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

  • Mukambi Safari Lodge

    Experience the enchanting wilderness of Zambia at Mukambi Safari Lodge, your gateway to the majestic Kafue National Park. Nestled along the vibrant banks of the Kafue River, Mukambi serves as the ideal outpost for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in Africa's untamed beauty.

    Whether it's the thrill of a game drive, the tranquillity of a sunset boat cruise, or the intimacy of an open-air bath under the stars, Mukambi Safari Lodge promises an unparalleled safari adventure when visiting the famed Kafue In Zambia.

  • Busanga Plains Camp

    Nestled in the expansive wilderness of the Kafue National Park, Busanga Plains Camp offers a quintessential African safari experience. This exclusive camp, limited to just four luxurious tents, promises an intimate encounter with some of Africa's most spectacular wildlife and landscapes.

    Set against the backdrop of the vast Busanga Plains, a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike awaits. With its unique blend of comfort and wilderness, Busanga Plains Camp invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of one of Africa's last great wilderness areas.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • David Livingstone Safari Lodge

    The David Livingstone Safari Lodge, situated on the Zambezi River, envelops guests in natural luxury. With Victoria Falls as its backdrop, the hotel offers an intimate connection to nature. Lush greenery surrounds the lodge, allowing guests to fully embrace the beauty of Africa.

    Accommodation at The David Livingstone ranges from opulent river-view rooms to exclusive treetop suites. Each room combines modern amenities with traditional African design, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay for all guests.

  • 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.

  • 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.