Livingstone Island

Our review of the Livingstone Island tour offers a detailed look into one of Zambia’s most iconic experiences. This two-hour excursion promises a chance to swim in Devils Pool right at the edge of the world-famous Victoria Falls, with options for breakfast, lunch, or high tea. Priced at $210 per person, it’s an experience that balances thrill, natural beauty, and a touch of luxury, all within a small-group setting.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how it combines stunning scenery with the intimacy of a small group, ensuring personalized attention from guides and a more relaxed vibe. The pickup service adds to convenience, especially if your hotel is on the included list. However, it’s worth noting that the tour books 36 days in advance, so planning ahead is essential to secure your spot.

Ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those craving a unique experience at one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls, this tour offers a perfect blend of adrenaline and tranquility. But, as with all adventures, it has its considerations—such as the importance of following safety instructions and the necessity of booking early to avoid disappointment.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized guides and better safety.
• Stunning views of Victoria Falls and the thrill of swimming at its edge.
• Multiple meal options enhance the experience, whether breakfast, lunch, or high tea.
• Pre-booking is strongly recommended, with 36 days as the average lead time.
• Pickup service simplifies logistics, especially for hotel guests on the included list.
• Safety is emphasized, with guides showing the best spots and ensuring a secure experience.

What Makes Livingstone Island Unique?

This tour is not just about the adrenaline rush of swimming near a waterfall—it’s about the panoramic vistas and the sense of adventure that comes with being so close to one of the planet’s most renowned natural wonders. The Devils Pool itself is a natural formation, caused by erosion, creating a deep pool perched right at the waterfall’s edge. It’s an experience that’s both exhilarating and humbling, giving you a rare perspective of Victoria Falls’ might.

The small-group nature of this tour means you’re not lost in a crowd. Instead, you get the chance to bond with fellow thrill-seekers, share photos, and soak up the environment without feeling rushed. Many reviewers have highlighted how well the staff and guides manage safety while maintaining a friendly and professional atmosphere, which is critical on such a daring adventure.

The Itinerary: How the Two Hours Unfold

Stop 1: Devils Pool

The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to swim in Devils Pool, perched on the edge of Victoria Falls. Your guide will show you the best spots for swimming, ensuring you get the most out of this unique experience. Expect to spend around an hour at the pool, where the adrenaline of being so close to the falls is balanced by the tranquility of the water.

Reviewers like Polonca_S appreciated the responsiveness of the team, especially after initial difficulties in booking through other channels. The guides are praised for their competence in photo and video shooting, making sure you leave with keepsakes of the adventure—often better than what you could do with your own phone.

Transport and Logistics

The tour typically includes pickup and drop-off, which is a significant advantage for hotel guests, especially when crossing borders or navigating the often confusing transport options in the region. One reviewer, Gagi_L, highlighted how the border crossing support was particularly helpful, ensuring the entire process went smoothly.

The duration of around two hours means you get plenty of time at the pool, but the overall experience is brisk enough to keep you feeling energetic and eager for the next adventure. Keep in mind that most travelers book this experience 36 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity and the necessity of early planning.

Safety and Group Size

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour offers an intimate setting where guides can provide personalized safety instructions. Many reviews reinforce that safety is a top priority, with guides showing the best and safest spots to swim, and support staff making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Some reviews, like Lisa_G’s, mention instances where guides were more pushy than expected. This underscores the importance of communicating your comfort level clearly and choosing a tour operator that respects personal boundaries. Shepherd Taxi and Tours, the provider, respond to such incidents with professionalism, emphasizing their commitment to service quality.

Food and Beverage Options

The tour’s meal options add a luxurious touch—whether you opt for breakfast, lunch, or high tea. Many guests have raved about the food, calling it delicious and of high quality, adding a soothing complement to the daring activity. Some reviewers noted that guides even help with photo shoots during meals, making the most of the scenic backdrop.

Pricing and Value

At $210, this tour might seem steep at first glance, but considering the exclusive experience of swimming at the edge of Victoria Falls, it offers excellent value. Many guests felt they received more than their money’s worth, especially given the professional guidance, stunning scenery, and photos they took home.

For travelers who prioritize authenticity and safety over sheer price, this experience delivers a memorable, well-organized adventure that’s hard to match elsewhere. The inclusion of pickup, the small group size, and the quality of food all add to the overall package.

The Guides and Their Impact

One of the most praised aspects across reviews is the knowledgeable guides. They’re not only experienced in safety but also eager to capture your moments with photos or videos—sometimes with surprisingly skillful results using just an iPhone. Their supportiveness and friendly demeanor make the experience even more enjoyable, especially for those new to this kind of adventure.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Book early—ideally 36 days in advance—since spots are limited.
• Confirm if your hotel qualifies for pickup and drop-off.
• Follow safety instructions carefully, especially if you’re nervous about swimming near the edge.
• Consider the meal options—breakfast, lunch, or high tea—based on your schedule.
• Bring a camera or smartphone; guides excel at helping you get great shots.
• If you’re crossing borders, clarify meeting points and border procedures beforehand, as some reviews noted slight confusion about the exact meeting location.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Livingstone Island tour offers a rare mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and personalized service. For those eager to stand at the very edge of one of the world’s most famous waterfalls and feel the roaring water close by—this experience hits the mark. The small group format, attentive guides, and quality meals ensure you’re comfortable and well-cared-for during this adrenaline-filled outing.

While it’s an investment and requires some planning, the photo opportunities and thrill of swimming at the edge of Victoria Falls make it a worthy splurge. If you’re looking for a bucket-list adventure that combines natural grandeur with a touch of luxury, this tour is a compelling choice.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value personal safety, enjoy small-group intimacy, and are ready for a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. With its great reviews, professional guides, and unforgettable scenery, it’s a remarkable way to connect with the raw power of Victoria Falls.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered, especially if your hotel is on the included list, making transportation straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately two hours, providing enough time at the pool and for photos without feeling rushed.

Can I choose my meal option?
Yes, you can select from breakfast, lunch, or high tea options, which are served during or after the swim at the island.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and attentive guides.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Many reviews mention the availability of a smaller, safer pool that’s perfect for non-swimmers, offering the same thrill in a more secure environment.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides will show you the best swimming spots and provide safety instructions, with safety being a top priority, as reflected in the positive reviews.

In essence, this tour combines the thrill of Victoria Falls with excellent organization, stunning views, and a touch of luxury. Perfect for travelers seeking a memorable adventure, it offers a blend of excitement and comfort that’s hard to beat.