Livingstone, Zambia

Livingstone

Livingstone is now a high adventure destination but was once a bustling European settlement named after the intrepid explorer Dr David Livingstone who traversed southern Africa searching for the source of the Nile.

Home of the countrys first newspaper and the capital of Northern Rhodesia as Zambia was known at the time, this town came in to being in 1905, by this time the inspiring Victoria Falls bridge had been built, opening up a railway link between the Copperbelt and coal deposits at Wankie now Hwange in Zimbabwe.

Being the Capital city at that time, Livingstone enjoyed very good facilities and became the place to be. Its Edwardian heritage can still be seen in the colonial buildings lining the main street. However this changed in 1935 when the Capital was moved to Lusaka.

Over the years, neglect has crept in, but there is a certain charm about it even now. Livingstone is currently a hotspot for travellers visiting this part of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, a World Heritage Site.

Climate:

There are 3 very distinct seasons in Zambia:

Sightseeing:

Museums:
The Livingstone Museum is Zambias oldest and biggest museum, operational since the 1930s. Visitors can move through from Archaeology to Ethnology and the Art Gallery, then through Natural History to the History Gallery. There is a large collection of David Livingstone memorabilia, and a library.

The Railway Museum will entertain steam engine enthusiasts with historical locomotives and coaches from the pioneer days, also a photographic collection from that era.

Cruising:
Visitors to Livingstone can relax and view the passing scenery aboard the African Queen a 2 deck cruiser, departing from the local boat club.

Architecture:
Livingstone has some remaining buildings from the colonial era, including the North Western Hotel, St Andrews Anglican Church and Coillard Memorial Church.

Things to do:

Golfing:
Livingstone has a magnificent parkland 18-hole par 72 golf course set in tranquil manicured gardens with many trees. The Livingstone Royal Golf and Country Club has a wonderful historical Edwardian Club House with a long veranda overlooking the fairways.

There are 2 eateries, one for casual meals and the other for a la Carte meals. Other facilities include a pro shop, gym, lawn tennis, swimming pool, play ground and Spa.

Fishing:
Enthusiasts can spend time testing their skills on the beautiful Zambezi River where Tiger Fish, Bream and other varieties can be found.

Flights of fancy:
Visitors can try Microlighting over Victoria Falls, looking down at the massive 2km (1.24 miles) slice into the earth and following the gorges for 8 km (5 miles) or take a helicopter flip, fixed wing flights are also offered.

Walks and Guided tours:
The Rainforest walk next to the Falls is a must - take a coat if getting wet is not an option!  There are lots of walks and guided excursions available in Livingstone and the surrounding area depending on visitors time and interests.

Markets, Curios, Arts and Crafts:
There are 2 colourful markets in Livingstone and 3 art and craft outlets  2 in the town itself (1 with a coffee shop and a vegetarian restaurant) and 1 at the airport. Visitors can browse the many examples of ethnic art and also furniture.

Restaurants:
Livingstone has a variety of eateries, quality independent restaurants and international hotels, and pubs. Visitors can find an Indian Restaurant and takeaways, Chinese food, pubs with grub, fast food, a pizzeria also making shwarmas and burritos, and coffee shops.