About Sussi & Chuma
Extensively remodelled in 2018, with rustic tree house style chalets dotted along the banks of the Zambezi, ...
... Sussi & Chuma is just 12km away from the world-famous Victoria Falls. Named after David Livingstone’s loyal friends, who carried his body from Zambia back to Dar es Salaam, the lodge is tucked into a section of riverine forest in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, just 15-minutes drive from Livingstone.
If you're adding some time in Livingstone to the end of a Botswana safari with Sussi & Chuma's sister camps, this is a worthy addition. We do feel there are other, perhaps more characterful, lodges in the Livingstone area that stand out more in terms of atmosphere and location - but if you want a good value lodge, with a nice balance of rustic luxury and a wide range of activities (the canoeing, especially, stands out), Sussi & Chuma is a great option.
Our view
If you're adding some time in Livingstone to the end of a Botswana safari with Sussi & Chuma's sister camps, this is a worthy addition. We do feel there are other, perhaps more characterful, lodges in the Livingstone area that stand out more in terms of atmosphere and location - but if you want a good value lodge, with a nice balance of rustic luxury and a wide range of activities (the canoeing, especially, stands out), Sussi & Chuma is a great option.
Country manager: Zambia
Accommodation
12 rooms
Children
Chuma House: all ages. Main lodge: best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Elephant encounter
Fishing
Helicopter
Kayaking
Microlight
White-water rafting
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 8 pictures of Sussi & Chuma to get the candid view.
View gallerySussi & Chuma: Our full report
Extensively remodelled in 2018, with rustic tree house style chalets dotted along the banks of the Zambezi, ...
... Sussi & Chuma is just 12km away from the world-famous Victoria Falls. Named after David Livingstone’s loyal friends, who carried his body from Zambia back to Dar es Salaam, the lodge is tucked into a section of riverine forest in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, just 15-minutes drive from Livingstone.
Sussi & Chuma is part of the Sanctuary group of properties, which includes several luxury lodges in Botswana and Tanzania.
We last visited Sussi & Chuma in September 2017 and, whilst we thought the lodge was in a good location, we felt that the chalets were looking a little dated, and the lodge itself in need of a little overhaul. Since our visit, the lodge has undergone significant remodelling and refurbishment, and we understand it’s looking much fresher.
The main lodge consists of 12 'Sussi' tree houses raised on stilts and perched in giant ebony trees, connected by wooden walkways and overlooking the Zambezi River, as well as two private 'Chuma' houses, each with two bedrooms, perfectly for small groups or families.
Each tree house is airy and spacious, with a large king or twin beds within large mosquito nets dominating the centre of the room. Wooden floors, scattered with rugs, give a rustic look alongside high ceilings with exposed beams under the thatched roof. The rooms were looking a little tired and colourless on our last visit, and the thatch was in need of an overhaul, with squirrel visitors finding their way in to nibble on the biscuit tin while we were out on an activity. However, since the remodelling, the lodge has upgraded the thatch and fully redesigned the interiors. We understand that all of the tree houses are now furnished with more of a Zambian character, with relaxed easy chairs in a map print, or handcrafted rugs inspired by traditional Zambian textiles. Newly painted cream walls are now complemented with by dark wood and furnishing highlights of grey, blue, burnt orange and subtle gold.
Where previously the bath and shower cubicle were a little over-prominent in the room, with little to no privacy for non-couples sharing, the new rooms have been designed more discreetly, with the bathroom area (complete with rainfall shower and a large, freestanding bath tub) now hidden from the main bedroom area by a partition wall, with a screen to pull across if necessary. The luxurious touches are still here, with soft bath mats, cosy dressing gowns, Africology spa products and a well-stocked mini-bar – along with the addition of gym bags and yoga mats in every room, for those who like to add a work-out into their daily routine.
Each tree house has overhead fans as well as air conditioning, though folding doors open up across the front of each tree house out to your own private viewing deck should you prefer some fresh air. We visited in the dry season, when the trees were looking a little bare and so we weren’t afforded much privacy on the deck from those neighbouring, but we understand that screens are now in place to give more privacy on these decks.
The two private Chuma Houses, located a little further along the river, are ideal for couples travelling together or families with young children. Each house has two en-suite bedrooms, a dining area and a spacious lounge, with a wooden deck area and plunge pool. Each house also comes with a chef and house staff, as well as a vehicle and private guide for the duration of your stay.
The opposite side of the lodge grounds, and closer to the tree houses, Sussi & Chuma’s main areas span from a large, bright, open-sided reception and curio shop at the very front of the lodge, connecting to walkways through the large lounge areas, the dining area and the newly refurbished Livingstone Bar.
From what we know of the upgrade, the furnishings in all areas have been updated, with extra seating areas and some new cosier spots for drinking and dining added, both inside and out. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating options, with subtle lighting inside, but large hurricane lanterns outside on the tables, which unfortunately brought every literal moth to the flame. The colour scheme here has also been refreshed, and looks to be a calmer and more stylish section of the lodge. Upstairs, you’ll find the new Explorer Lounge, designed in muted cream and grey. Not only an area to sit and relax, maps and information for travellers to the area are available, on the optional activities on offer, and on local wildlife and history too. Details on Sanctuary’s philanthropic work and Sussi & Chuma’s collaboration with the local Nakatindi school are also on show.
As you follow the pathways winding down to the river, you’ll find a small hut tucked away, with the lodge’s Africology Spa. A variety of treatments are on offer, at an additional cost. There's also a large infinity pool, with loungers under a shade and a large chest full of clean towels.
We have been told that the best views from the lodge, especially for those unforgettable Zambian sunsets, are from the brand new, riverside bar which also overlooks the river. This connects to an extended outdoor dining area and sunset deck, fire pits and a new boma, which we’re sure this is a great spot for a sundowner!
The lodge offers several inclusive activities, including game drives and guided walks in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, tours of the Victoria Falls, sundowners cruises and fishing trips. On our last visit we enjoyed a morning canoeing on the Zambezi – the guides were brilliant and the trip was great fun. Make sure you wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet, as there a few small rapids, but the experienced guides are there to help all of the way!
The team at Sussi & Chuma are on hand to help arrange activities (and, of course, to assist with any aspect of your stay) –and though we couldn't fault the service, especially of the front office manager, who went out of her way to help with all aspects of the trip, the whole lodge had a bit of a disorganised feel. At times there were rather a lot of staff milling around the restaurant, hovering and asking every 5 minutes if they could help, at other times there was no-one in sight to help with a query, or walk guests back to their rooms. Whilst beautiful, we felt Sussi & Chuma lacked some character - though we're hoping that the remodelling will give the lodge a new lease of life, so that the decor and aesthetic appeal match the standards of the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the guides.
Spending some time in Livingstone is a great addition to some time on safari, either in another of Zambia’s national parks, or one of the adjoining countries. Staying at a combination of the Sanctuary camps (including Botswana’s Chobe Chilwero, Stanley’s Camp and Baines, in the Delta, plus Chief’s in Moremi Game Reserve) often entitles you to a long-stay discounted rate – chat to us for more information.
Geographics
- Location
- Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- We'd suggest a stay of at least three nights at Sussi & Chuma, to be able to fully appreciate the range of activities on offer. The lodge also combines well with its sister camps in Botswana as part of a longer safari itinerary.
- Directions
- Sussi and Chuma is located 12km upstream from the Victoria Falls – you’ll need to fly into Livingstone Airport, then the lodge is approximately a 25-minute drive from the airport, mostly on a tar road, though the last km or so is along a dirt track.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Sussi & Chuma is able to cater for different dietary requests, and had a varied menu during our stay.
Breakfast is served buffet style, and includes homemade pastries, muesli and pancakes, along with fruit, yoghurts and cold meat and cheese platters. Cooked options are available on request.
Lunch is served buffet-style, though a packed lunch option is available for those out on a full day activity. Our mint and cucumber soup was a little insipid, but the main courses (crumbed fish, chicken kebabs, a selection of roasted vegetables and Greek, chickpea and beetroot and butternut salads) were all fresh and tasty.
Dinner is chosen from a set three-course menu. We enjoyed the home made vegetable soup and freshly baked bread, followed by a chicken chilli stir fry. The fruit salad could have been more inventive and colourful, but the chocolate torte was delicious. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Private dining options are available.
- Drinks included
- Bottled, filtered drinking water is included, and also provided in the rooms. All local wines and spirits are included, though top shelf spirits and French champagne are an additional cost.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- With no age limit for children, the private Chuma Houses are great options for families in Livingstone. Each comes with a chef, waiter, housekeeper and private guide - and has a private pool and deck area which is deal for families who’d prefer some privacy.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Sussi & Chuma welcomes families with children of all ages in their two private, Chuma Houses. The main lodge is more geared towards adults.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There is no age limit at the Chuma Houses. Children of six and older are welcome with parents at the Sussi tree houses.
- Special activities & services
- Activities are tailored towards any children staying, with private game drives (at extra cost if not staying in the Chuma Houses), nature walks within the grounds of the lodge, story-telling around the fire and trips to the local village and Nakatindi school on offer.
- Equipment
- Cots and highchairs are available on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Whilst we feel the atmosphere of the main lodge is more of an adult environment and thus more suited to older children, the Chuma Houses are ideal for family breaks.
- Notes
- Children between the ages of five and 11 years are permitted to participate on the game drives, at the discretion of the lodge manager. Children under 5 require the permission of the lodge manager, and the family is required to book a private vehicle. The age limit for walking safaris is 12 years.
The lodge sits within a national park, and wild animals often roam through the lodge grounds. The pool and most walkways are unfenced. Children should be supervised at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The lodge has a back-up generator on site.
- Communications
- Sussi & Chuma offers complimentary Wi-Fi, available in the reception and the tree houses. Cell phone signal is found throughout, though the signal strength can vary.
- TV & radio
- The private Chuma Houses have DSTV.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All bathrooms in main lodge and the Chuma Houses have plumbed bathrooms, with hot and cold showers and baths, and flushing toilets. The private houses also have outdoor showers.
Health & safety
- Medical care
- Staff are first aid trained, and there are first aid kits on site. For more serious medical issues, you are approximately a 25-minute drive from the medical centre and hospital in central Livingstone.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There are security guards on watch around the clock, at the main gate and also throughout the camp. You’ll be escorted around the lodge after dark. Safety horns can be found in each room, to attract attention in case of an emergency.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are located in each room, and dotted around the lodge grounds. Staff are trained in their use.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Cultural excursion
Elephant encounter
Fishing
Helicopter
Kayaking
Microlight
White-water rafting
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A complimentary, daily laundry service is available. Your laundry will be washed and line-dried, and ironed on request.
- Money
- Each room has a digital safe. Currency exchange facilities are available in Livingstone, and shuttle transfers to the town are available.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash in most major currencies is accepted as payment, as are Mastercard, Visa and Amex.
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Sussi & Chuma's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Sussi & Chuma.
Excursions from Sussi & Chuma
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Sussi & Chuma. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
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
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 ExpressOther 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.
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
When to go to Livingstone & Victoria Falls
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Sussi & Chuma 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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