Celebrating David Livingstone In Zambia

David Livingstone was born in Blantyre, Scotland 200 years ago. He remains the most celebrated of all Victorian explorers, equally known for his humanity and humanitarian work as for his feats of exceptional exploration. All the countries that he explored and traversed are celebrating this year and in the first of three articles, we look at Zambia.

His motivation as an explorer was the abolition of the African slave trade and important to achieving this aim was to navigate the Zambezi River and discover the source of the Nile making these arteries a Christian highway into the interior of Africa. Part of his success as an explorer lay in the fact that he travelled comparatively lightly with only a small retinue of porters and servants and with an absence of soldiers or armed guards. He was consequently not seen as a threat by most chiefs and villages he passed through nor mistaken as a slave trader.

Over several expeditions and journeys, he explored and mapped for western civilisation large regions which had previously been blank. As well as the Victoria Falls, the upper Zambezi River and some of the Congo river basin, he explored Lakes Banweulu, Malawi and Ngami and some of lakes Mweru and Tanganyika.

David Livingstone died in Ilala southeast of Lake Bangweulu in present-day Zambia on 1 May 1873 from malaria. His heart was buried there under a mpundu tree by his loyal servants before they departed for the coast carrying his body. The Livingstone Memorial was built in 1902 and this brick and plaster obelisk topped by a bronze cross can be visited. The visit can be incorporated with a safari to the nearby Kasanka National Park. His body lay in repose before burial in Westminster Abbey, at 1 Savile Row, then the headquarters of the Royal Geographical Society and now the home of Gieves and Hawkes which can also be visited for all your tailoring needs!

David Livingstone viewed the Victoria Falls (which he named) from what is now Livingstone Island ( a great picnic and lunching spot!) near the Zambian town of Livingstone. It is this town which is most closely associated with the celebrations and we give below a calendar of events. This is not an exhaustive list and there are many more sporting events which are planned during the course of the year which our consultants will be happy to indicate to you:

19-21 April 2013
International Academic Conference in Livingstone Zambia – Imperial Obsessions David Livingstone, Africa and world history: a life and legacy reconsidered. Jointly hosted jointly by The London School of Economics, UK; The Livingstone Museum, Zambia and The David Livingstone Bicentenary, Livingstone

1 May 2013
Livingstone Memorial Day
David Livingstone died in Zambia on 1 May 1873, after spending half his life exploring the African continent.

19-21 April 2013
International Academic Conference in Livingstone Zambia – Imperial Obsessions David Livingstone, Africa and world history: a life and legacy reconsidered. Jointly hosted jointly by The London School of Economics, UK; The Livingstone Museum, Zambia and The David Livingstone Bicentenary, Livingstone

1 May 2013
Livingstone Memorial Day
David Livingstone died in Zambia on 1 May 1873, after spending half his life exploring the African continent.
4 May 2013
David Livingstone Bicentenary Golf Tournament.

7-9 June 2013
International Cultural Festival and Carnival
Neighbouring countries through which Livingstone travelled will be invited to participate in this fun, vibrant, colourful international part of the bicentenary celebrations. Street carnival, national stands, food and lots more.

16 November 2013
Grand Finale
River events, and memorial on Livingstone Island. This is the date that Dr Livingstone first viewed the Falls, from Livingstone Island.

Celebrating David Livingstone in Zambia

Travel To Zambia Now
Zambia Lodges Map
Popular Zambia Safari Lodges

  • Sungani Lodge

    Sungani Lodge, a pristine haven located in the heart of the Luangwa Valley. This unique safari lodge not only offers an intimate connection with nature but also an unrivaled luxury experience amidst one of Africa's most magnificent wilderness areas.

    With its exclusive Tented Suites, Sungani Lodge provides a serene and personalized getaway perfect for those yearning to explore the wild depths of Zambia. From thrilling game drives to mesmerizing sunrises over the lagoon, every moment spent here promises to be unforgettable.

  • Amanzi Camp

    Amanzi Camp, a haven of exclusivity nestled in the stunning wilderness of the Lower Zambezi National Park, invites you to indulge in an extraordinary safari adventure. This secluded gem, with its intimate encounter with the African wilderness, is designed exclusively for those who seek a serene retreat, offering a unique and privileged experience.

    From heart-pounding game drives to tranquil canoe excursions, Amanzi is a sanctuary where the thrill of the natural world is matched only by the quality of hospitality and service. Each activity is designed to ignite your sense of adventure and leave you with unforgettable memories.

  • Chongwe River House

    Discover the epitome of wilderness luxury at Chongwe River House, an enchanting haven nestled in the heart of Zambia's Lower Zambezi Valley and Escarpment. Crafted with an innovative design that harmonises with nature, this premier safari villa promises an exclusive escape into the wild.

    Tailored for those who seek an intimate connection with nature without compromising on luxury, River House is your secluded sanctuary for an unforgettable Lower Zambezi National Park safari for a family or small group of friends.

  • Big Lagoon Trails Camp

    Discover the hidden paradise of Big Lagoon Trails Camp, nestled in the vibrant heart of South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. It's where Africa’s wild heart dances in perfect harmony with the tranquil beauty of nature, offering you a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife and wilderness adventure.

    At Big Lagoon Trails Camp, the rustic allure of safari comes alive with a touch of exclusive rustic charm, providing a haven for adventurers eager to dive into one of Zambia’s most celebrated wildlife havens.

  • Mwaleshi Camp

    Nestled in the heart of Zambia's pristine North Luangwa National Park, Mwaleshi Camp offers an escape into one of Africa's last great wilderness areas. With its intimate setting and unmatched proximity to nature, this camp provides an extraordinary adventure for those seeking to explore the unspoiled landscapes and rich wildlife of Zambia.

    It's an invitation to step off the beaten path and immerse oneself in an experience that promises not just sightings but interactions with the natural world in ways few other destinations can offer.

  • Royal Zambezi Lodge

    Nestled on the banks of the magnificent Zambezi River, the Lower Zambezi National Park lodge has been transformed into a breathtaking 5-star luxury haven. With its panoramic views of the sprawling river and the Mana Pools Reserve, teeming with wildlife and framed by stunning landscapes, this lodge offers an unparalleled experience.

    From the sumptuous accommodation options to the exceptional service, every moment at the Royal Zambezi River Lodge is designed to surpass expectations, making it an undisputed jewel in the wilderness.

  • Kafunta Three Rivers Camp

    Kafunta Three Rivers Camp is nestled at the confluence of "three rivers" in the South Luangwa region of Zambia. These rivers, namely the Luangwa, Kapamba, and Lusangazi, create a serene and picturesque setting for this small and distinctive safari camp.

    Guests at Three Rivers Camp can expect unparalleled opportunities for wildlife and birdlife sightings, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Explore the wonders of the African bush in this unique and tranquil oasis.

  • Nkwali Camp

    Nkwali Camp has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that guests are always surrounded by breathtaking views - from the lush bush to the serene river. South Luangwa is renowned for its game viewing, set against a backdrop of stunning ebony woodland and expansive grasslands teeming with wildlife.

    Visitors can witness the majestic sight of elephants gracefully crossing the Luangwa River, visible from the cozy bar area, or observe them gathering near the enchanting waterhole adjacent to the charming thatched dining room.