Livingstone

CitySouthern, Zambia

Livingstone is a CITY in Southern, Zambia.

Livingstone, Zambia, is a historic city named after the famous explorer David Livingstone and serves as the gateway to the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The city blends rich colonial heritage with vibrant local culture, offering visitors a mix of adventure, history, and relaxation. Key attractions include the Livingstone Museum, the largest in Zambia, and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to diverse wildlife. The city's proximity to the Zambezi River provides opportunities for thrilling activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and sunset cruises. Livingstone's bustling markets and friendly locals add to its charm, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both excitement and cultural immersion.

Best time to visit Livingstone

The best time to visit Livingstone is from May to October, during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant, and the Victoria Falls are at their most spectacular. This period also offers optimal wildlife viewing in nearby parks. The wet season (November to April) brings lush landscapes but can make some activities inaccessible due to high water levels.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Clear
Temperature
38°
Feels like
35°
Humidity
13%
Wind
11 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Hot 26-34°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Hottest month, good for swimming in Devil's Pool

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

LVI

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport

International

5 km away

VFA

Victoria Falls Airport

International

20 km away

Getting around

"Livingstone offers various transportation options, including taxis, which are the most convenient but should be negotiated before the ride. Minibuses are a cheaper alternative but can be crowded. Car rentals are available for those who prefer self-driving, but be mindful of local driving conditions. Walking is feasible in the city center, but distances to major attractions may require transport."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes in city centre

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

260

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Tourist areas are well-policed; use common sense in crowded places.

Night safety

7/10

Tourist areas are well-policed; use common sense in crowded places.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Livingstone is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. When engaging in adventure activities, always use reputable operators and follow safety guidelines."

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers to Livingstone should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccines and consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, and it's advisable to carry insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets. Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases."

Culture

Local customs

"Greetings are important in Zambian culture; always greet people politely before starting a conversation. Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is customary in restaurants. Respect local traditions and ask for permission before taking photos of people."
EnglishBembaTongaLozi

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Tours and activities (e.g., bungee jumping, helicopter rides) are additional costs, often $100-200.

Timezone

Africa/Lusaka +02:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

0.2 million

Area

695 km²

Government

Municipal Council

ISO code

LVI

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Livingstonas, لیونگسٹون, 리빙스턴, 利文斯敦, لفنستون, ليفينغستون;ليفينجستون, Ливингстон, Livingstone, Լիվինգսթոն, ലിവിംഗ്സ്റ്റൺ, リヴィングストン, Ливингстън, ליווינגסטון, Λίβινγκστον, Марамба

AdventureNatureHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingWildlife