Livingstone Island, Natural islet in Zambezi River, Livingstone District, Zambia
Livingstone Island is a small island in the Zambezi River positioned at the edge of Victoria Falls, offering direct views of the waterfall dropping about 108 meters into the gorge below. The island is surrounded by steep rock walls and mist, which create an intense experience of the water's power with every visit.
David Livingstone observed the waterfall from this island in 1855, documenting the natural formation for European scientific records. His exploration brought the place to the attention of the wider world.
Local communities view the island as spiritually significant, using it for traditional ceremonies and rituals tied to the river. When you walk around, you can feel how deeply the water connects to the lives of people living here.
Access to the island is only by guided boat tours from the mainland, with visits restricted to specific times when water levels are lower. Bring clothes that can get wet, as the journey to and around the island involves splashing water.
Between September and December, the Devil's Pool forms at the island's edge, creating a natural basin that sits like an infinity pool above the waterfall's drop. Swimming in this pool becomes possible when water conditions are safe.
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