fire extinguishers strategically placed throughout the hotel buildings.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Elephant encounter
Fishing
Helicopter
Kayaking
Microlight
White-water rafting
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service - Extra Charge
- Money
- There is an electronic safe in each room. The hotel does not offer exchange facilities.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash payments may be made in US dollars, South African rand, pounds sterling, euros and Zambian kwacha. Visa and MasterCard credit cards are accepted, but Amex and Diners Club are not. Any card payments will be charged in kwacha at the prevailing exchange rate.
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David Livingstone Safari Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of David Livingstone Lodge.
Excursions from David Livingstone Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at David Livingstone Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
African Queen Sunset Cruise
Two hours
A leisurely two and a half hour cruise on the tranquil Zambezi River, along the banks of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, offers opportunities to see wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, giraffe, antelope and elephants. Enjoy the evening light and sunset whilst enjoying drinks and canapes on the luxurious African Queen, a triple deck 70-foot catamaran.
More about African Queen Sunset Cruise
Chobe Day Trip
Full day - typically around 11 hours
For a top safari experience while visiting the Victoria Falls, don’t miss a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Easily reachable from Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Chobe boasts some of the best wildlife densities in southern Africa, with exceptional numbers of elephant drawn by the permanent waters of the Chobe River.
More about Chobe Day Trip
Fishing on the Zambezi River
Three hours or Seven hours
Many people head to Livingstone not just to see the Victoria Falls, but also to relax after an international flight or a busy safari, and a perfect way to do this is with a fishing trip on the calmer sections of the Zambezi River above the falls, drifting with the current, casting your line, and keeping an eye out for wildlife on the banks.
More about Fishing
Guided tour of Victoria Falls
Two hours - AM & PM departures
One of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls has to be seen to be believed. Why not take an expertly guided trip to learn about the history, geology, flora and fauna of one of Africa's most spectacular sites?
More about Tour of the Falls
Helicopter Flight - Zambia
12 or 25 minute flights
Witnessing the power of the Victoria Falls from the ground is a stunning sight, but to see the world’s largest waterfall from the air is a very different experience! A helicopter flight over the Falls is truly incredible, and a worthy addition to your time in Livingstone.
More about Helicopter Flight
Historical Bridge Tour
Two hours - AM & PM departures
A feat of engineering the Victoria Falls Bridge was built in 1905 as part of Cecil Rhodes' vision to link the Cape to Cairo. With an expert guide and the appropriate safety equipment you'll not only discover the wonders of this Victorian marvel but also gain a unique perspective of the Victoria Falls themselves.
More about Bridge Tour
Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool
Three hours
Victoria Falls is one of the world's natural wonders, and a huge attraction for many visitors to southern Africa. We're often asked if the waterfall is best viewed from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, but we think the best way to experience the full majesty of the falls is from the middle with a visit to Livingstone Island.
More about Livingstone Island
Rhino Walk
Around four hours - mornings only
Spend an unforgettable morning on a walking safari tracking Mosi-oa-Tunya’s small population of white rhino, with a strong chance of being able to approach these endangered creatures on foot.
More about Rhino Walk
Royal Livingstone Express
Four hours approx.
The Royal Livingstone Express is a lovingly restored steam train. Guests steam along the original Rhodesian railway line onto the stunning Victoria Falls Bridge. From here guests can marvel at the falls and the Batoka Gorge before enjoying 5-courses of fine dining.
More about Royal Livingstone Express
The Elephant Café
Approximately four hours
Visiting The Elephant Café is a great combination of a magical elephant encounter and fine dining. Spend time getting to know the elephants, some of them rescued from the wild many years ago, and others born into the herd. Then sit down and enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the Zambezi.
More about The Elephant CaféOther lodges in Livingstone & Victoria Falls
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Avani Victoria Falls
Just a few minutes' walk from the Victoria Falls, with access for guests included, the Avani features good facilities in peaceful grounds at a modest price.
Royal Livingstone Hotel
Conveniently located just a short walk from the Zambia. side of the Victoria Falls, the colonial-style Royal Livingstone has beautiful grounds and small but quite luxurious rooms.
Tongabezi
Secluded on the banks of the Zambezi, less than 20km from the Victoria Falls, Tongabezi is one of the most exclusive lodges in Zambia.
Waterberry Lodge
Offering great value for money and within easy reach of the Victoria Falls, Waterberry is a small, family-friendly lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River.
Islands of Siankaba
In a lovely location on the Zambezi upriver of the Victoria Falls, Islands of Siankaba provides a tranquil setting to relax at the start or end of a safari to Botswana or Zambia.
Toka Leya Camp
The new Toka Leya Camp stands beside the Zambezi inside Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park – so wildlife often passes through. It's a comfortable tented camp which has great service and includes a range of activities.
The River Club
The River Club, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, overlooks the Zambezi River.
Sindabezi
Sindabezi, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, is an island in the middle of the Zambezi River
Thorntree River Lodge
Rebuilt in 2017, Thorntree River Lodge is one of the best riverside lodges in Livingstone, with a strong sense of the environment and straightforward access to the Falls.
Tangala House
Tangala House, the family home near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls
Sussi & Chuma
Sussi & Chuma combines a luxurious, laid-back camp with a good location on the Zambezi River, with quick access to the Victoria Falls.
When to go to Livingstone & Victoria Falls
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit David Livingstone Lodge in Livingstone & Victoria Falls
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in January
At the peak of Livingstone's green season, expect heavy rainfall for a few hours most days with sunny spells in between. Temperatures remain high, reaching over 30°C/86°F with high humidity.
The landscape around Victoria Falls is lush and green, offering spectacular views of the falls at their fullest. However, the abundance of water disperses wildlife in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, making game viewing challenging.
The high water levels in the Zambezi River limit some activities like whitewater rafting and visits to Devil's Pool. On the bright side, this is an excellent time for birdwatching in the park, with many migratory species present.
The Livingstone Museum provides a great indoor activity option during rainy periods.
- Hot and humid with frequent rainfall
- Victoria Falls at high water level, misty views
- Lush green landscape, great for photography
- Wildlife dispersed, game viewing challenging
- Low tourist numbers, cheaper accommodation
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in February
February remains in the heart of the green season in Livingstone. Dramatic thunderstorms deliver a few hours of rain most days, interspersed with clear sunny skies.
Victoria Falls is at its most powerful, creating an impressive spectacle of mist and rainbows. The high water levels in the Zambezi River allow for thrilling boat trips, offering unique perspectives of the falls and surrounding landscapes.
While game viewing in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is limited due to thick vegetation, you might spot animals with newborns. The Livingstone Museum and local markets provide cultural experiences during rainy periods. This is also an excellent time to enjoy spa treatments and relaxation at riverside retreats, taking in the lush, green scenery.
- Peak of green season, hot and humid days
- Victoria Falls impressive but views obscured
- Birdwatching excellent with migratory species
- Most adventure activities unavailable
- Quiet tourist season, best hotel deals
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in March
March is the last month of Livingstone's green season, with heavy downpours still occurring most days. Water levels at Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River are at their highest, creating a magnificent, thunderous display. While this limits some activities like whitewater rafting and visits to Devil's Pool, it's an excellent time for scenic flights over the falls.
In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, wildlife viewing remains challenging due to thick vegetation, but patient observers might be rewarded with sightings of predators taking advantage of vulnerable young animals. The Livingstone Museum offers insights into local history and culture on rainy days.
As the season transitions, some adventure activities begin to resume, and the lush landscape provides stunning backdrops for photography.
- Rains begin to subside, still hot and humid
- Victoria Falls at its most powerful
- Landscape lush and green, photogenic
- Wildlife with young, but viewing difficult
- Fewer tourists, great for budget travellers
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in April
As Livingstone transitions from intense downpours to lighter, sporadic showers, April marks a shift in tourist activities. Victoria Falls remains impressive, though water levels start to decrease slightly. This is the first month when it's possible to visit Livingstone Island, offering unique views of the falls.
In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, as the landscape begins to dry, wildlife viewing gradually improves. Adventure activities like whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River start to become available again.
The Livingstone Museum and local craft markets provide cultural experiences, while the town's restaurants and bars offer a taste of local cuisine and nightlife. This is also an excellent time for relaxing spa treatments and golf, with pleasant temperatures and decreasing humidity.
- Transition month, rains becoming less frequent
- Victoria Falls spectacular but misty
- Adventure activities slowly resuming
- Wildlife viewing improving as bush thins
- Moderate tourist numbers, good value stays
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in May
May typically marks the start of Livingstone's dry season. While there's a chance of an odd shower, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures start to drop, with highs around 26°C/79°F.
Victoria Falls remains impressive, but water levels decrease, improving visibility. This is an excellent time for activities like whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River and visiting Devil's Pool.
In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, game viewing improves as vegetation thins out. Walking safaris become more feasible, offering close encounters with wildlife. Cultural experiences at Livingstone and Mukuni villages are enjoyable in the mild weather. Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging at Victoria Falls are in full swing.
- Start of dry season, clearer and cooler
- Victoria Falls views improving
- White water rafting season begins
- Game viewing getting better in national park
- Tourist numbers increasing, book in advance
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in June
Livingstone sees virtually no rainfall in June, with a strong chance of sunny days throughout. The humidity drops dramatically, and temperatures fall to around 10°C/50°F at night but still warm to 25°C/77°F during the day.
Victoria Falls offers clearer views as mist decreases, making it ideal for photography. This is a prime time for activities like whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, and visiting Devil's Pool. In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the thinning vegetation significantly improves game viewing and walking safaris.
Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are particularly beautiful this time of year. Early morning and late evening activities may require warm clothing.
- Cool dry days, chilly nights
- Victoria Falls views excellent
- Prime time for white water rafting
- Wildlife viewing good in Mosi-oa-Tunya park
- High season begins, busier and pricier
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in July
As the dry season continues in Livingstone, vegetation dies back and water becomes scarcer. This results in excellent game viewing in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, with wildlife clustering around remaining water sources.
July is the first month of winter, and while daytime temperatures are in the 20s Celsius / 70s Fahrenheit, nights can be cold. Victoria Falls offers clear views with reduced mist, ideal for photography and activities like the 'Flight of Angels' helicopter rides. This is peak season for whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, and gorge swinging.
Cultural tours to Livingstone and Mukuni villages provide warm daytime activities. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River offer spectacular views and wildlife sightings. Remember to pack warm clothes for early morning and evening activities.
- Cool and dry, perfect weather
- Victoria Falls views at their best
- Ideal for all outdoor and water activities
- Excellent game viewing opportunities
- Peak tourist season, book well in advance
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in August
By August, Livingstone's landscape is dry, and wildlife in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park congregates around remaining water sources, providing excellent game viewing opportunities. With virtually no chance of rain, sunny days are almost guaranteed.
The flow over Victoria Falls is reducing, so views are clear, not misty; there are often perfect conditions for activities like whitewater rafting and visits to Devil's Pool. This is an ideal time for walking safaris in the national park. Cultural experiences at local villages are enjoyable in the mild daytime temperatures. Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging at the falls are popular.
Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River offer stunning views and wildlife sightings. Early morning and evening activities can be chilly, so warm clothing is recommended.
- Warm days, cool nights, very dry
- Low water levels, great for Devil's Pool
- White water rafting at its most thrilling
- Wildlife concentrated near water sources
- Very busy, highest prices for accommodation
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in September
September is one of the most popular times to visit Livingstone. Rain is almost unheard of, humidity is low, and temperatures are starting to climb. The flow over Victoria Falls can be greatly reduced and so offers clear views with minimal mist, perfect for photography and activities like the 'Flight of Angels' helicopter rides.
This is prime time for whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River and visiting Devil's Pool. In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, game viewing is at its best as wildlife clusters around scarce water sources. Walking safaris offer excellent opportunities to see animals up close.
Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging are in full swing. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi are particularly beautiful this time of year.
- Hot days, warm nights, very dry
- Low water at the Falls, best for rock swimming
- Excellent for all adventure activities
- Peak time for wildlife viewing
- Still high season, busy and expensive
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in October
As the dry season peaks in Livingstone, the landscape is brown and barren. Victoria Falls is at its lowest flow, revealing the full extent of the rocky gorge. This is the best time for whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River and swimming in Devil's Pool.
In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, game viewing reaches its peak as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. However, temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, reaching over 40°C/104°F in the daytime. This makes walking safaris challenging, especially without shade.
Cultural experiences at local villages are best enjoyed in the cooler mornings or evenings. Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging continue, but the heat can be intense. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi offer a cooler alternative and excellent wildlife viewing.
- Very hot days and nights
- Lowest water levels at Victoria Falls
- Best month for white water rafting
- Wildlife viewing excellent as water scarce
- Tourist numbers start to decrease
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in November
November typically marks the end of the dry season in Livingstone. While the timing of the first rains is uncertain, temperatures remain high and humidity builds.
Victoria Falls is at its lowest flow, offering unique views of the rocky gorge. This is the last chance for activities like swimming in Devil's Pool before water levels rise. In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, wildlife viewing can still be excellent early in the month, but animals start to disperse as soon as the rains arrive.
Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging continue, weather permitting. As the month progresses, the landscape begins to transform with the first rains, bringing a burst of green growth.
- Hot and humid, occasional rain showers
- Water levels at Victoria Falls increasing
- Some adventure activities become limited
- Wildlife starts to disperse with early rains
- Shoulder season, fewer tourists
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Livingstone & Victoria Falls in December
December marks the start of Livingstone's green season, with heavy thunderstorms most days interspersed by sunny spells. Victoria Falls begins to slowly increase in volume, offering a mix of clear views and building mist.
Water-based activities on the Zambezi River, like whitewater rafting, may be suspended as water levels rise.
In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the arrival of rain disperses wildlife, making game viewing more challenging. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive.
The Livingstone Museum provides a great indoor activity option during rainy periods. Cultural experiences at local villages offer insights into seasonal traditions. Despite the rain, adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging continue when weather permits. The landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise.
- Green season begins, hot and humid
- Victoria Falls gaining water volume
- Many adventure activities unavailable
- Wildlife dispersed, viewing more challenging
- Low season, quiet with cheaper rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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