Magical Victoria Falls from The Royal Livingstone Hotel
- Sheetal Prabhu
- Sep 21, 2024
- 5 min read
Visiting the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the world's natural wonders has always been a dream on my bucket list. Now, living in Johannesburg, South Africa, this dream was just an hours flight away to witness this spectacular wonder with my own eyes.
After, a lot of reading and research we concluded that if we wanted to experience these majestic falls up close then what better place to stay than the Royal Livingstone with its magical location on the banks of the Zambezi River, and just a short walk from the falls themselves. It’s so close to Victoria Falls that you can hear the thundering water and see the top of them from the gardens, along with the fine spray they create.
Grand Welcome
Upon our arrival at Livingstone Airport, we were greeted by the hotel driver who then drove us to the Royal Landing Jetty. Our luggage was left in the car for delivery to the hotel. Following a welcome drink, we embarked on an exciting 10-minute boat ride downstream towards the enchanting mist of Victoria Falls. It was a breathtaking experience as we sped past the Zambezi River, catching sight of hippos along the way.
On reaching the Sun Deck of the Royal Livingstone, we were welcomed by warm smiles and the soul-stirring sound of African drums. The enchanting atmosphere, coupled with the breathtaking view of the misty spray from the falls in the background, left us awestruck. As we proceeded towards the Hotel Reception, we were amazed by the sight of Impalas and Zebras gracefully leading the way.
Victorian Charm in an African Setting
Named in honour of a renowned African explorer, the Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara beautifully captures the sophistication and charm of the Victorian period. Stepping into the hotel feels like entering a bygone era of enduring craftsmanship and regal luxury. It exudes a majestic opulence that is awe-inspiring yet contemporary, blending seamlessly with the modern world.
With over 170 luxurious rooms and suites adorned in a colonial aesthetic, each featuring private verandas overlooking the river, the hotel offers a refined setting. The elegant suites are grouped in two-story clusters reminiscent of the grand estates of yesteryears. Adorned with exquisite paintings and black-and-white photographs of historic pioneers, the ambiance reflects the splendour of the colonial era with a touch of authentic African warmth.
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR TRIP:
Flight of Angels (Extended Journey): Named after David Livingstone's famous diary entry praising the breathtaking views of Victoria Falls as 'scenes so lovely they must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight', this a unique helicopter excursion that maneuvers through the Batuka Gorge for a magnificent view of the falls was truly unforgettable. We opted for the extended journey that took us over falls giving us a bird's eye view from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, followed by a downstream course, where we marveled at the remarkable geology of Batoka Gorge, a testament to the Zambezi River's path through the terrain. Our pilot then navigated along the Zambezi River towards the rapids before circling back above the falls, offering an aerial view of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and its beautiful inhabitants, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
A Walk to the Falls:
Staying at either the Royal Livingstone Hotel or its sister property, Avani, grants guests complimentary access to Victoria Falls.
Less than a kilometer away, strolling along a delightful path while capturing stunning photos of giraffes and other wildlife grazing, we were led to the entrance of Victoria Falls National Park. At the falls' entrance, there is a craft market showcasing a range of local handicrafts. Once within the park, marked pathways guided us to different viewpoints of the magnificent Victoria Falls, offering spectacular of the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Zambezi River.
The Knife's Edge Bridge, which spans a deep gorge, provides access to the westernmost viewing point on the Zambian side. The Boiling Pot trail leads to a steep descent into the Boiling Pot, while another path runs upstream along the Falls' edge, offering a view of the Zambezi River before it plunges over the edge into the gorge.
The Boiling Pot Trail: Trekking through the eastern edge of Gorge 2 on Zambian side lead us to the swirling and turbulent spectacle “ The Boiling Pot ” The 'Boiling Pot' forms a perpetual vortex of whirlpool where two Zambezi River streams meet offering a unique perspective of the Falls' beauty compared to the view from the top. From this spot, you can enjoy a stunning view of Victoria Falls and the Victoria Falls Bridge. The hike is a 110-meter descent from the eastern edge of Gorge 2 in Zambia, providing breathtaking scenery on the way down and a challenging ascent. The trail is a well-marked trail with rails and boulders offering support and resting spots during the climb out of the gorge.
Cross the Bridge Between Zimbabwe and Zambia:
Whether you opt to stay on the Zimbabwean or Zambian side, why limit yourself to viewing the majestic Victoria Falls from only one perspective when you can easily enjoy it from both sides?
This natural wonder straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, making it a truly unique sight to behold. If you are based in Victoria Falls and wish to explore the Falls from Zambia, or if you are staying in Livingstone and want to witness the Falls from Zimbabwe, crossing between the countries is a seamless process. To facilitate your travels, you will need a visa to cross between Zimbabwe and Zambia, which can be obtained by either paying $50 USD for a KAZA UniVisa at the border or by purchasing Zimbabwe e-Visa and Zambia e-Visa online in advance.
Lunch at the Look-out Cafe (ZIM side): Perched on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, on the Zimbabwean side, this open-air café was a sensory delight. With breathtaking views of the gorges and Zambezi River below, the Lookout Cafe was more than a meal spot. I would just return for the stunning scenery alone. Positioned on the Batoka Gorge's edge, overlooking the Zambezi rapids cascading over 100 meters below, this picturesque spot is home to adrenaline junkies. You can observe thrill-seekers enjoying activities like the gorge swing, zip line, and flying fox, or if brave enough join in on the adrenaline-pumping adventures yourself.
High-Tea at Stanley Terrace at the Victoria Falls Hotel (ZIM side): Even if you are not staying at the Victoria Falls Hotel on the Zimbabwean side, it is a must-visit destination to experience its Victorian-era charm. You don't have to be a guest to enjoy this gem; it's perfect for an afternoon visit to indulge in its renowned High Tea. Immerse yourself in the colonial ambiance and admire the breathtaking views of the "smoke that thunders."
FINAL THOUGHTS
Months have passed since our unforgettable trip to the stunning Victoria Falls, yet the experience continues to linger in my mind. The stay at the Royal Livingstone on the Zambian side was truly magical. While we ventured to the Zimbabwean side by crossing the border, I am eager to return and stay on that side to rediscover the falls.
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