Situated on the banks of the Zambezi river, very close to the Victoria Falls, is one of the natural wonders of the world: The Royal Livingstone. This Sun International hotel is one of those places everyone dreams of when thinking about Africa. It is a luxurious five star hotel consisting of 17 colonial-style buildings and 173 rooms with an elegant combination of sophistication and colonial luxury, evoking images of being sent back in time to the early 19th century.
Everything about this hotel is unique: from the butler service for each one of its rooms, the quarters where the most distinguished members of the world’s royal families have been guests, to the water taxi service from the airport.
The wooden sun deck over the Zambezi river is a wonderful space to drink a fruit cocktail or champagne while observing the spray of the waterfalls. You can have dinner at the Monkey Tree, a magical place along the riverside with a single table available for a romantic evening. After that, you can take a night-time walk contemplating and marvelling at the Acacia forest around the resort.
Another evening option is the Marumba dinner complete with traditional Zambian dances as entertainment. You could also enjoy dinner on board the Royal Livingstone Express, a steam train from the beginning of the 20th century. This recently restored vehicle makes its way through the Zambezi valley between Livingstone and Simonga, passing by part of the Mulebezi railway inaugurated by Dr Livingstone back in the day. On the train you can sample an appetiser followed by a five course dinner that includes international cuisine with a local touch.
In the mornings visit the colourful rose gardens or enjoy an elephant-back safari; fly over the Victoria Falls in helicopter or relax with an aromatherapy massage in the Zambezi riverside gazebo. Or there's the more traditional Ukuchina massage, a technique that originated in central Africa, ideal for rejuvenating your body. And why not treat yourself to the Lwindii ceremony, a complete head-to-toe ritual with several relaxation techniques, including a milk bath.
At dusk, there is nothing like ending your day enjoying a river cruise on board the African Queen. It's a peaceful refuge that recreates the exclusive ambience of a bygone era, combining the essence of romance with a touch of adventure.More information : The Royal Livingstone
