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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Zambia Lodges Map
Popular Zambia Safari Lodges

  • Kafunta River Lodge

    A renowned destination for a quintessential Luangwa and Zambian safari experience, Kafunta River Lodge stands elegantly perched, offering breathtaking views of a picturesque floodplain on the outskirts of the South Luangwa National Park.

    Situated in the heart of the "Valley of the Leopard," this lodge is expertly crafted for exhilarating game drives, catering to wildlife enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers seeking remarkable sightings and exceptional opportunities for photography amidst the unspoiled natural beauty of the region.

  • Kaingo Camp

    Welcome to the epitome of wilderness luxury and adventure - Kaingo Camp. Here, where the pulse of Africa beats strongest, we invite you to explore, experience, and become part of a story that unfolds daily amidst the untamed beauty of South Luangwa National Park.

    With intimate chalets, exceptional game viewing, and immersive safari activities, Kaingo Camp promises an adventure that will etch itself into your heart, forever altering the way you see the natural world.

  • Chinzombo Safari Camp

    Chinzombo Safari Camp presents a lavishly luxurious choice for discerning travellers seeking the ultimate safari experience in the breathtaking and wild South Luangwa National Park of Zambia.

    Guests at Chinzombo can indulge in exhilarating game drives, immersive walking safaris, and serene boat cruises (seasonal). These adventures are expertly guided by a team of accomplished and award-winning guides and trackers, ensuring an unforgettable and enriching wildlife encounter.

  • Potato Bush Camp

    Surrounded by the breathtaking landscape that Zambia is celebrated for, Potato Bush Camp guests are treated to a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. From exhilarating game drives and night safaris to peaceful canoe trips all within the Lower Zambezi National Park, Potato Bush Camp offers an intimate connection with the wild.

    The camp's commitment to providing a bespoke and unforgettable safari experience is evident in its meticulous attention to detail, from the gourmet dining experiences to the expertly guided tours.

  • Kakuli Bush Camp

    Kakuli Bush Camp stands out as one of the select few Zambian and South Luangwa National Park bush camps that welcome visitors during the months of January and November. During this period, the river reaches high levels, necessitating access by boat.

    The safari activities (walking safaris and game drives) offered revolve around exploring the river or the nearby dry, sandy terrains that encompass the camp, all while surrounded by exceptional wildlife and birdlife.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Fig Tree Bush Camp

    Fig Tree Bush Camp offers an intimate gateway to one of Africa's most serene wildlife sanctuaries, the famed Kafue National Park. With just four bespoke tented suites, we promise an unparalleled level of privacy and exclusivity, surrounded by the untouched beauty of one of the continent's most diverse ecosystems.

    Whether you're drawn by the thrill of game drives, the tranquillity of walking safaris, or the enchantment of campfire dinners under the stars, Fig Tree Bush Camp offers a sanctuary where the wonders of the wild envelop you, making every moment unforgettable.