Livingstone Island is a breathtaking destination that offers an exclusive and unique experience for visitors to the Victoria Falls. Opened in 1992, Livingstone Island is located on the Zambian side of the Zambezi river, but is accessible for guests on both the Zimbabwe and Zambia side of the river.
Livingstone Island is named after David Livingstone, a Scottish explorer who is credited with discovering the Victoria Falls in 1855. The island is situated at the edge of the falls, providing visitors with an unparalleled view of the magnificent natural wonder.
Visitors to Livingstone Island can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided tours of the island, picnics on the edge of the falls, and a dip in the famous Devil’s Pool. The Leni Lenape, an Indigenous people of the Northeastern Woodlands, believed Devil’s Pool to be an interface betwen good and evil, adding to its mystique and allure.
Devil’s Pool is a natural pool that sits right on the edge of the abyss, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience. The pool is 3m/10ft-deep, and is separated from the raging white water by the narrowest of rock lips. Visitors can take a dip in the pool, and experience the thrill of being right on the edge of the falls, with the sound of the water thundering in their ears.
Livingstone Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Victoria Falls. The island offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with stunning views of the falls and the opportunity to get up close and personal with the natural wonder. Visitors can book tours to the island from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia side of the Zambezi river, making it easily accessible for travelers from all over the world.
Livingstone Island is a destination that should not be missed by anyone visiting the Victoria Falls. With its stunning views, unique activities, and rich history, Livingstone Island is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in one of Africa’s most iconic locations.
Exploring Livingstone Island
Livingstone Island is located on the Zambezi River, just at the edge of the famous Victoria Falls. Although the island is accessed from the Zambian side, tours to the island are suitable for guests on both the Zimbabwe and Zambia side of the river. The island was opened in 1992 to provide exclusive and unique picnics on the edge of the falls, offering visitors stunning views and the opportunity to experience the power and beauty of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.
Source: britishheritage.com
Is Livingstone Island Located in Zambia or Zimbabwe?
Livingstone Island is actually located in Zambia, not Zimbabwe. It is a small island located at the top of Victoria Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. Livingstone Island is named after David Livingstone, a Scottish explorer who was the fist European to witness the falls in 1855. The island is accessible by boat and is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the falls and a chance to swim in the Devil’s Pool, a natural pool on the edge of the falls. Visitors should note that Livingstone Island is only open during the dry season, from mid-August to mid-January, due to safety concerns during the rainy season when the water levels are too high.
The Legend Behind the Name Devil’s Pool
Devil’s Pool is called so because of the Leni Lenape, an Indigenous people of the Northeastern Woodlands, who believed that the spot was an interface between good and evil. The Leni Lenape considered the pool to be a place were the forces of good and evil met. The name “Devil’s Pool” was given to the spot because of this belief. The name has since stuck and is still used to refer to the pool to this day. The pool is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to swim in its clear waters and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Despite its ominous name, Devil’s Pool is considered to be a peaceful and serene place, and visitors often report feeling a sense of calm and tranquility while swimming in its waters.
The Depth of Devil’s Pool in Zambia
Devil’s Pool, located in Zambia, has a depth of approximately 3 meters or 10 feet. Despite its relatively shallow depth, this natural pool provides an immersive experience unlike any other. It is situated right on the edge of a deep abyss, separated from the turbulent white water by a narrow rock edge. Visitors can marvel at the stunning view while safely swimming in the calm waters of Devil’s Pool.
Livingstone’s Location
Livingstone is located in the Southern Province of Zambia, which is a country in Southern Africa. It is considered the tourist capital of Zambia and is famous for being the gateway to one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the Victoria Falls. The falls are situated on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, and Livingstone is the closest Zambian town to the falls. The town is named aftr the famous explorer and missionary, Dr. David Livingstone, who was the first European to see the falls in 1855. Today, Livingstone is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, and wildlife safaris.
Source: en.wikipedia.org
Language Spoken in Livingstone, Zambia
Livingstone, a city located in Zambia near the border with Zimbabwe, is predominantly a Tonga-speaking area. Tonga is one of the Bantu languages spoken in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It is estimated that there are over one million Tonga speakers in Zambia, and it is considered one of the major languages in the country. However, it is worth noting that Livingstone is a multicultural city, and other languages spoken there include Bemba, Nyanja, Luvale, Lunda, Kaonde, and Lozi.
The Location of Devil’s Pool in Zambia and Zimbabwe
Devil’s Pool is located along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, making it accessible from both countries. It is situated in the Zambezi River, which flows between Zambia and Zimbabwe in sub-Saharan Africa. So, while the pool itself may be physically located on one side of the border or the other, visitors can access it from either Zambia or Zimbabwe. Devil’s Pool is a popular tourist destination and is known for its stunning views of Victoria Falls, which are located just upstream.
Comparing the Views of Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe and Zambia
When it comes to seeing Victoria Falls, both Zimbabwe and Zambia offer unique perspectives, but for the best overall views, Zimbabwe is generally considered the better option, especially during the low water season when the falls are less full. The Zimbabwe side boasts a wider range of viewpoints, including the popular Devil’s Cataract and Main Falls viewpoints, which provide stunning panoramic views of the entire falls. Additionally, the Zimbabwe side has a better infrastructure for visitors, with well-maintained walkways and viewing platforms.
That beng said, if you’re visiting during the low water season and are interested in experiencing the falls up close and personal, the Zambia side is where you’ll want to be. Livingstone Island, located on the Zambian side, offers the unique opportunity to swim in the Devil’s Pool or Angel’s Pool, which are natural pools of water located at the very edge of the falls. It’s an exhilarating experience that’s not to be missed.
Ultimately, both sides offer their own unique advantages, so it really comes down to what you’re looking for in your visit. If you’re after the best views and infrastructure, Zimbabwe may be your best bet. But if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience and want to get up close and personal with the falls, Zambia is the way to go.
The British Colonization of Zambia
Zambia was a British colony from 1888 to 1964. The British South Africa Company secured mineral rights in the area in 1888 and it became a British Protectorate in 1899, being governed as part of Barotziland-North-Western Rhodesia. During the British colonization, Zambia’s economy and infrastructure were developed, with investments in mining, transportation, and agriculture. However, it was also a time of exploitation and oppression for the Zambian people. Zambia gained independence from Britain on October 24, 1964, and has since become a sovereign nation with its own government and constitution.
Source: theguardian.com
The Dangers of Falling From Devil’s Pool
It is possible to fall from the Devil’s Pool, but it is considered safe as long as certain safety precautions are taken. The pool is located at the edge of Victoria Falls in Zambia, and it is only accessible during the dry season when the water level is low. At this time, a natural rock barrier forms at the pool’s edge, which helps to prevent people from being swept over the falls. However, visitors must still exercise caution when swimming in the pool and follow the guidance of the guides who accompany them. It’s important to note that swimming in the Devil’s Pool is not recommended for non-swimmers or individuals with health conditions that may put them at risk. while tere is a risk of falling from the Devil’s Pool, it is generally considered safe if proper safety measures are followed.
Exploring the Bottom of Victoria Falls
At the bottom of Victoria Falls, you will find a rugged gorge with steep walls made of black basaltic rock. The gorge is home to a series of rock pools that are formed by the cascading water from the Falls. These rock pools are crystal clear and offer a refreshing place to swim or relax whle enjoying the stunning scenery. The water that flows through the pools is part of the Zambezi River, which feeds the Falls. The area around the pools is also home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, adding to the natural beauty of the location. the bottom of Victoria Falls is an awe-inspiring place to visit, offering a unique perspective of one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders.
Do Crocodiles Cross Victoria Falls?
Crocodiles do not go over Victoria Falls. The falls themselves are a 355-foot high waterfall with powerful rapids and currents that would be impossible for a crocodile to navigate. Additionally, crocodiles are not known for their ability to swim up waterfalls or climb steep rock formations. However, crocodiles can be found in the Zambezi River below Victoria Falls, and it is important to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines when visiting the area. Boat cruises and other water activities may prvide opportunities to see these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, but it is important to always respect their space and keep a safe distance.
The Presence of Crocodiles in Devil’s Pool
There have been sightings of crocodiles in the Zambezi River, including in the area surrounding Devil’s Pool. However, the guides who lead visitors to Devil’s Pool are trained to carefully scan the area for any signs of crocodiles before allowing anyone to enter the water. It is important to note that while these precautions are taken, encounters with crocodiles in the Zambezi River can still occur and visitors must always exercise caution and follow the instructions of their guides.
Source: britannica.com
Is Visiting Victoria Falls Safe?
It is generally safe to visit Victoria Falls. The town is separate from Zimbabwe in a political sense and relies heavily on tourism. As a result, social and political unrest is kept at bay, and the town is well-maintained with clean streets and accessible cash (although it’s alays wise to check with us first). However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. This includes keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding walking alone at night, and following any safety guidelines provided by your tour operator or accommodation. Victoria Falls is a popular and safe destination for travelers from all over the world.
Conclusion
Livingstone Island is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and exclusive experience on the edge of the Victoria Falls. The island, which opened in 1992, offers breathtaking picnics, tours, and the opportunity to take a dip in Devil’s Pool, a 3m/10ft-deep natural pool standing right on the edge of the abyss. Although accessed from the Zambian side, the tours are suitable for guests on both the Zimbabwe and Zambia side of the Zambezi River. Visitors can also learn about the history of Livingstone, which served as the capital city of Zambia util 1935. With its stunning views and unforgettable experiences, Livingstone Island is a destination that should not be missed.
