The Royal Livingstone Hotel – Zambezi

A Rich History (With a Touch of Safari Drama)

This majestic hotel is named after none other than Dr. David Livingstone, the intrepid British explorer who famously stumbled upon Victoria Falls in 1855 and promptly named it after Queen Victoria. (Clearly, subtlety wasn’t his thing.)

While Dr. Livingstone may have hacked his way through the jungle with a machete and malaria meds, you can explore this wild corner of Zambia with a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc in one hand and a linen napkin in the other. The hotel’s architecture evokes colonial charm, with wide verandas, whirring ceiling fans, and antique touches that whisper of a bygone era—without sacrificing Wi-Fi, of course.

Location, Location… ROAR

If proximity to greatness is your thing, this hotel hits the jackpot. You are a stone’s throw from Victoria Falls—or more accurately, a soft amble through a private gate into Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Yes, private gate. No queues, no busloads, no chaos—just you, the mist, and the majesty of “The Smoke That Thunders.”

Even better? You can actually hear the falls from your plush suite, and if you’re lucky, the mist will drift in like a soft kiss from Mother Nature herself. Romantic? Absolutely.

Rooms That Whisper Luxury

Each room and suite at the Royal Livingstone is a masterclass in refined African luxury. Think polished wooden floors, hand-carved headboards, and bathtubs big enough to host a board meeting (though we strongly recommend bubbles over business).

But the real show-stealer? The private verandas. Perfect for early morning tea or late-night stargazing, you’ll have a front-row seat to wildlife meandering through the hotel grounds. One morning, I spotted a giraffe nibbling on a tree just meters away. Another day, I found a curious impala inspecting my sunhat.

Don’t worry—they’re all friendly. Very photogenic, too.

Food Fit for Explorers and Emperors

Dining here is an experience, not just a necessity. From hearty African stews to grilled river fish and tender cuts of game, every dish is carefully curated, gorgeously plated, and served with a side of river breeze.

High tea on the veranda is a must. Picture silver teapots, scones, and petit fours with the Zambezi flowing past and a zebra or two trying to casually join the party.

In the evenings, sip a sunset cocktail at the Lounge Bar, where the sky puts on a show of gold, crimson, and tangerine, and the river reflects it all like a moving painting.

Go Wild – Nature at Your Doorstep

Let’s talk adventure. The Royal Livingstone knows how to treat your inner explorer.

Guided tours of Victoria Falls? Absolutely.

River cruises at dusk with hippos grunting and birds swooping low? Of course.

Game drives through nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park? Get your binoculars ready.

Feeling bold? Try a helicopter flight over the falls, and watch this jaw-dropping UNESCO site from the clouds.

And yes, there are safety briefings, and no, you cannot pack a zebra in your suitcase.

The Royal Spa – Healing by the River

After a day of dodging warthogs and chasing waterfalls, the Royal Spa awaits like a soft sigh of relief. Located right by the water, the spa is surrounded by lush gardens and birdsong.

Here, you can indulge in African-inspired treatments, using local oils and herbs that smell so good you’ll want to marinate in them. I had a Baobab body wrap that left me feeling like a well-fed cat in the sun. Highly recommend.

Final Thoughts – A Love Affair with Zambia

The Royal Livingstone Hotel isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an experience, a memory, and a little slice of river-hewn heaven. It’s where luxury meets untamed Africa, where history leans into adventure, and where you’re reminded—day after day—that Mother Nature is the real five-star attraction.

Whether you’re a safari first-timer, a hopeless romantic, or someone who simply loves the smell of wildflowers and the sight of a hippo at happy hour, this hotel is for you.

So, come for the falls. Stay for the zebras, the sunsets, and the sheer joy of being in one of the most magical places on Earth.

And don’t forget your hat. The giraffes might try it on.

Pampering and Relaxation

After a day of adventure, guests can unwind and rejuvenate at The Royal Spa. Indulge in a variety of treatments. Inspired by African traditions, using natural ingredients sourced from the region. The serene spa setting is surrounded by lush gardens. Right on the banks of the Zambezi. Finally, giving guests time is another way to reconnect with nature while enjoying a range of massages, facials, and body treatments.