Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Sunset Cruise

Start your adventure to Victoria Falls by flying into either Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe or Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia. Settle into your accommodation, then kick off your trip with a sunset cruise on the majestic Zambei River. Boat operators typically offer pickups from local hotels. As you glide along the river, keep your eyes peeled for hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. This relaxing introduction to the area is perfect for all ages, offering snacks and stunning views of the sunset over the river.

Day 2: Touring the Falls

After breakfast, head to the Victoria Falls National Park. The entrance is easily accessible by taxi or shuttle from surrounding hotels. Guided tours are available, which can enhance the experience with insights into the falls" geology and history, such as the fact that the falls were named by explorer David Livingstone in honor of Queen Victoria, but are locally known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” — the smoke that thunders.

Explore the various viewing points to see the falls from different perspectives. Don"t miss the Devil’s Pool (during dry season) and the Boiling Pot hike, which both offer unique views and thrilling experiences. Raincoats are advisable as the spray from the falls can drench visitors!

Day 3: Cultural Experience and Leisure

Visit the Maramba Cultural Museum in Livingstone, Zambia, to learn about local history and culture. Activities often include traditional dance performances and craft demonstrations — great for kids to get an interactive experience.

In the afternoon, relax at your hotel or explore local markets for souvenirs. The Elephant’s Walk Shopping and Artist Village in Victoria Falls town is a fantastic place to buy locally made crafts and see artists at work.

This itinerary balances relaxation with adventure and education, making for an unforgettable family trip to one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Devil"s Pool

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to Devil"s Pool, a natural wonder located at the edge of Victoria Falls, on the Zambia side. Perfect for families seeking a mix of thrill and nature, this trip promises unforgettable memories.

### Itinerary Overview:

- Location: Devil"s Pool, Victoria Falls, Livingstone, Zambia

- Best Time to Visit: Mid-August to Mid-January, when water levels are safe for swimming.

### Day 1: Arrival in Livingstone

Fly into Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport and check into a family-friendly hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant local markets in Livingstone.

### Day 2: Journey to Devil"s Pool

- Morning: Start early with a hearty breakfast before heading out. Book a guided tour through a reputable local operator, which typically includes a short, scenic boat ride to Livingstone Island right at the brink of Victoria Falls.

- Interesting Fact: Victoria Falls, named by David Livingstone in honor of Queen Victoria, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and almost twice as high as North America’s Niagara Falls.

### Day 3: Experience Devil"s Pool

- Safety First: After a safety briefing, follow your guide on a brief swim across a small section of the river, assisted by natural rock barriers and calm waters.

- Thrills at the Pool: Experience the thrill of swimming in Devil"s Pool, watching the waters of the Zambezi crash over the cliffs just meters away. It"s safe and exhilarating, with guides ensuring everyone’s safety.

- Interesting Fact: Devil’s Pool is a natural rock pool on the edge of the Victoria Falls, created by thousands of years of erosion.

### Day 4: Explore More & Departure

- Morning: Visit the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for wildlife viewing or a relaxing Zambezi River cruise.

- Afternoon: Depart for the airport after an unforgettable family adventure.

This itinerary combines natural wonders, safety, and fun, making it ideal for a family trip that balances adventure with relaxation.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Victoria Falls

Begin your adventure at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, located in Livingstone, Zambia. Easily accessible from Livingstone Airport, the park is a short 15-minute drive. Start by exploring the stunning Victoria Falls, known locally as "The Smoke That Thunders." This is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world. Enjoy a guided tour which offers educational insights into the local flora and fauna. Don’t forget your raincoat, as the mist from the falls can soak you through!

Day 2: Wildlife Safari and Cultural Village Visit

Start your morning with a thrilling safari. The park is home to white rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. Guided tours in 4x4 vehicles provide safe and close encounters with these magnificent creatures, perfect for capturing memorable family photos. In the afternoon, visit a nearby cultural village. Here, you and your family can learn about the traditions and lifestyle of the local Toka Leya people, enhancing your understanding of Zambia"s rich cultural heritage.

Day 3: Zambezi River Cruise and Fishing

Conclude your visit with a relaxing cruise on the Zambezi River. This gentle ride offers a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat. For families who enjoy fishing, you can also partake in a catch-and-release fishing excursion. It’s a peaceful way to end your exciting trip, engaging with nature at a leisurely pace.

Each activity ensures you’re not just a spectator but an active participant in the vibrant ecosystem and culture surrounding Mosi-oa-Tunya. Don"t forget to check park hours and book your tours in advance to ensure a seamless experience!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Lower Zambezi National Park

Day 1: Arrival in Lusaka and Transfer to Lower Zambezi

- Start your adventure by flying into Lusaka, Zambia’s capital. From here, opt for a short domestic flight to Jeki Airstrip, which is the quickest route into the heart of the park, offering beautiful aerial views of the Zambezi River. Alternatively, embark on a scenic drive (about 4-5 hours) through the picturesque Zambian countryside to the park.

Day 2: Canoe Safari and Village Visit

- After breakfast, glide through the tranquil waters on a canoe safari. This gentle activity is perfect for families, allowing you to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a multitude of bird species from a safe distance. The slow pace and low angle provide a unique perspective of the river and its wildlife.

- In the afternoon, visit a local village where families can engage with the community, learn about traditional Zambian lifestyles, and enjoy cultural exchanges that enrich both children and adults. It"s a wonderful way to gain insight into the local culture and support community-based tourism.

Day 3: Game Drive and Fishing Excursion

- Embark on an early morning game drive. Lower Zambezi National Park is known for its elephant herds, as well as buffalo, lions, and the elusive leopard. The park"s guides are skilled at engaging young explorers with fascinating wildlife facts and bush lore.

- In the afternoon, try your hand at catch-and-release fishing. The Zambezi River is renowned for tiger fishing, and even young children will enjoy the thrill of catching their first fish with the help of experienced guides.

Day 4: Walking Safari and Departure

- Before heading back to Lusaka, join a guided walking safari. It’s a safe and exciting way to experience the African bush up close. Learn about the smaller flora and fauna often missed on vehicle rides.

- Conclude your trip with a transfer back to Lusaka for your onward journey, filled with memorable experiences from the majestic Lower Zambezi National Park.

This itinerary ensures a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, tailored to suit families seeking an enriching and engaging holiday.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Livingstone Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through Zambia"s rich heritage with a family-friendly visit to the Livingstone Museum, the oldest and largest museum in Zambia. Located conveniently in the heart of Living Cstone city, the museum is easily accessible by local taxis or buses from any part of the city.

Morning Exploration (9 AM - 12 PM)

Begin your day at the Livingstone Museum, which opens at 9 AM. Start with the archaeology gallery where kids and adults alike can marvel at the ancient artifacts from prehistoric sites in Zambia. Don"t miss the replica of a Kabwe skull, which provides a glimpse into early human life.

Interactive Learning (12 PM - 2 PM)

Post-lunch, dive into the Ethnography and Art gallery. This section showcases the diverse cultures of Zambia through traditional musical instruments, which children can enjoy looking at and even trying out some interactive displays, if available. There"s also an impressive collection of beadwork and ceremonial masks that illustrate the vibrant cultural heritage of the Zambian people.

Afternoon Adventure (2 PM - 4 PM)

Conclude your visit in the History and Natural History galleries. Kids will be fascinated by the taxidermy displays of Zambia’s wildlife, offering a safe and close-up view of animals they might see on a safari. The history gallery also includes personal belongings of David Livingstone, the city"s namesake, providing a narrative on his exploration of Africa.

Practical Tips

- The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, making it a flexible option for any day of your trip.

- Bring a camera, as photography without flash is allowed inside.

- There’s a small cafe onsite for refreshments or pack your own snacks for a quick bite.

With educational and interactive displays, the Livingstone Museum offers a perfect blend of learning and fun, ensuring a memorable day out for the whole family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.