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The River Club
The River Club
The River Club
The River Club

About The River Club

The River Club sits high on the banks of the Zambezi River with expansive views both upstream and towards ...

... the Victoria Falls, and across into Zimbabwe. It’s a small, smart lodge at which guests usually stay for 2-3 nights when visiting the Falls. Owned and run by the knowledgeable Peter Jones, the lodge is based around a renovated 1940s’ farmhouse which now forms The River Club’s main area, and has a distinctly colonial feel to it.

The River Club is a very good base for exploring the Victoria Falls and the area in and around Livingstone. Easily accessible from both Livingstone Airport and Botswana’s border, it’s situated far enough from town to be secluded but close enough to visit the Falls as often as you like. The genteel colonial atmosphere won’t suite everyone, but if old-world luxury, good food, and a wide variety of activities are what you’re looking for, we’d recommend The River Club.

STOP PRESS: The River Club closed at the start of 2024; we're waiting to see what will take its place along the Zambezi River, near the town of Livingstone.

Our view

The River Club is a very good base for exploring the Victoria Falls and the area in and around Livingstone. Easily accessible from both Livingstone Airport and Botswana’s border, it’s situated far enough from town to be secluded but close enough to visit the Falls as often as you like. The genteel colonial atmosphere won’t suite everyone, but if old-world luxury, good food, and a wide variety of activities are what you’re looking for, we’d recommend The River Club.

STOP PRESS: The River Club closed at the start of 2024; we're waiting to see what will take its place along the Zambezi River, near the town of Livingstone.

Amanda Bond

Amanda Bond

Country manager: Zambia

Accommodation

10 rooms

Children

Best for 12+

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 The River Club

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


93%
18 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
12
Good
6
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr and Mrs R.fromLondon

Arrived 13 Jun 2019, 3 nights

"The River Club review"

"It is a wonderful establishment in a beautiful place. …" Read Mr and Mrs R.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mark & KatfromUK

Arrived 29 Sep 2016, 3 nights

"12 years later and it did not disappoint!"

"Of all the lodges we stayed at this was by far the best (which was a relief …" Read Mark & Kat’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

G & L fromWashington DC

Arrived 1 Sep 2016, 3 nights

"Paradise on the Zambezi"

"Lynette and I ended our 2 week safari with a 3 night stay here at The River Club …" Read G & L ’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr KfromEssex

Arrived 13 Jun 2015, 3 nights

"The River Club review"

"Excellent place to chill-out. Very attentive staff, and very good at getting …" Read Mr K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms VfromOslo

Arrived 7 Jul 2014, 2 nights

"Beautiful and luxurious"

"It was wonderful to be taken by boat on the river to the River Club on the …" Read Ms V’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs WfromKensington

Arrived 25 Jun 2014, 2 nights

"Great starting point for The Falls"

"Arriving at the Club by boat is fabulous with the hippos in the water for company …" Read Mr & Mrs W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Ms W & Ms TfromArizona

Arrived 25 Jun 2014, 2 nights

"The River Club review"

"Food was great in this camp …" Read Ms W & Ms T’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs BfromCalifornia

Arrived 4 Aug 2013, 2 nights

"All around outstanding @ The River Club"

"This was our 1st stop, 1st time in Africa - flew from San Francisco via London …" Read Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr F & Ms CfromTavistock

Arrived 10 Jul 2013, 3 nights

"The River Club review"

"After a seamless transfer from South Luangwa we were met by boat and travelled …" Read Mr F & Ms C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Lapini EnsemblefromUK

Arrived 15 Sep 2011, 2 nights

"River Club review"

"A very nice place, with big comfortable rooms & a friendly attitude We did …" Read Lapini Ensemble’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

See all The River Club reviews

The River Club: Our full report

The River Club sits high on the banks of the Zambezi River with expansive views both upstream and towards ...

... the Victoria Falls, and across into Zimbabwe. It’s a small, smart lodge at which guests usually stay for 2-3 nights when visiting the Falls. Owned and run by the knowledgeable Peter Jones, the lodge is based around a renovated 1940s’ farmhouse which now forms The River Club’s main area, and has a distinctly colonial feel to it.

Stop press: The River Club closed at the start of 2024; we're waiting to see what will take its place along the Zambezi River, near the town of Livingstone.

The River Club may have been open for only a decade and a half, but visitors could imagine they have stepped back in time to Livingstone’s colonial heyday. From the waiters’ costumes, to the croquet lawn, the billiards room and the vintage Rolls Royce that can be hired for special occasions – some will find the atmosphere contrived and artificial, whilst others will love its historical feel.

In the main area of The River Club, known as Zambezi House, dining, entertainment and relaxation are top priorities. Here you’ll find a large lounge, library and study area stocked with a remarkable array of literature and photographs. As well as detailing Livingstone’s rapid development over the past century or so, these catalogue some of the town’s events and its more eccentric and charismatic residents. Leather chairs and comfortable couches provide a good excuse to just sit and pass the time, and there’s a gigantic fireplace for those chilly winter evenings. Alongside a variety of board games, and in stark contrast to the feel of the rest of the place, there’s a laptop with WiFi, for those wishing to tune back into the 21st century.

To one side of the main room is a tea and coffee station where a buffet breakfast is served. Afternoon tea is also served here, but dinner is usually taken outside on the veranda and eaten as a group (private dining can also be organised on request for special occasions).

In front of Zambezi House, the Club’s plunge pool must have one of the best views in Africa: looking straight out over the Zambezi. This isn’t just a great place to cool off in the heat of the day but also an idyllic setting for private dinners.

A short walk across the croquet lawn brings you to the Summer House, which is decorated with pieces of campaign furniture and old trophies. Here there is a wide-screen TV for any sports fixtures you might want to catch as well as a billiard table and chess set.

There are just ten chalets at The River Club, each named after famous colonial and African figures including explorers, hunters, politicians and royalty. The chalets are constructed on stilts and well spread out in fairly dense vegetation above the Zambezi River, giving each a very secluded feel.

Broadly, there are two types of chalet:

  • Eight are split level, with the bedroom and a small seating area at the top, and views through a screened window to the Zambezi below. This screen serves both to allow a through breeze and to ensure that insects are kept out; there are also mosquito nets on all the beds. From this upper level, where there’s also a separate toilet, quite a steep flight of stairs leads down to the bathroom complete with shower, free-standing bath tub and a second toilet. One of these split-level chalets is a family suite, featuring a second twin bedroom, plus an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool.
  • Two river suites (Rhodes and Livingstone), suitable for the less agile, are spacious chalets set in private gardens with their own private plunge pools and teak decks.

All of the chalets have air conditioning as well as ceiling fans above the beds, plus a fridge with bottled water, and an electronic safe.

Not surprisingly, activities at The River Club are largely based around the Zambezi, both upstream and further down at the Victoria Falls – about 45 minutes’ drive away. The lodge has its own boat which offers leisurely sundowner cruises accompanied by an experienced river guide. On our last visit to The River Club we thought that this was a particularly well-run activity which really took advantage of the Club’s peaceful location. Although there are a couple of other lodges in the vicinity with their own boats, you won’t see anywhere near the volume of traffic you might expect further downstream.

If being on the water is really your thing then why not try your hand at a spot of fishing? Whether a novice or an experienced angler you can spend a morning using the Club’s tackle before returning in time for lunch. Also on offer, of course, are tours of the Falls as well as visits to a local village (where many of the staff live with their families).

For those looking to keep fit while away, The River Club has its own tennis courts and even a couple of running tracks which ring the property.

Geographics

Location
Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
Ideal length of stay
We’d recommend a stay of around two or three nights at The River Club depending on how many activities you’d like to engage in at The Falls.
Directions
The River Club can be reached by road transfer either from Livingstone Airport (about 40 minutes) or from the town of Kasane in Botswana. The Club also has its own helipad.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Yes – for special occasions.
Drinks included
Soft drinks, bottled water, spirits, local beers and a selection of (generally) South African wines are included. Imported wines and spirits and champagne cost extra – and may need to be requested in advance.

Special interests

Luxury
The River Club has one of the best views over the Zambezi and a delightful, old-fashioned, quite colonial character; exemplified by croquet lawn, a billiard room and a vintage Rolls Royce. Just ten smart, split-level chalets line the riverbank – complete with beautiful canopied beds.
See ideas for Luxury in Zambia

Children

Attitude towards children
River Club is very happy to welcome older, well-behaved children.
Property’s age restrictions
Minimum age is 6 years old.
Special activities & services
The River Club can arrange childrens meals, but there's no babysitting possible.
Equipment
None available.
Generally recommended for children
Yes - but only for older children.
Notes
Parents need to understand that there is no fence around the infinity pool, and that the atmosphere hiere is a fairly 'adult' one ... so loud or unruly children wouldn't fit in well.

Communications

Communications
There is WiFi in the main building, and a computer that guests can use.
TV & radio
There is a TV in The Summer House for special sporting events but fundamentally the river's the main entertainment, and there's a fair bit of birdlife and wildlife to watch too!

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Nearest doctor is in Livingstone, about 30mins drive away.



Quadbike warning: quad-biking is sometimes available as an activity from The River Club. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it’s vital that you take responsibility for ensuring that you have adequate travel insurance prior to getting involved. Be aware that some insurances cover quad-bike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings: check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
The security here is very good - with an electric fence and radio-controlled security guards. Every room has individual digital safes.
Fire safety
Extinguishers outside every room and well kitted-out with fire hose system

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
In Place
Laundry facilities
Full Laundry Service - Included
Accepted payment on location
Visa & MasterCard are accepted without extra charge; Amex and Diners card are not.

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The River Club's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of The River Club.


Excursions from The River Club

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at The River Club. 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)
Islands of Siankaba

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.


96% (54 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)
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 The River Club 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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