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

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Popular Zambia Safari Lodges

  • Avani Victoria Falls Resort

    At The Avani Resort, enjoy the best view of Victoria Falls. This 3-star hotel, The Avani Victoria Falls Resort, boasts adobe-style architecture and exceptional river views. Situated within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and just a short walk from Victoria Falls.

    The resort features simple finishes with bright mosaics and fabrics, ethnic wall stencils, Zambian artworks, and timber and plaster ceilings. It consists of eight buildings housing guest rooms, restaurants, and a convention centre. The hotel stands out in the evening against the smoky vapour above.

  • Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

    Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of Livingstone, Zambia, Waterberry Zambezi Lodge offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of the wilderness. Wake up to the Zambezi River's gentle sounds and end your day with a breathtaking sunset.

    With meticulously designed cottages and immersive experiences, every moment invites you to discover Zambia's natural beauty. Whether you seek adventure at Victoria Falls or birdwatching, Waterberry promises an unforgettable African and Zambian safari escape.

  • Mfuwe Lodge

    Mfuwe Lodge is a captivating retreat in the wilderness of the South Luangwa National Park. Here, adventure meets tranquillity, and nature's wonders are your daily backdrop. With its thatched chalets nestled amidst a verdant forest canopy, Mfuwe invites you to immerse yourself in Africa's raw beauty.

    Whether you're seeking thrilling game drives through the vast savannah, serene moments by the peaceful lagoon, or wish to witness the majestic and unique elephant procession at sunset, your stay at the safari lodge promises to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Tena Tena Camp

    Tena Tena Camp, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, has established itself as a beloved African home-away-from-home for safari and bush walking adventurers from around the globe.

    The phrase "Tena Tena" holds a special meaning, translating to "temporary home" in the local dialect. This exclusive camp offers an unparalleled safari experience, where guests find their own piece of paradise amidst the wilderness, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.

  • Shumba Camp

    Shumba Camp offers travellers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty and diversity of African wildlife. Whether it's the thrill of a game drive, the tranquillity of bird watching, or the unique experience of a walking safari, Shumba Camp promises an unforgettable sojourn into the wild.

    Here, amidst the raw and majestic landscapes of the Kafue National Park, every moment becomes a cherished memory, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

  • Thorntree River Lodge

    Thorntree River Lodge is a luxury river lodge located near the Livingstone Area on the Zambezi River. With 10 suites, it offers a recommended stay of 2-5 nights. Highlights include luxury safari suites with private plunge pools, proximity to Victoria Falls, and engaging staff.

    Guests can enjoy birdlife, spa treatments, sunset cruises, and fine dining with African-inspired cuisine. The lodge's design blends modernity with local culture, providing uninterrupted views of the Zambezi River. Ideal for a luxury safari experience in Zambia.

  • Nsefu Camp

    Nestled by the tranquil Luangwa River, Nsefu Camp stands as the historic gateway to Zambian tourism. This picturesque location is set in the untouched expanse of the South Luangwa National Park, where nature's wonders unfold in abundance.

    The sanctuary thrives with a rich tapestry of wildlife, painting a vibrant scene hidden from curious gazes. Immerse yourself in the exclusive experience of game viewing and safaris here, where every moment unveils the true essence of the African wilderness.

  • Chichele Presidential Lodge

    Nestled in the breathtaking South Luangwa region of Zambia, Chichele Presidential Lodge offers the perfect blend of luxury, wilderness, and adventure. Originally built as a presidential retreat, the lodge boasts an elevated location with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and floodplains.

    This unique vantage point provides guests with remarkable opportunities to witness wildlife in its natural habitat, all from the comfort of a tranquil and elegant setting. With its colonial charm, impeccable service, and proximity to one of Africa's most iconic national parks, Chichele Presidential Lodge promises an unforgettable safari experience.