Which Livingstone Tours & Things To Do To Choose? We Rank The 16 Best

Livingstone, Zambia, is a hub of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. Its proximity to Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River makes it a natural playground for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting or a quiet game drive, Livingstone offers a diverse menu of tours that cater to different interests.

For instance, a full-day Zambezi whitewater rafting trip promises 23 kilometers of rapid-filled fun, ideal for thrill-seekers, while the Rhino Game Drive provides a more serene encounter with Africa’s iconic animals.

We love how these tours are backed by excellent reviews, often with 5-star ratings, and include practical touches like hotel pickups and photographs. If you’ve ever dreamed of getting close to a white rhino or flying over Victoria Falls, this is your place.

Before diving into the list, let’s set the stage with a quick overview. The best tours in Livingstone span adventure activities such as whitewater rafting and safaris, wildlife experiences including game drives and walking safaris, cultural explorations like bicycle tours, and unique excursions like Victoria Falls helicopter flights.

All of these are designed to show you the best of what this area has to offer, with some tours perfect for adrenaline junkies and others ideal for families or those seeking a more relaxed pace. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.

1. Full Day: Zambezi Whitewater Rafting 1-25

At number 1 on our list, the Full Day Zambezi Whitewater Rafting adventure is a must for thrill-seekers. Covering 23 kilometers of the mighty Zambezi River, this tour includes hotel pickup, transfer, lunch, and post-ride beers, making it a hassle-free day out. Led by an experienced local guide, you’ll navigate some of the world’s most exciting rapids, with highlights like the Batoka Gorge descent.

The company’s safety record is excellent, and their guides are known for sharing insider tips on the best spots for photos and thrills. With an average rating of 5.0/5 from over 200 reviews, this tour is highly praised for its adrenaline and organization.

One recent guest called it “an exhilarating experience” that made them wish they could do it again. Ideal for adventure lovers, this full-day outing offers a perfect mix of excitement and comfort.

Bottom Line: If you want a full day of adrenaline on the Zambezi, this tour delivers. Book early, as it’s popular.

2. Raft the Zambezi

For those seeking the ultimate white-water challenge, Raft the Zambezi is the go-to. With a 5.0/5 rating from over 140 reviews, this full-day tour offers 23 kilometers of rafting through class V rapids, including the famous “Stairway to Heaven.” The trip is suitable for experienced thrill-seekers ready to tackle some of the most intense rapids in the world, with the added bonus of spectacular views of Batoka Gorge. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.

Guests rave about the scenery and the adrenaline rush, with one describing it as “an unforgettable experience.” The guides are professional, and the boat crews are well-trained, ensuring safety even in the most turbulent rapids. Perfect if you’re looking for a high-energy, full-day adventure with plenty of scenic moments.

Bottom Line: For adrenaline junkies, this tour is tough to beat, combining extreme rapids with stunning scenery.

3. Rhino Game Drive

Number 3 is the Rhino Game Drive, which offers a close-up encounter with Zambia’s iconic wildlife. Usually lasting around 3 hours, this tour takes place in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, where your guide helps you spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and possibly the endangered white rhino.

The park’s ecology is fascinating, and many reviewers mention how easy it is to see a variety of animals, often with the chance to see herds of elephants crossing the plains. Bottled water is included, and hotel pickup is available.

One guest called the experience “wonderful,” emphasizing the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat without a zoo setting. This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want a quick, impactful safari experience.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a short but rewarding wildlife sighting, especially if you want to see rhinos up close.

4. Game Drive & Rhino Safari Experience – MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE

Number 4 combines a game drive with a rhino walk, making it one of the most comprehensive wildlife experiences in Livingstone. Over about 3 hours, you’ll explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, searching for elephants, buffalo, and lions, then park to enjoy a picnic by the river.

The highlight is the chance to walk near the white rhinos—a rare opportunity that many reviews highlight as “magical.” The guides are praised for their knowledge and personalized attention. The inclusion of a picnic and the ability to walk with rhinos makes this more than a typical safari.

One reviewer mentioned that their guides “carefully ensured safety,” which is crucial when walking close to wild animals. Suitable for those who want a mix of vehicle safari and close-up wildlife photography.

Bottom Line: Great for wildlife lovers wanting both a game drive and an intimate walk with rhinos, but requires a minimum of two participants.

5. 3 Hour Cultural Bicycle Tour in Livingstone

Number 5 offers a refreshing change with a guided bicycle tour that dives into local culture. Covering about three hours, this tour takes you through Livingstone’s town, villages, and local markets, with opportunities to interact with villagers and learn about daily life. The guide shares stories about traditions and community efforts, such as school projects.

The tour is ideal for travelers wanting an immersive and authentic experience, with reviews praising the personal stories and community connection. Bicycles are suitable for all fitness levels, and hotel pickup can be arranged.

It’s a peaceful way to see the area and learn about the local people, making it perfect for families or cultural enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: A good choice if you want an authentic cultural experience without the adrenaline, emphasizing community connection.

6. Chobe Safari Experience Day Trip – MINIMUM 2 PEOPLE

Number 6 is a full-day safari crossing into Botswana’s Chobe National Park, rated 5.0/5 from 66 reviews. It includes both a morning game drive and an afternoon river safari—a combo that maximizes wildlife sightings.

Expect to see lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo, with plenty of birdlife. The tour includes lunch at a top hotel, with a focus on comfort and a smooth border crossing facilitated by guides.

Travelers love the chance to see the “Big Five” in one day, with many describing it as “well-organized” and “good value.” This tour suits travelers with limited time who can handle a long day but want a broad snapshot of African wildlife.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, full-day wildlife experience perfect for those wanting to see big game and enjoy both land and water safaris.

7. From Victoria Falls: Livingstone Island Tour & Devils Pool

Number 7 is a unique chance to swim in the famous Devil’s Pool at the edge of Victoria Falls. This tour from Zimbabwe offers spectacular views and a chance to experience the falls from a different perspective.

The tour includes a boat ride to Livingstone Island, a bush breakfast, and time to peer over the basalt edge. Rated 4.6/5 from 196 reviews, it’s popular among travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The safety measures and guided nature of the tour make it accessible even for those not comfortable with extreme activities. The views are breathtaking, especially in the early morning when the spray is fresh and the scenery is pristine.

Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers and those wanting a photo-worthy experience at the edge of Victoria Falls.

8. Game Drive and White Rhino Walking Safari in Livingstone

Number 8 combines a game drive with a walking safari focused on white rhinos. Over about 3 hours, you’ll go on a 2-hour game drive followed by a walk to track rhinos, offering incredible photo ops and a close encounter. The tour’s small group size ensures safety and intimacy, and reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are.

The walk near rhinos—an endangered species—is especially memorable, with some guests describing it as “magical” or “the highlight of the trip.” The tour also includes park entry fees, bottled water, and hotel pickup.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wildlife photographers and those wanting a closer look at rhinos in their natural habitat.

9. Rhino Walk

Number 9 is the Rhino Walk, a 1.5-hour adventure that gets you within about 10 meters of white rhinos. Accompanied by armed rangers, you’ll walk with the animals in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, entering the park in a 4×4 vehicle. This tour is favored by guests for its safety and the chance to see rhinos in the wild from a very close distance.

One reviewer called it “the highlight of their trip,” emphasizing how respectful and knowledgeable the guides are. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and eager for a personal wildlife encounter.

Bottom Line: A short but unforgettable walk that provides a rare opportunity to see white rhinos up close and personal.

10. Game Drive in the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park

Number 10 features a 2.5-hour game drive focusing on the rare white rhino, which only the Mosi Oa Tunya Park hosts. The tour includes a walk within the park to see other animals, from elephants to warthogs, and plenty of birdlife. Reviews highlight the proximity to animals and the knowledgeable guides.

It’s an ideal short safari for those wanting to combine wildlife viewing with a flexible schedule. Many mention how their guides helped them with questions and how close they got to the rhinos.

Bottom Line: A compact safari perfect for wildlife lovers short on time but eager for a rich experience.

11. From Livingstone & Victoria Falls: Zambezi Half-Day Rafting

Number 11 offers a half-day rafting adventure on the Zambezi, including paddling over famous rapids like Morning Glory, Stairway to Heaven, and Washing Machine. You’ll hike down basalt rocks into Batoka Gorge and enjoy the thrill of navigating rapid waters, with opportunities to swim in calmer sections.

This tour provides a quick but intense taste of whitewater excitement, perfect for travelers pressed for time or those wanting to combine rafting with other activities.

Bottom Line: Great for a half-day dose of adrenaline and stunning river scenery.

12. Chobe Safari Day Trip From Livingstone

Number 12 is a full-day safari into Chobe National Park in Botswana. Rated 5.0/5 from 37 reviews, it includes game drives and river safaris, increasing your chances to see lions, elephants, hippos, and leopards. Lunch is included, and the border crossing is managed smoothly by guides.

Travelers appreciate the chance to see the Big Five and the variety of wildlife in one seamless day. This tour is best suited for those with a full day available and a desire for a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Bottom Line: An all-in-one safari that combines land and water wildlife sights, ideal for those wanting maximum variety in one day.

13. A Game Drive Plus White Rhino Short Walk

Number 13 joins a game drive with a short walk to see white rhinos in Mosi-oa-Tunya Park. The 3-hour tour offers a chance to see elephants, impalas, giraffes, and buffalo, with the walk providing a close-up view of rhinos. Guests have praised the guides’ expertise and how close they got to the animals.

One review states, “we felt safe the entire time,” highlighting the careful planning and professionalism. It’s perfect for photographers and wildlife lovers wanting both a drive and a walk.

Bottom Line: Combines the best of both worlds—game drive and walking—with a focus on white rhinos.

14. Livingstone Airport Pick up or Drop Off

Number 14 is a convenient airport transfer, rated 5.0/5 from 31 reviews. It takes the stress out of arriving or departing, with professional drivers and bottled water included.

Guests love the punctuality and friendly service—one reviewer noted, “we arrived 45 minutes early and the driver was already waiting.” It’s a practical choice for budget travelers or those arriving late or early in Livingstone.

Bottom Line: Reliable, affordable, and hassle-free transfers to and from the airport.

15. Livingstone: Victoria Falls Helicopter Flights

Number 15 offers a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, rated 4.8/5 from 49 reviews. This flight provides breathtaking aerial views of the falls, Batoka Gorge, and the Zambezi River. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity and a highlight for many visitors.

The duration varies, and prices start at $189 per person. Guests mention how the views are spectacular and that the flight adds a completely new perspective to the falls.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a memorable aerial view of Victoria Falls and the surrounding scenery.

16. Half-Day Nature Walk in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park from Livingstone

Number 16 is a guided nature walk through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, rated 5.0/5 from 26 reviews. Over about three hours, you’ll see animals like giraffes, warthogs, and zebras in their natural habitat. The guide shares insights into plant life and animal behavior, making it engaging for all ages.

Many reviews commend the personalized attention and the chance to photograph wildlife up close. It’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, eco-friendly way to experience Africa’s wildlife.

Bottom Line: An intimate, educational experience perfect for nature lovers and families.

How to Choose: Making the Most of Your Livingstone Experience

Choosing between these tours depends on your priorities. If you crave adventure and adrenaline, the full-day whitewater rafting or Chobe safari are top options. For wildlife enthusiasts, a game drive or rhino walk offers unforgettable sightings, especially in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. For culture and community immersion, the cultural bike tour is ideal.

Those with limited time can opt for shorter activities like the half-day nature walk or rhino walk, while travelers seeking a unique perspective may enjoy the Victoria Falls helicopter flight.

Consider your budget, fitness level, and interest in wildlife or adventure when choosing. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like whitewater rafting and Chobe safaris, to secure your spot.

To sum it up, Livingstone offers a rich variety of tours for all types of travelers. Whether you want an adrenaline rush, close wildlife encounters, or a cultural glimpse, this list covers top-rated experiences. For adventure lovers, the full-day whitewater rafting tours deliver adrenaline and scenic views.

Wildlife fans will find plenty of options, from game drives to rhino walks. And if you’re after a memorable aerial view, the Victoria Falls helicopter flight is hard to beat.

Remember to book well in advance and pick activities that match your interests and fitness level. With so many options, Livingstone ensures a trip full of unforgettable moments.