Livingstone island Morning Breezer ( swim above the falls)

Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders, and if you’re craving a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Livingstone Island Morning Breezer offers just that. This tour combines breathtaking scenery, a touch of adventure, and a bit of history for a memorable day. We haven’t personally done it, but based on detailed reviews and tour info, this excursion stands out for its exclusivity, safety, and unique vantage points.

What we love about this experience: First, the chance to swim in Devil’s Pool, a natural rock formation right at the edge of the falls, is genuinely exhilarating. Second, the guided tour on Livingstone Island provides fascinating insights, from ancient sacrificial sites to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lastly, the inclusion of delicious breakfast or high tea adds a luxurious touch, elevating the entire outing.

A potential consideration is that access to Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island is seasonal, depending on water levels in the Zambezi River. During high water season, swimming might not be possible, so timing your visit is key. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, solo explorers, or couples looking for a distinctive experience in Zimbabwe.

Key Points

• Seasonal access to Devil’s Pool means swimming is only available during low water months.
• The guided tour offers rich historical and cultural insights about Livingstone Island.
• Safety is prioritized with professional guides and strict protocols, especially around the pool area.
• The tour includes breakfast or high tea, making it a luxurious, full-morning experience.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• The price of $167 offers good value considering the combination of adventure, education, and gourmet food.

What this Tour Entails: A Deep Dive

The Journey to Livingstone Island

Your morning starts early, with a pickup service (additional $30 per person round trip, depending on your location outside Victoria Falls or Livingstone town). From the moment you step onto the twin-engine boat, you’re in for a scenic ride through the Zambezi’s churning channels. This boat ride is a highlight itself; the guide’s commentary often includes insights about the river’s currents and surrounding wildlife, making it a lively prelude to the main event.

Arriving at Livingstone Island

Once on the island, you’ll join a guided tour that covers its fascinating past—from its use as a site for ancient sacrifices to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our sources highlight how guides, like those from Afro Dawn Safaris, are well-informed and passionate about sharing local stories, adding depth to the experience.

The Devil’s Pool Experience

The star of the show is, of course, the Devil’s Pool, a stunning natural infinity pool formed over millennia by erosion. When water levels are low (roughly late August to December), guests can swim just centimeters from the edge, with the roar of the falls behind you. One reviewer, Keith, mentioned that the thrill of meeting other solo travelers and the excitement of the pool made the trip unforgettable.

What makes Devil’s Pool truly extraordinary is its location on a rock ledge at the edge of Victoria Falls, offering a surreal feeling of swimming above one of Africa’s most famous waterfalls. Guides are vigilant, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and the experience is controlled and secure. Several travelers noted that guides go above and beyond to make sure everyone feels comfortable, especially when it’s their first time in such an adrenaline-pumping setting.

The Culinary Touches

After the swim, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch, or high tea, depending on your booked slot. Reviewers frequently praised the food, describing it as “very delicious” and “top notch,” which adds a surprising layer of luxury to what might seem like an adrenaline-fueled adventure. This meal is a great way to relax, take in the surroundings, and chat with fellow travelers.

Return Journey

Post-meal, a speedboat whisks you back to land, providing a different perspective of the Zambezi River and its scenery. The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect morning activity to complement other pursuits in the area.

Inclusion and Practical Details

The tour’s price of $167 per person covers the guided island tour, breakfast or high tea, and the boat transfer. It’s worth noting that transport from your hotel costs an additional $30 per person round trip if you’re outside Victoria Falls or Livingstone, so budget accordingly.

The tour operates daily with a start time of 7:30 am, and most travelers find the early start worthwhile to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos. Group sizes are limited to 16, maintaining intimacy and ensuring guided attention.

Accessibility and Booking Tips

Since access to Devil’s Pool is season-dependent, it’s essential to confirm water levels when booking. The tour guarantees a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if weather conditions or water levels don’t cooperate.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

Reviewers consistently describe the guides as professional and attentive. One noted, “Every person involved in this tour went above and beyond to ensure professional service, comfort, safety, and fun,” which speaks volumes about the overall quality. Many appreciated the delicious food—a surprising highlight for those expecting only adventure—and the chance to meet other travelers, making it a social and exciting outing.

Additional Highlights

• The history of Livingstone Island adds a meaningful layer, enriching the adventure beyond just the thrill.
• The view of Victoria Falls from Livingstone Island itself is unmatched, offering vistas you won’t find elsewhere.
• The small group size creates a more personal experience, and guides tend to be very knowledgeable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who aren’t afraid of a splash of adrenaline, history buffs interested in the region’s past, and foodies looking to enjoy a lavish breakfast amid spectacular scenery. The combination of scenic boat rides, historical insights, and the chance to swim above one of the world’s most famous waterfalls makes it a standout activity.

While the seasonality might limit access to Devil’s Pool, the overall package—guided exploration, gourmet meal, and stunning vistas—delivers exceptional value. It’s a unique, safe way to get close to the falls from a perspective few travelers ever see.

If you’re seeking a luxurious yet adventurous day with a mix of history, nature, and a splash of excitement, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to book well in advance, especially if visiting during peak low water season.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but good swimming ability and comfort with water are recommended for the Devil’s Pool experience. The tour is capped at 16 participants, so there’s plenty of space for questions and personalized guidance.

How far in advance should I book?
Since this tour is quite popular and booked on average 88 days ahead, it’s best to secure your spot early, especially during low water season when Devil’s Pool is accessible.

What is included in the tour price?
The $167 fee covers the guided tour of Livingstone Island, the swim in Devil’s Pool (if water levels permit), and a meal—either breakfast or high tea.

Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation to and from your hotel or accommodation outside Victoria Falls or Livingstone town costs an additional $30 per person round trip, confirmed with a minimum of 2 travelers.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera if you wish to take photos. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for boat rides and walking on uneven terrain.

What if weather or water levels prevent swimming?
The tour is seasonal; in high water months, swimming may not be possible. In such cases, you’ll still enjoy the guided tour and the scenic views, and the tour can be canceled with a full refund if you prefer.

Can I visit if I don’t want to swim?
Yes, the tour includes the island exploration and the boat ride, with the option to enjoy breakfast or high tea without participating in the swim.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance won’t be refunded.

The Livingstone Island Morning Breezer offers a compelling mix of adventure, history, and luxury, all set against one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring backdrops. The opportunity to swim above the falls combined with the insightful guided tour and gourmet breakfast creates a memorable experience for those seeking a special day in Victoria Falls.

It’s best suited for travelers looking to combine thrill and culture, with an appreciation for well-organized, intimate tours. While seasonal constraints mean it’s not available year-round, planning around the low water months can ensure you don’t miss out on this exclusive adventure.

For those wanting more than just sightseeing—desiring a visceral, memorable connection to Victoria Falls—this tour is a perfect pick. Just remember to book early, prepare for adventure, and get ready for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.