About Royal Livingstone Hotel
The five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel sits amongst landscaped gardens on the banks of the Zambezi River.
Despite being a modern build, the hotel has an old-world, colonial style to it. Its location, with the Victoria Falls just 15 minutes’ walk away, is good, and during periods of high water, you can often see the spray of the Falls from the hotel grounds.
The rooms at the Royal Livingstone Hotel are smaller than we'd expect for a five-star hotel of this price, but its grounds are beautiful and its convenient location near the Victoria Falls is what you're really paying for. If your style is less formal, you may prefer the hotel's three-star sibling next door – though even if you stay there, we'd recommend that you eat dinner at the Royal Livingstone, or at least pop over for afternoon tea.
Our view
The rooms at the Royal Livingstone Hotel are smaller than we'd expect for a five-star hotel of this price, but its grounds are beautiful and its convenient location near the Victoria Falls is what you're really paying for. If your style is less formal, you may prefer the hotel's three-star sibling next door – though even if you stay there, we'd recommend that you eat dinner at the Royal Livingstone, or at least pop over for afternoon tea.
Country manager: Zambia
Accommodation
172 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 Royal Livingstone Hotel
89 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryRoyal Livingstone Hotel: Our full report
The five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel sits amongst landscaped gardens on the banks of the Zambezi River.
Despite being a modern build, the hotel has an old-world, colonial style to it. Its location, with the Victoria Falls just 15 minutes’ walk away, is good, and during periods of high water, you can often see the spray of the Falls from the hotel grounds.
The Royal Livingstone shares its sprawling property with its slightly larger sister hotel, the three-star Avani Victoria Falls Resort. A shuttle operates between the two at regular intervals during the day, or it's a straightforward ten-minute walk.
The Royal Livingstone is a large, hotel with 172 rooms and suites decorated in a Victorian colonial style. Housed over 17 two-storey buildings, they all have air conditioning, as well as a veranda or balcony facing the Zambezi River. The rooms are divided into three categories:
- 135 'deluxe' rooms have either twin or king-size beds and are modest in size, but well appointed. You can expect the usual mod cons such as a hairdryer, minibar, safe, satellite TV and tea/coffee making station. The en-suite bathroom is compact, but has a separate bath and walk-in shower. Shower gel, soap and shampoo are provided as standard.
- An additional 34 ’deluxe corner’ rooms have an additional sunroom, with either river or garden views.
- Two ‘Livingstone’ suites, each of which is over double the size of the 'deluxe' rooms. Their amenities are similar, but they also have a dressing area and a separate lounge.
- The Presidential Suite at the Royal Livingstone is expansive, with a separate kliving and dining room, and a large terrace overlooking the river.
No less opulent is the Royal Livingstone's smart dining room, with its à la carte menu. Guests may alternatively dine al fresco on the veranda, but be aware that prices are quite steep and you can expect to pay upwards of around US$15 (about £10) for a sandwich or salad. In the dining room, as in the bar, note that the dress code is 'smart casual'. As an alternative, a ten-minute stroll (or short shuttle transfer) brings you to the neighbouring Avani Victoria Falls (formerly the Zambezi Sun), which offers a greater choice of restaurants and more informal dining.
The grounds of the Royal Livingstone are particularly lovely. In addition to being home to a few wandering zebra and giraffe, the manicured lawns next to the river make a perfect setting for the large swimming pool and surrounding sunloungers, as well as the Royal Spa's row of individual treatment rooms stretched along the riverbank. A sundeck built on stilts over the Zambezi makes a pleasant spot to enjoy a drink and dinner at the Kubu Bar, and when the spray from the Falls is visible (usually between December and July), the views are spectacular. The deck is a very popular spot for sundowners, so you may want to reserve a spot at reception (at the Royal Livingstone or Avani) if you fancy an evening cocktail here.
For the more active, the Royal Livingstone has a well-equipped, air-conditioned gym located quietly at the back of the hotel. A small, but smart, well-stocked curio shop completes the picture.
Many of the numerous activities available at the Victoria Falls can be booked and paid for prior to your arrival at the Royal Livingstone, but there is also an activity desk at the hotel reception where these can be arranged locally and added to your bill. For most visitors, however, the Falls themselves are the greatest draw, with a 15-minute walk bringing you to a private entrance gate that is open between 6.00am and 6.00pm daily. Entrance to the Falls is included for guests staying at the Royal Livingstone, and you can visit as many times as you like. There are also three nature trails on the property, where you could well come across zebras, giraffe or even impala. They're quite used to people, but do keep a respectful distance as they're still wild animals.
Also on the property, just a few minutes from Avani, is the Falls Entertainment Centre. Here you'll find an informal à la carte restaurant, a small café, a few craft and souvenir shops, and another activity centre – which is a regular pick-up point for activities such as white-water rafting.
The Royal Livingstone is a beautiful hotel, with an old-world attention to detail and service. Despite its colonial design, though, it's worth remembering that the hotel was constructed in 2001, and has many modern design elements to it. Although this works well for the most part, these different characteristics can sometimes clash. For example, the porters often drive you to your room in an electric buggy, which can spoil the 'historical' feeling of the property. If you are looking for a luxury hotel in the Victoria Falls area, but would prefer a property with a more authentic history, then it would be well worth looking at the Victoria Falls Hotel on the Zimbabwe side of the Falls.
Geographics
- Location
- Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- Two or three nights is a typical stay at the Royal Livingstone, though the ideal depends on how much or how little you wish to do while here. For those who want to fit in a lot of activities and still allow a bit of time for rest and relaxation, four or five nights might be better.
- Directions
- There are daily flights into Livingstone Airport from Lusaka and Johannesburg, then it's around 25 minutes by road to the Royal Livingstone Hotel. Alternatively, transfer overland from Kasane in Botswana, which takes around 1½–2 hours.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- The restaurant at the Royal Livingstone is open daily for breakfast (7.00–10.30am), lunch (12.30– 2.30pm) and dinner (6.30–10.30pm). Note that advance reservations are often essential for dinner.
High tea is served in the formal lounge and on the adjacent outdoor terrace between 3.00 and 5.00pm, with an assortment of teas, coffees, cakes and savoury treats. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is available.
- Drinks included
- No.
Water from the taps is drinkable, and complimentary bottled water is supplied in the rooms.
Special interests
- Luxury
- This luxury hotel combines modern comforts with an old-world, colonial style. At Royal Livingstone Hotel expect flamboyant décor including wing-backed chairs, plump couches, wrought-iron chandeliers and a piano in the lounge: a perfect ambience for smart cocktails before dinner.
- See ideas for Luxury in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages may stay at the Royal Livingstone.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- Babysitting services are available at extra cost.
- Equipment
- Cots are available for children under two years old, but children older than this will need to have their own room (though interleading rooms are available).
- Generally recommended for children
- The Royal Livingstone has a formal, adult atmosphere, whereas its sister hotel next door, the Avani, has a much more welcoming atmosphere and is really geared towards families with young children.
- Notes
- Be aware that this is a malarial area. The pool is unfenced and there is some wildlife – including baboons, monkeys, giraffes and zebras – on the property. Children need to be under parental supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Royal Livingstone Hotel
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Royal Livingstone Hotel 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.
100% success
56% success
43% success
13% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The property has a back-up generator that is automatically switched on during power outages.
- Communications
- The hotel has good communication facilities, including a telephone and WiFi in all the rooms. The first 250MB of data is free, and extra data can be paid for.
- TV & radio
- There are televisions in all the rooms, with limited satellite channels.
- Water supply
- Mains
- Water supply notes
- The water from the taps is from the main supply and is drinkable. However, there is also complimentary bottled water in the minibar of each room.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is in Livingstone, about 25 minutes’ drive away.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- The grounds of the Royal Livingstone are surrounded by an electric fence and there is a gate guard on duty at all times.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are dotted around the hotel, and there are well-demarcated fire assembly points in the area too.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Elephant encounter
Fishing
Helicopter
Kayaking
Microlight
White-water rafting
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is offered, at additional cost.
- Money
- There is a safe in each room at the Royal Livingstone.
- Accepted payment on location
- Mastercard and Visa credit cards are accepted. Cash payments may be made only in Zambian kwacha, but there are currency exchange facilities on the property.
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Royal Livingstone Hotel's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Royal Livingstone Hotel.
Excursions from Royal Livingstone Hotel
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Royal Livingstone Hotel. 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.
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.
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.
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 Royal Livingstone Hotel 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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