LIVINGSTONE

It’s become a bit of a cliché, Livingstone the adventure capital of Southern Africa and Livingstone the tourism capital of Zambia. But the titles are well deserved.

LIVINGSTONE
By Nkwazi Magazine Nov. 11, 2018

Adventure awaits

Getting there.

Proflight has daily flights to Livingstone from Lusaka.

Livingstone is a 6 to 7 hour drive from Lusaka.

It’s become a bit of a cliché, Livingstone the adventure capital of Southern Africa and Livingstone the tourism capital of Zambia. But the titles are well deserved. The town is the ultimate playground for adventure seekers, with a variety of adrenaline pumping activities and is easily accessed from within and outside Zambia. Dust off your adventure gear and head to Livingstone for the thrill of your life.

A leap of faith

Bungee jumping is a rite of passage for any adventure lover who sets foot in Livingstone. The bungee jump will have you descending 111 metres into the Batoka Gorge through which the Zambezi River carves its way. The gorge is massive, about 120 kilometres wide, and incredibly beautiful. It’s home to numerous bird species, hippos and crocodiles, among others.

There’s no more exciting place in the world to bungee jump. If you only do one adventure activity in Livingstone, let it be the bungee jump. Even if you’re not an adventure junkie, there’s no better way to force yourself to face your fears. Take the leap and you will feel invincible afterwards.

Swing into action                                                                                   

Two alternative ways to experience the Batoka Gorge are with the gorge swing and abseiling. The gorge swing is similar to a bungee jump except the rope is placed around your torso, not your ankles. You freefall about 70 metres and then you swing across. You can do the swing solo or do a tandem swing with a courageous partner. Another option is to take in the views as you abseil down the gorge. Once down you can walk the gorge and enjoy lunch at the bottom.

DYK: The gorge swing in Livingstone is the world’s first.

On the edge of glory

The Devil’s Pool is famed as the world’s most stunning and exhilarating natural rock pool, right on the edge of Victoria Falls. Feel the sensation of water of the Zambezi gushing past you as they cascade over into the gorge below. The falls measures 108 metres at its highest. The Devil’s Pool, situated on Livingstone Island is typically open from August to January.

Close to the Devil’s Pool is the lesser-known Angel’s Pool. Your alternative option when the force of the water in its diabolical sister are too high. But don’t be fooled by the name, the experience of the Angel’s Pool is no less thrilling and the views are just as captivating.  

FYI: There are five daily trips to Livingstone Island, from which you can swim to the Devil’s Pool. Be sure to book well in advance though.

Experience the slam-bezi

The Zambezi River has long been recognised as one of the best in the world for white water rafting. As you navigate your way through the class IV and V rapids you’ll understand why it’s nicknamed slam-bezi.  Zambezi offers some of the toughest white water rafting experiences in the world. With rapids bearing names such as ‘Commercial Suicide,’ ‘Terminator I and II,’ ‘Gnashing Jaws of Death,’ and ‘Devil’s Toilet Bowl,’ you know you’re in for a wild ride. Half day, full day and multiple day rafting options are available.

Fun fact – According to Tonga mythology Nyami Nyami is a river god occupying the Zambezi and controlling aspects of life in and around the river. Stay on Nyami Nyami’s good side and he will grant you safe passage.

Fly in the face of fear

Experience heavenly views of the Victoria Falls, Zambezi River and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park from the skies with a microlight flight. Flights are available all year round, weather permitting.  15 to 30 minute flight options are available, as well as personalised charter flights.

Know before you go

You are not permitted to carry your own camera on a flight but microlight aircrafts are fitted with photographic equipment and you can buy photos from your flight.

Limited flights are available so don’t leave your booking till the last minute.

Safaris

You can experience Zambian wildlife from the comfort of a 4×4 vehicle and while this is great, you can take things up a notch. Spend a couple hours walking through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park Tours in a walking safari. Get up close to the antelopes, zebras, giraffes, elephants and the rich birdlife. Also learn about the park’s plant life. Or why not have your safari experience on the mighty Zambezi River. Take your pick of half day, full day and overnight canoe safari options. Other options include fishing safaris and horseback safaris.

Quad biking

There are two trail options available. The eco trail takes you through some rough terrain but is suitable for beginners and advanced riders. Expect to come across some game as you meander through the Zambian bush. The Village Trail allows you to interact with locals and adds a cultural experience to the exciting ride.