By Kim Barnett
There is no better time to get outdoors and enjoy the gorgeous scenery on offer in Livingstone than first thing in the morning. The positive energy and good vibes can set you up for seeing the rest of the day in a positive light. Don’t put exercise by the wayside because you are on holiday; start your day on the right foot.
At first glance, it might seem challenging to find locations in Livingstone that you can walk without fear of running into wildlife or getting lost in the wilderness. In actuality, there are some excellent walking trails on offer for leisurely strolls or more expert level hikes. Have a look at some options for where to go for an early morning walk in Livingstone, Zambia.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Zambia invented the modern walking safari. It is a well-known fact that Norman Carr was the first to focus on taking tourists on experiential photographic safaris on foot rather than tracking and hunting. As an avid conservationist, Norman Carr established the present-day South Luangwa National Park along with Senior Chief Nsefu.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park borders Livingstone town, the Zambezi River and farming land. This small park makes for an excellent introduction to walking safaris. Ask your accommodation or Livingstone-based travel agent about booking a morning walking safari in Mosi-oa-tunya National Park with a registered walking safari operator.
Ideally, set off wearing comfortable, closed shoes, neutral-coloured clothing and sun protection. Anyone from 12 years of age and up is welcome to join and may catch a glimpse or get up close to:
- White rhinos
- Elephant
- Zebra
- Impala
- Kudu
- Wildebeest
- Giraffe
- Bushbuck
- Warthogs
- Baboons
- Vervet Monkeys
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Buffalo
- And a variety of birdlife
Victoria Falls National Park
We can’t forget about the most iconic location to get out for a morning walk in Livingstone! The Victoria Falls National Park is open daily from 6 am-6 pm and is ideal for mixing your morning exercise with the most fabulous scenery on the planet.
All of the trails within Victoria Falls on the Zambian side are well-marked and easy to take at your own pace. If you would prefer a relaxed stroll to enjoy the views, then certainly bring your camera. However, if you are looking to break a sweat, then head down to the Boiling Pot trail, where you may also find a few locals using this paradise as an outdoor gym.
Please remember that during high water season, the water levels of Victoria Falls are so immense that everyone will be drenched with mist. So, dress appropriately to get wet and to ward off the sunshine. We also recommend bringing a water bottle, though avoid carrying food as baboons are known to be opportunistic.
Batoka Gorge
If you see the Victoria Falls from the air on a helicopter or microlight flight, you’ll notice the distinctive zig-zag formation downriver. The Batoka Gorge was formed over millions of years as the Zambezi River slowly carved through the basalt rock. In fact, this process is still happening, and there is evidence of where the subsequent falls are being carved from the Devil’s Cataract on the Zimbabwean side.
If you travel further downstream, you’ll find Taita Falcon Lodge perched atop the Batoka Gorge above Rapid 17. In addition to accommodation and fabulous food, they offer guided walks of the Batoka Gorge from one day to multiple days. Contact them in advance to make the arrangements and be prepared for a laborious hike. The views are well worth the effort.
Livingstone Town Walk
Livingstone is overflowing with history and culture. There are oodles of markets selling everything from wooden crafts and upcycled masterpieces to traditional medicine and local vegetables. It is highly recommended to spend a few hours exploring Livingstone’s central business district on foot. To get the best experience, consider booking a guided Livingstone town walk with a professional guide. Jollyboys Backpackers also offers free town walks for their guests every Wednesday. Here are some of the sites to note:
- Mukuni Craft Market
- Green Market
- Anglican Church
- Zimbabwe Market
- Capital Theatre
- Livingstone Museum
- Forest of Faces Sculpture Park
- Selfie Wall
- Railway Museum
- Jewish Museum
What are the benefits of an early morning walk in Livingstone, Zambia?
A morning walk in Livingstone, Zambia, has numerous mental and physical health benefits. To combat all of the divine food that you’ll be having on holiday, it can be a good idea to get out moving around. A morning walk in Livingstone can also:
- Beat the heat of the day
- Improve your sleep
- Be an energy booster
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Help with jetlag
- Reduce muscle and joint inflammation
- Feel more connected to the destination
- Discover unknown places
For more information about what to do while you are in Livingstone, check out the Destination Livingstone website and blog posts.
