This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba
Islands of Siankaba

About Islands of Siankaba

Upstream from the Victoria Falls, about 45km from Livingstone, the very peaceful Islands of Siankaba is built ...

... on two densely forested islands, linked by short suspension bridges. Well away from the hustle and bustle of the Falls, it offers upmarket facilities in a secluded environment.

Islands of Siankaba is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few nights; the surroundings are beautiful, the rooms luxurious, and the food and staff excellent. Being some distance from the Falls it’s not affected by the buzz of helicopters and microlights, making it a great spot to unwind after a safari in Botswana or Zambia yet still a reasonably convenient base from which to visit the Victoria Falls.

Our view

Islands of Siankaba is a peaceful and relaxing place to spend a few nights; the surroundings are beautiful, the rooms luxurious, and the food and staff excellent. Being some distance from the Falls it’s not affected by the buzz of helicopters and microlights, making it a great spot to unwind after a safari in Botswana or Zambia yet still a reasonably convenient base from which to visit the Victoria Falls.

Megan Green

Megan Green

Zambia expert

Accommodation

7 chalets

Children

Best for 14+

Open

All year

Activities

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Canoeing

Canoeing

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Elephant encounter

Elephant encounter

Fishing

Fishing

Helicopter

Helicopter

Kayaking

Kayaking

Microlight

Microlight

White-water rafting

White-water rafting

Traveller reviews of Islands of Siankaba

54 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


96%
54 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
44
Good
9
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
0
A & BfromLarbert

Arrived 28 Aug 2018, 3 nights

"Good chill out at end of Safari"

"Staff were really friendly and attentive at all times. …" Read A & B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr DfromWitney

Arrived 16 Sep 2017, 3 nights

"Peaceful start at Islands of Siankaba"

"the staff couldn't have been nicer. …" Read Mr D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr JfromSan Diego

Arrived 26 Jun 2017, 2 nights

"Islands of Siankaba review"

"The Islands of Siankaba was an excellent way to end our trip to Zambia. …" Read Mr J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr Nick FosterfromUK

Arrived 19 Sep 2016, 3 nights

"Islands of Siankaba review"

"This was an excellent lodge which unfortunately had few guests. The staff were …" Read Mr Nick Foster’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr R&UfromNorthwood

Arrived 29 Jun 2016, 2 nights

"peaceful Islands of Siankaba"

"This was a perfect place to unwind after the fantastic safari. The setting …" Read Mr R&U’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Lovers of AfricafromUK

Arrived 15 May 2016, 3 nights

"R&R at Islands of Siankaba"

"We ended our trip at Islands of Siankaba in Zambia, from where we visited the …" Read Lovers of Africa’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs RfromHarrogate

Arrived 25 Sep 2015, 2 nights

"Great start to our holiday - superb location"

"the only slight concern we had was not being aware in advance that we needed …" Read Mrs R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Two TravellersfromUK

Arrived 24 Aug 2015, 3 nights

"Islands of Siankaba review"

"The Islands of Siankaba was a wonderful place to relax at the end of our holiday, …" Read Two Travellers’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms RfromRotherhithe

Arrived 28 May 2015, 2 nights

"Lovely setting on the Zambezi"

"Islands of Siankaba was fantastic. A really great venture (apparently UK owned) …" Read Ms R’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs BfromWales

Arrived 4 Mar 2015, 3 nights

"Wow"

"This really was something different. Lovely lodge over the river superb service …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Islands of Siankaba reviews

Islands of Siankaba: Our full report

Upstream from the Victoria Falls, about 45km from Livingstone, the very peaceful Islands of Siankaba is built ...

... on two densely forested islands, linked by short suspension bridges. Well away from the hustle and bustle of the Falls, it offers upmarket facilities in a secluded environment.

To get to Islands of Siankaba from the main road you travel 7km down a dirt track through open bush to the lodge's reception and small curio shop. From here, it's a five-minute boat ride to the main island, where you ascend a decked pathway to the beautifully decorated main lodge. This comprises the main bar and dining area where superb meals are served. The adjacent lounge is furnished with comfortable sofas and armchairs in a palette of greens, oranges and deep reds that reminded us of the rich tones of forests in autumn. There is also a small library of books, and a selection of board games.

On a large terrace in front of the main lodge, seating areas with wooden tables and chairs, benches or sunloungers are dotted about under the trees or positioned to take advantage of the sunshine. A cushion-clad bench surrounds the firepit with lovely views over the Zambezi – the perfect place for a drink in the evening. A short stroll away you'll find a secluded swimming pool with a few sunloungers, and a small spa, where the range of beauty treatments (at additional cost) includes massages, manicures and facials. Some of these treatments can also be done in your chalet, usually on the deck overlooking the Zambezi.

On the second island, seven stylish suites are positioned around the island’s edge. With the thick vegetation on the island they each feel wonderfully secluded, with the only sounds coming from the birds, the insects, and the Zambezi rapids in the distance. Siankaba's chalets are raised two to three metres from the ground and have their own private balconies with comfortable chairs, overlooking the river.

In contrast to their half-canvas walls and roof, the chalet interiors ooze luxury and comfort. Polished teak furniture sits on polished teak floors, offset by thick rugs. There are comfortable beds, either twin or double, with an electric blanket, an integral ceiling fan, and mosquito nets hung like four-poster curtains. Good reading lights complement the otherwise subdued lighting. Each room has its own mini-fridge and safe tucked discreetly away in a cupboard. Although there is a tea and coffee station, nothing seems to be too much trouble for the team at Siankaba, and they thoughtfully offer tea or coffee with your morning wake-up call.

Your bathroom is set on a platform to the rear of the chalet, complete with regal claw-footed bathtub and twin pedestal china basins, as well as a modern shower and separate toilet. Soap, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and thoughtful touches like floating candles, hand and body lotion, and bathrobes are also provided, adding to the sense of luxury. You are also supplied with insect repellent and a bug spray.

Islands of Siankaba is 50 minutes' drive from the Falls, and a visit is included in the rates. However, this distance means that it may not be ideal for travellers who only have one or two nights in this area. Better to stay for three nights here, or to focus on the lodge's activities, which spend time on the islands and the river. These include sunset cruises, and guided birding and tree walks, and there is a 1.5km nature trail that runs round one of the islands. Led by a member of staff, the walks through local villages – or cycling for the more active (note the bicycles with bamboo frames here!) – are particularly good.

Our visit to the community nursery school, an option during term-time, was a real highlight on our previous stay, as was returning to the lodge on the river by mokoro (a traditional dug-out canoe).

Catch-and-release fishing in season is also an option.

Geographics

Location
Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
Ideal length of stay
We recommend a stay of at least two nights at Islands of Siankaba, but three would give visitors a day to explore the Falls, and a day to make the most of the tranquility of the lodge.
Directions
Siankaba is 35 minutes by vehicle from Kazungula, or 50 minutes by minibus from Livingstone Airport, plus a further five minutes by boat.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
Islands of Siankaba has quite rightly acquired a great reputation for its cuisine, and we have found the food to be consistently excellent. With advance notice, the lodge can cater for special dietary requirements.

Breakfast and lunch are usually served at individual tables, and if you prefer a private table in the evening, that’s also possible.

We were disappointed not to have the time on our last trip to enjoy a meal here. However, on a previous visit we arrived in time for lunch. Served as a platter, this offered the choice of grilled pork skewers, vegetable tartlets, a butternut and feta salad, and a green salad. We couldn't resist the homemade vanilla ice cream that followed.

Afternoon tea was substantial, ranging from chocolate brownies and vanilla cake, to scones with jam and cream.

Dinner was particularly good with a convivial atmosphere around the communal table. We were served a starter of tasty butternut and ginger soup followed by Zambezi bream, beautifully presented and simply fried, with new potatoes and fresh greens. To really top things off pudding was a warm lemon soufflé, light and tart.

Breakfast is prepared to order. We had a wide range of choices from homemade muesli and yoghurt, to a fresh fruit platter, muffins and pastries baked that morning. A full cooked option is also available. Tea, coffee and fruit juices are served.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
No, although tea and coffee can be brought to your chalet in the morning.
Drinks included
All soft and alcoholic drinks are included, save for premium brands and champagne.

The filtered water is safe to drink, but there is also a plentiful supply of bottled water.

Special interests

Honeymoons
Islands of Siankaba is a remote, peaceful spot affording understated luxury, ideal for recuperation before or after a safari. With private rooms and a spa, it’s also an ideal spot for a honeymoon in Zambia.
See ideas for Honeymoons in Zambia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children aged 10 years and over are welcome.
Property’s age restrictions
Minimum age 10.
Special activities & services
No
Equipment
None
Generally recommended for children
Although some of the activities at Siankaba, such as island walks, fishing and village walks, could be great fun for children, the lodge is very open to the water and the drop from the decks is substantial. However welcome the staff might make families feel, the presence of enthusiastic children is likely to impact on the lodge's tranquil atmosphere, so we consider it best for older children only.
Notes
The lodge is in close proximity to fast-flowing water, with a 2–3-metre drop from the raised walkways. There is no fence around the pool. Children must be supervised by their parents at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Islands of Siankaba

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Islands of Siankaba have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

White Rhino

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Buffalo

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
The lodge has a generator, which comes on automatically in the case of a power outage.
Communications
There is usually cellphone reception on the island, and WiFi is available in the lounge area next to the bar.
TV & radio
No
Water supply
Other
Water supply notes
Water is pumped from the river, which is then filtered through a four-stage filter to make it safe to drink and wash with. However, if you prefer there is a plentiful supply of bottled water on the island.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Livingstone, approximately 45 minutes' drive away, or seven minutes by helicopter in the event of medical evacuation. Staff are all first-aid trained.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
Several nightwatchmen patrol the islands, and there is a whistle attached to the room key to attract attention in case of emergency.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers in all the chalets.

Activities

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Canoeing

    Canoeing

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Elephant encounter

    Elephant encounter

  • Fishing

    Fishing

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Kayaking

    Kayaking

  • Microlight

    Microlight

  • White-water rafting

    White-water rafting

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
Full Laundry Service - Included
Money
There are safes in the chalets. There are no currency exchange facilities.
Accepted payment on location
Visa, MasterCard and cash in the form of Zambian kwacha are accepted in the curio shop and for any extras. However, tipping in US dollars is fine.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Islands of Siankaba's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Islands of Siankaba.


Excursions from Islands of Siankaba

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Islands of Siankaba. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Chobe Day Trip

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
100% (1 reviews)
Fishing on the Zambezi River

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
80% (1 reviews)
Guided tour of Victoria Falls

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
100% (5 reviews)
Helicopter Flight - Zambia

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
100% (7 reviews)
Historical Bridge Tour

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

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
96% (9 reviews)
Rhino Walk

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
95% (4 reviews)
Royal Livingstone Express

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
87% (3 reviews)
The Elephant Café

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 Café
80% (2 reviews)

Other lodges in Livingstone & Victoria Falls

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Avani Victoria Falls

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.


85% (234 reviews)
Royal Livingstone Hotel

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.


94% (89 reviews)
Tongabezi

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.


94% (65 reviews)
Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

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.


98% (62 reviews)
Toka Leya Camp

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.


89% (23 reviews)
The River Club

The River Club

The River Club, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, overlooks the Zambezi River.


93% (18 reviews)
Sindabezi

Sindabezi

Sindabezi, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, is an island in the middle of the Zambezi River


98% (16 reviews)
Thorntree River Lodge

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.


100% (7 reviews)
David Livingstone Safari Lodge

David Livingstone Lodge

The four-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge is in a lovely spot on the edge of the Zambezi River in Zambia, close to the Victoria Falls.


86% (7 reviews)
Tangala House

Tangala House

Tangala House, the family home near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls


No reviews yet
Sussi & Chuma

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.


No reviews yet

When to go to Livingstone & Victoria Falls

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Islands of Siankaba 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

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa